Yeast Infection - Symptoms Of Vaginal Yeast Infection

Recognizing the symptoms of vaginal yeast infection is actually quite easy. Although, there are other conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, some sexually transmitted diseases, or a reaction to various vaginal products where conditions and symptoms can be similar; usually a women will know when a vaginal infection is developing. Symptoms will begin to appear when the balance between the normal microorganisms of the vagina is lost. This imbalance occurs when the environment of the vagina allows the disproportionate growth of the fungul organism Candida albicans. Candida albicans is the fungal organism that is the most common cause of vaginal infection. Some of the most common, and easily recognizable symptoms of vaginal yeast infection are as follows: * Abnormal vaginal discharge ranging from a white, slightly watery discharge, to a white thick chunky discharge similar to the consistency of cottage cheese * Vaginal and labial itching, and burning that can often be quite severe * Redness and inflammation of the skin surrounding the labia (the opening of the vagina) * Pain during intercourse * Pain, discomfort, or a burning sensation during urination If you are experiencing these symptoms, there is a good chance you have a vaginal infection. If for any reason you are uncertain, visit your gynecologist, or health professional for an accurate diagnosis. A pelvic examination will be performed that may show the inflammation of the skin of the vulva, inside the vagina, and on the cervix. The examination may also show to the examiner, dry white plaque on the vaginal wall. An additional test called a "vaginal smear," may also be taken. This is a test for vaginitis that involves a microscopic evaluation of the vaginal discharge. Vaginitis is an infection of the vagina that does not include the urinary tract. While it is true that mild cases of vaginal yeast infection may, in fact, go away by themselves; it is never wise to take that fact for granted. Should normal efforts of self-medication such as nonprescription vaginal medications offer no relief, your persistent symptoms must be evaluated by your gynecologist. It is also important to keep in mind that self-administered "home treatment" will not be effective should you be pregnant, have a sexually transmitted disease, or if your vaginal yeast infection symptoms are the result of a recurrent infection. Copyright ?2007 Carl DiNello Carl DiNello is an Article Author whose articles are featured on websites covering the Internet's most popular topics. To read more on this topic, please visit Common Infections And Their Symptoms! You may republish this article on your website, or e-zine so long as none of the content, or author information has been edited or changed in any way, and all links are left active and unchanged. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carl_DiNello