Debunking six myths about yeast infections

There are a lot of myths about yeast infections. Our San Antonio OBGYNs want you to know the truth, so that you can seek treatment and get relief from the itching, burning and pain that vaginal yeast infections cause.

What are vaginal yeast infections?

Overgrowth of a fungus called candida albicans causes yeast infections. These infections cause burning, itching, redness and swelling in the vagina and vulvar region. They can also cause a burning pain when you urinate or have sex, and a vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese. Yuck, right?

Our docs want you to know the truth. If you believe the myths, you might not get the relief and the treatment you need.

Dispelling the myths about yeast infections

Our San Antonio OBGYNs chose six myths about yeast infections, so that we can provide the facts and set the record straight.

Myth #1. Sex causes yeast infections.

Having sex doesn’t cause infections, unless your sexual partner has a yeast infection. Yeast infections are not sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, but they can spread between sexual partners in some cases.

Myth #2. If you use a laptop for too long, you might get a yeast infection.

Laptop computers and other devices get blamed for a lot of things. Some people say they cause yeast infections if you use them for an extended period and get a sweaty lap. A damp vaginal area can cause infections, but there’s no evidence of laptops causing that.

Myth #3. You can treat the infection with creams for vaginal itching.

Vaginal itching cream only helps with itching, but won’t treat the infection. You need an over-the-counter product that contains miconazole, or a prescription that contains fluconazole.

Myth #4. Swimming pools cause yeast infections.

Simply swimming in a pool or body of water won’t cause a yeast infection. Sitting around for a long time in a wet swimsuit might.

Myth #5. Eating yogurt keeps you from getting infections.

This is one of the most common myths about yeast infections, but there is no solid evidence that eating yogurt stops infections or balances your vagina’s bacteria.

Myth #6. You can’t prevent yeast infections.

Nothing can absolutely stop you from getting vaginal yeast infections, but you can take steps to prevent them.

• Don’t use scented douches, sprays, pads or tampons.
• Don’t wear tight clothes or underwear.
• Don’t sit around in wet or sweaty clothes.
• If you’re diabetic, keep your blood sugar as controlled as possible.

Get the correct diagnosis and the treatment you need from our San Antonio OBGYNs

Believing the myths about yeast infections can cause you unnecessary problems. Don’t mess around with hearsay. Call our San Antonio OBGYNs, and get the relief you want and need. Contact us for an appointment.