STD Information: Yeast Infection

Yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is caused by a yeast overgrowth which disrupts normal vaginal flora.  Certain yeast (candida) normally live in the vagina in relatively low numbers without causing a problem.

• Symptoms: burning &/or itching of the vulva, vagina; thick white discharge with cottage cheese appearance; possible yeasty odor.
  
• Transmission  WTW: unknown, but not considered an STD in heterosexual couples.  
  
• Treatment: anti-fungal creams, suppositories, or oral anti-fungals (tablets).
  
• Note: While recurrent or difficult-to-treat yeast vaginitis usually occurs in completely healthy women, occasionally it may be indicative of diabetes (undiagnosed or uncontrolled), HIV infection, or genital herpes, and should be fully evaluated — consult your healthcare provider. Sometimes yeast infections can be mistaken for allergic vaginitis, so recurrent yeast infections should be evaluated by a health care provider.

Please note that for the purpose of our web site we are focusing primarily on woman to woman transmission (WTW) and only providing a general overview of the infections themselves. You may want to check out our Bibliography and Links sections for more in depth information or contact us with specific questions through STD Q&A's.