What are the causes of vaginal yeast infections?

What are the causes of vaginal yeast infections?

Vaginal yeast infections caused by imbalances in levels of yeast (candida) in and around the vaginal area, relative the level of normally occurring protective bacteria. Yeast is a type of fungus that thrives in moist warm environments like the vagina. The naturally occurring acids and bacteria in the vagina typically moderate the level of yeast that is able to develop. However yeast can over-develop and irritate the vulvar tissue when the balance of bacteria and acidic levels in the vaginal area are disturbed by such things as:

Menstruation

Pregnancy

Weakened immune system (whether caused by infections such as HIV or drug induced)

Antibiotics (taken to treat other infections such as urinary tract infections)

Oral contraceptives

Feminine hygiene products (which washes away protective bacteria)

Diabetes (elevated of sugar in the blood)

Sexual intercourse (yeast infections are not considered a STD, however sexually active women are at higher risks of developing a vaginal yeast infection)