6 Things Every Woman Should Know About Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are one of the most pesky health problems for women all over the world. In fact, experts say that nearly 75 percent of all women will have a yeast infection at some point in their lives — and even the most mild yeast infection can be intensely aggravating.

What is a yeast infection, anyway?

A yeast infection of the vagina is characterized by itching and burning of the vulva, which is the outer area around the vagina. Ultimately, yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called candida. While women and girls of all ages can get vaginal yeast infections, they are somewhat rarer before puberty and after menopause. According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of yeast infections in women can range from mild to moderate. They can also vary slightly from woman to woman. However, they usually include itching in the vagina and tissues at the vaginal opening, redness and swelling of the vulva, and a thick vaginal discharge.

Although there are plenty of ways to treat yeast infections and to prevent them from happening in the first place, there is still some confusion regarding this common health issue. That’s why it’s important to educate and inform yourself about yeast infections right now. That way, you’ll have a much better chance of keeping your “downstairs” area just as healthy and happy as the rest of you in the future.

Scroll down to learn some important facts about yeast infections that every woman should know.