Dear diamond45,

Many healthy women have a small amount of a certain kind of yeast called candida in their vaginas, regardless of whether they are sexually active. When yeast in the vagina overgrows, a yeast infection develops, often leaving a vaginal discharge and/or an intense itching around the vagina and vulva.

A yeast infection can develop because of

• certain antibiotics
• diabetes
• drugs that slow the immune system (like cortisone)
• immune deficiency
• normal hormonal changes (some women)
• pregnancy

You can help prevent a vaginal yeast infection by

• Keeping the area around the genitals as dry as possible.
• Washing your vulva regularly with mild soap and water.
• Rinsing well and drying thoroughly after washing.
• Letting towels dry between uses.
• Not sharing towels.
• Avoiding sitting around in a wet bathing suit.

If you think you may have a yeast infection, it's important to get a diagnosis from a health care provider. Your provider will recommend a treatment. To make an appointment at a Planned Parenthood health center, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

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.