Candida albicans is found in human populations all over the world. It lives in the vagina, on the skin, in the mouth, in the digestive tract, etc and normally does not cause any problems.
Body areas like the vagina have several microorganisms that live in it. Symptoms of yeast infection occur when the population of Candida albicans becomes disproportionately large in relation to other microorganisms.
This happens because conditions in the vagina favor this particular microorganism, at that point in time. For instance, a course of antibiotics meant to target an entirely different problem may end up killing off some kinds of vaginal microorganisms that are anti-fungal in nature. This allows the Candida albicans population to multiply unchecked, which results in a yeast infection.
Higher levels of estrogen can cause infection too. This can happen during pregnancy or in women who are on birth control pills.
In addition, diabetics are known to have a higher risk of developing yeast infections. People with immune system diseases like HIV may also be at risk.
In most cases, the symptoms go away after treatment. However, chronic or repeat infections do occur in some people.
You can prevent yeast infections to an extent by using common sense measures:
- Ensure that your underwear or pantyhose has cotton crotches.
- In general, avoid overly tight-fitting clothing on the genital area.
- If you exercise regularly, make sure you change sweat-soaked clothing after you finish the exercise session.
- Do not wear wet bathing suits for long periods of time.
- Wash bathing suits and exercise clothing thoroughly after each use. Do not reuse them without washing.
