An estimated 75 percent of women experience yeast infections at some point in their lives. A yeast infection occurs when the amount of candida normally found in the vagina begins to overgrow to the point of infection--this infection can occur even in young girls. It is important to note that a yeast infection is not a sexually-transmitted disease, nor is it an indicator that a girl is sexually active. The triggers for a yeast infection include hormonal fluctuations, use of certain medications, and other underlying health issues. While it is rare for a young girl who hasn't gone through puberty to get a yeast infection, one still can occur.
What Does a Yeast Infection Feel Like?
Symptoms of a yeast infection include itching or irritation in and around the vagina. Inflammation of the vulva (the vaginal lips) may also be present. Young girls may also complain of a burning sensation when they urinate.
Other Symptoms of Yeast Infection
In addition to symptoms of irritation and burning, yeast infections result in a thick, white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese. Girls who are menstruating may find it painful to use tampons. In some cases, light bleeding may be noted.
What Causes Yeast Infections in Young Girls?
Young girls whose hormonal fluctuations usher them into puberty are more at risk for yeast infections. These typically occur right before a girl gets her menstrual period. Yeast infections can also occur when a young girl has undergone a course of antiobiotic treatment (antiobiotics kill off the healthy bacteria that is needed to keep candida growth in check). Young girls with diabetes are also more at risk for yeast infections, as blood sugar levels play a part in regulating the amount of healthy candida in the body.
How Are Yeast Infections Treated?
Resolving a yeast infection typically takes no more than a week and can be accomplished through the use of over-the-counter creams, such as Monistat, Gyne-Lotrimin and Vagistat. A physician might also prescribe an oral antifungal medication called Diflucan. If this is the first time a young girl has experienced symptoms of a yeast infection, it is important to seek a doctor's consultation, as treating the symptoms without having a definitive diagnosis could lead to further complications.
Preventing Yeast Infections
According to the Mayo Clinic, certain changes in lifestyle can prevent yeast infections in young girls. These may include wearing cotton underwear and avoiding clothing that is too tight. Young girls who are prone to repeated yeast infections are advised to avoid baths, hot tubs and whirlpools and to make sure that soap is rinsed off well from the vaginal area after a shower. Soap with a lot of added fragrance, including deodorant soap, should also be avoided, as should scented tampons and menstrual pads.
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