Yeast Infection Causes

Yeast infection causes often remain unknown for the layman, however, they can be determined at a careful analysis and then be used not only for treatment but for preventive care as well.

When it comes to skin candidiasis, oral or vaginal thrush, there are medical tests that can confirm the yeast outgrowth. The only form of yeast infection that has no lab exam to diagnose is intestinal candidiasis.

General yeast infection causes

1. Low immune function represents the number one cause for the outgrowth of Candida Albicans. In case you suffer from frequent colds, urinary tract infections or the flu, an yeast infection could be around the corner.

2. A longer treatment with antibiotics destroys the friendly flora on the soft membranes and in the digestive tract, leaving the patient exposed to candidiasis. In order to counter-act this side effect of antibiotics, doctors prescribe the administration of probiotic supplements in parallel.

There are other drugs that may cause yeast infections as an adverse reaction: steroids, for example.

3. Tight clothes that trap sweat could become yeast infection causes. Clothes made of synthetic materials favor the appearance of yeast infections. Bio cotton underwear is the safest when it comes to preventing yeast outgrowth. Keep the skin dry and clean on your feet as well as in skin folds, and areas prone to sweat and moisture: armpits, under the breasts etc.

4. Diet may cause yeast infections or aggravate them. The reverse is also possible, with certain foods bringing yeast infections under control. People with bad eating habits, who binge on junk food, lots of refined carbs (sugar) and caffeine, are more likely to develop candidiasis.

More particular yeast infection causes

Hormonal fluctuations triggered by:

  • puberty,
  • pregnancy,
  • oral contraceptives,
  • pre-menstrual syndrome may become yeast infection causes.

Hormones, estrogen in particular, have an impact on the pH of the soft tissues. Pregnancy, the menstrual cycle and even puberty are marked by more dramatic changes in the level of hormones, hence the imbalance and the favorable environment for candida outgrowth.

Women on hormonal contraceptives could suffer from recurrent yeast infections.

Sexual transmission is possible for candidiasis. If the woman is infected, she will pass it to her partner. Men are generally less affected by yeast infections because of the external anatomy of their genitals, yet, they could develop it too. If one of the partners is diagnosed with yeast infection, both man and woman should follow the prescribed treatment to prevent re-infection.

Contraceptive formulas that contain spermicide also affect the pH of the vagina, not to mention that they kill the friendly bacteria on the linings of the vagina. If you use a sponge, a diaphragm or just spermicides you may be at risk of developing candidiasis.

Chronic ailments that alter the immune function are often accompanied by yeast infections. This is the case with diabetes or HIV. They are not direct yeast infection causes, yet, they go hand in hand.