** you do not have permission to see this link **(candida-type of yeast) infections are very common: 3 out of 4 women have at least one in a lifetime. Symptoms include intense itching, redness, burning, swelling, and white discharge of the vagina, or vaginal opening. Treatment is using OTC (over the counter) creams and suppositories or prescription tablets.

Eating yogurts with active cultures (probiotics) may also help treat and prevent.

Q: What is a yeast infection-can it be caused by sex?

The vagina has a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast. The "healthy," bacteria helps balance the growth of yeast. If the balance changes by having too little bacteria or too much yeast, then can cause a yeast infection.

This is common when taking antibiotics (decreasing healthy vaginal bacteria), changes in hormone levels, during high times of stress, and can be seen with douching and vaginal deodorants.

In terms of sex, a yeast infection is not categorized as a "sexually transmitted disease," or STD but the risk for a yeast infection goes up with regular sexual activity and can rarely be passed from person to person and may be linked to mouth and genital contact.

Q: How do I know it is a yeast infection and not something more serious?

It is always good to be checked out by a health care professional. It is usually diagnosed by exam and culture, but important as other conditions can have the same symptoms.

The most common other cause for itching and redness is bacterial vaginosis (too many bacteria). This is the number one vaginal infection in women. It is important to know the difference since the treatment is different and usually requires an oral antibiotic.

Another is trichomoniasis which is a STD caused by a parasite not yeast and needs to be treated with an oral antibiotic.

Q: Once I know it is a yeast infection, how do I fix it?

Treatment is with over-the-counter creams or suppositories for 1 to 7 days depending on the package instructions, or a dose of oral anti-fungal medication prescribed by your doctor or practitioner.

This usually cures the infection but if not, you may need an extra course of treatment or be placed on weekly maintenance therapy.

Q: How do I prevent my next yeast infection?

Not easy as the average woman has more than one yeast infection in her lifetime and those with weakened immune systems and diabetes are at higher risk.

To prevent yeast overgrowth, consider dietary changes by adding yogurt to your diet or taking probiotics, such as, Lactobacillus acidophilus supplements (keeps the yeast from growing out of control), good hygiene by keeping vaginal skin dry, wearing cotton underwear, use of unscented tampons and water based sexual lubricants, and if diabetic keeping blood sugar under control.

If you have questions or need advice, please AskDoctorH below. I am here to help.