Yeast is found floating in the air around us. A small amount of yeast is always present on our skin. Yeast likes to grow in warm, dark, and moist spots. The area to the outside opening of the birth canal is called the vulva. It is very sensitive to getting a yeast overgrowth. When this happens it is called yeast vulvitis.

Sometimes yeast will start after a time of illness, especially if antibiotics are being taken. It may begin after an irritation, such as when a douche or perfumed tampon is used. It can even start simply if you have stayed more wet than usual, as with a bathing suit or diaper.

If you have a yeast infection, you will first notice some itching or burning. Sometimes, if you can remove a cause of irritation, it will not continue to trouble you. However, if it continues, you will notice more itching, more discharge, and redness on the skin. At this point, if this is your first yeast infection ever, then see your healthcare provider. You will be examined to make sure yeast is the cause.

Treatment is simply a cream or soft tablet put into the vagina, or female tube, daily for several days. You may want to think if there is anything that could be irritating the problem, such as:
* douching or using perfumed products,
* wearing panty hose or non-cotton panties, or
* taking antibiotics.

If you have only occasional yeast infections, you may find you are able to use the over-the-counter drugs made for yeast with great success. Recurrent yeast infections may be caused by diabetes or other diseases. If the infection seems to happen often, or is severe or does not improve, be sure to call your healthcare provider.

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