At least 75% of women will get a yeast infection at some point in their lives. For most women who understand what it is and have had it in the past, they can treat it. But for many, there is still some uncertainty and myths surrounding thrush, and the following should help dispel some of these myths to help you better understand what it is and some proven ways to treat thrush or yeast infection.

Firstly, what is a yeast infection?

Yeast infections, according to the Mayo Clinic, are a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva — the tissues at the vaginal opening. These infections are caused by Candida, which usually lives on the skin and inside the body, such as in the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina, without causing any problems. Candida can cause an infection if conditions change inside the vagina to encourage its growth. Things like hormones, medicines, or changes in the immune system can make infection more likely. The common term for candidiasis in the vagina is a vaginal yeast infection.

What are the common symptoms of vaginal yeast infection?

Women will find that common symptoms of vaginal yeast infections include burning, itching, and thick, white discharge in the vagina. If you notice this, go to your GP as soon as possible to see the issue. Most yeast infections are treatable with a boric acid suppository that can be bought online here at Pinc Wellness.

Will sex cause a yeast infection? In short, yes. But let's make a critical point clear: a yeast infection is not an STD; it's far from it. It's best to stop having sex while you have a yeast infection, as it's possible to transfer the infection through sex, and it is one of the more common ways for a person to get a yeast infection. In some cases, regular sex can disrupt the normal bacterial environment of the vagina, which usually prevents an overgrowth of the fungus that causes yeast infections. This balance can lead to a yeast infection when thrown off due to sex.

Only women can get yeast infections. It's way more common for women to get a yeast infection, but men can still get it through sex. Women of all ages can get a vaginal yeast infection, with more than 50% of women having vaginal thrush more than two times in their life. So, if this is the first time you've got thrush, the trick here is not to panic as it is treatable, and there are solutions out there online where you can purchase vaginal thrush treatments.

You only get a yeast infection on or just outside the vagina. You can get a yeast infection in other parts of your body; on your feet, in your mouth, under your breasts, or on your breasts–which is especially true for women who are breastfeeding, or on your bottom, being close to the vagina which is most common when the vagina is already infected.

Having a yeast infection means a person is unclean. Definitely not. Just because you have a yeast infection does not have any reflection on your hygiene habits, as a yeast infection can happen due to other extenuating circumstances outside your control. Yes, keeping your vagina and surrounding areas clean is an essential first step to alleviate infections but remember, other factors can go into you getting a yeast infection. A good tip is to wash your body regularly with unscented soap.

Can your diet affect the chances of you getting a yeast infection? Maintaining a healthy diet and keeping your immunity up can help prevent you from getting a yeast infection. Avoid overeating sugar or processed foods and choose healthy options like fruit, vegetables and oily fish.

You can't cure a yeast infection. Curing a yeast infection is 100% possible by going to the doctor and getting treatment or buying our proven thrush and bacterial vaginosis boric acid suppository treatments from Pinc Wellness. We provide effective remedies for vaginal infections, offering safe and natural solutions that will help rebalance your vaginal pH effectively. 

Sarah