When the vagina becomes itchy, some women may suspect that she has acquired sexually transmitted disease or STDs. The good news with it is that, this is not always the case. Itchy vagina does not always spell STDs but one can have an infection called vaginal yeast infection.

Vaginal yeast infection can cause troubles to a woman as it is a very uncomfortable infection. Symptoms of vaginal yeast infection are vaginal itching, vaginal burning, vaginal irritation, painful urination; painful sexual intercourse and odorless vaginal discharge (may be thick whitish-gray and cottage-cheese-like or may be watery in consistency).

This infection should not be misinterpreted however into sexually transmitted disease. Since yeast is normally found on human skin especially on moist areas, the reason for the occurrence of this infection is the imbalance of the hormones in the body that may have caused the yeast cells to overgrow than what is normal. Yeast cell overgrowth may also be brought on by substances such as the chlorine in swimming pools, nylon underwear, douching and even scented toilet paper, all of which can irritate the vaginal area.

Unless you have been diagnosed previously for yeast infection, you should not self-treat vaginal yeast infection. It is necessary that a doctor examines your condition so as to determine rightfully if it is indeed yeast infection of the vagina and not a sexually transmitted disease. This is so since symptoms of the said infection are also similar with other STDs.

To minimize to possibility of the yeast infection of the vagina, here are some of the ways that a woman should take note:

1. Cotton panties are always best and have breathability to help prevent yeast infections.

2. Wiping from front to back after a bowel movement to prevent the yeast which normally inhabits the intestinal tract from being transferred to the vaginal area.

3. A round of antibiotics to treat other problems can bring on a yeast infection in most women. Eating one cup of yogurt a day helps some women prevent this particular problem however; eating yogurt will not cure a yeast infection

To treat vaginal yeast infection, a single dose of fluconazole (Diflucan) tablet can cure most vaginal yeast infections and has become a popular option for women that have frequent and recurring yeast infections. Nonetheless, it does not save you from going to the doctor as this still requires a prescription.

Vaginal yeast infection should never be feared. It could be treated effectively if it has been diagnosed rightly. See your doctor when the mentioned symptoms manifest and free yourself from worries.