What causes yeast infections, and how do you get rid of them? - Liesbeth Demuyser | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome, allowing Candida yeasts to multiply and cause symptoms such as itching, burning, and swelling. Antibiotic treatments, lower immunity, hormonal changes, and diet can increase susceptibility to yeast infections. More research is needed to fully understand and address this common issue.

Key Insights

• 🧑‍⚕️ The vagina contains a diverse array of microorganisms, including bacteria and yeasts. Lactobacilli help maintain vaginal health by producing acid and limiting harmful infections.
• ⚖️ Candida albicans is a common cause of vaginal yeast infections, and it can multiply and cause symptoms when the balance within the vaginal microbiome is disrupted.
• 😘 Factors such as antibiotic treatments, lower immunity, hormonal changes, diet, semen, tight clothing, and harsh soaps can increase the risk of developing yeast infections.
• ⚖️ Mild yeast infections can be treated with antifungal medications, while probiotics containing beneficial yeasts show potential in reducing inflammation and maintaining balance.
• 👨‍🔬 Some individuals may have genetic variants that make them more susceptible to recurrent yeast infections, but further research is needed to fully understand the causes.
• 🥺 Vaginal health research is underfunded and often overlooked, leading to gaps in knowledge and understanding.
• ❓ Increased awareness and funding are necessary to improve understanding and treatment options for vaginal yeast infections.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What causes yeast infections in the vagina?

Yeast infections occur when the balance of microorganisms in the vaginal microbiome is disrupted, allowing Candida albicans yeasts to multiply and cause symptoms.

Q: What factors can increase susceptibility to vaginal yeast infections?

Antibiotic treatments, lower immunity, hormonal changes, diet, semen, tight and non-breathable clothing, and the use of harsh soaps can all increase the risk of developing yeast infections.

Q: How are yeast infections treated?

Mild yeast infections can often clear up within two weeks with the use of antifungal medications. Probiotics containing harmless yeasts have shown promise in reducing inflammation and keeping Candida in check. Recurrent or severe infections may require more extensive therapies.

Q: Why is there a lack of research on vaginal health and yeast infections?

Vaginal health topics, including yeast infections, have historically received less funding and attention. Stigma and gender bias may also play a role in the lack of research in the field.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The vagina is home to various microorganisms, including Lactobacilli and Candida yeasts.

• Candida albicans, a species of yeast, can cause vaginal thrush or yeast infections.

• Imbalances in the vaginal microbiome, due to factors like pH changes and decreased competition, can lead to Candida multiplying and causing infections.