What is a vaginal yeast infection?

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

Vulvovaginal candidiasis more commonly known as vaginal yeast infection, is a condition where the vulva (the exterior female organs which includes the labia, clitoris and the entrance to the vagina), becomes inflamed and irritated when the level of yeast (candida) increases relative to normally occurring protective bacteria in the vaginal region. 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 the balance of bacteria and acidic levels in the vaginal area can be disturbed by such things as menstruation, pregnancy, drugs that suppress the immune system, antibiotics, oral contraceptives and feminine hygiene products which allows for an environment for yeast to thrive.

Vaginal yeast infections are very common amongst women and are not considered to a sexually transmitted disease. However it is possible that a man can develop symptoms of skin irritation on the penis after having sexual contact with a partner suffering from a yeast infection.