Dear dumbtee,

Yeast infections (also called candidiasis) are an overgrowth of bacteria that cause vaginal irritation or vaginitis. All healthy women have yeast in their vaginas, but sometimes this yeast grows too much. Symptoms of a yeast infection include a thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge and itching, irritation, and redness of the vulva and the opening of the vagina.

Yeast infections must be diagnosed and treated by a clinician. There are over-the-counter medications available for women who have had professional guidance about how to recognize and be sure of the symptoms. Otherwise, it is necessary to meet with a clinician because it is easy for a woman to think she has a yeast infection when she may really have a more dangerous infection or condition.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.