Menopause and Yeast Infections

With the drop of estrogen levels during menopause, the walls of your vagina
become thinner and weak.

Caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a fungus, yeast infections are
the most common of all vaginal infections. Yeast infections are not sexually
transmitted and are often caused by menopause. Of all vaginal infections,
yeast infections are one of the main symptoms of menopause, caused by the
fluctuating hormones leading to bacteria in the vagina going out of control.
Baths, excess moisture in the vagina, or damp or tight clothes may lead to
yeast infections. The signs of yeast infection during menopause, as well as
otherwise, are: inflammation, continued itching and irritation, pain during
intercourse, frequent urination, and a thick, white discharge from your
vagina.

With the drop of estrogen levels during menopause, the walls of your vagina
become thinner and weak. During intercourse, the walls become irritated,
leaving tiny scars and scratches, enabling bacteria to thrive. Higher levels of
estrogen, due to hormone replacement therapy (HRT), also increase the
chance of yeast infections. Damp and moist vagina, due to increased vaginal
discharge caused by higher levels of estrogen, is a great breeding ground for
yeast and bacteria.

Menopause, Yeast Infections and Treatment
Yeast infections can be treated by OTC (Over-The-Counter) medication in
the form of creams and suppositories. Before using these medications, it is
always advisable to have a proper diagnosis of yeast infections.
Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, and other types of vaginal
infections have symptoms similar to yeast infections. This makes it imperative
to confirm that you actually have yeast infection before starting medication.
Although creams and suppositories are sold as OTC medications, you will
need prescription for oral medicines.

Before resorting to strong medications, you could try the following alternate
treatments for yeast infections:

¡¤ Tea Tree Oil: Seek professional advice before trying this
treatment. Tea tree oil suppositories kill yeast infections present in
the vagina.
¡¤ Yogurt: Many women suffering from yeast infections apply
un-pasteurized yogurt, which contains lactobacillus acidophilus or
'good' bacteria, directly into the vagina. You could use a small
spoon, a spatula or an old vaginal cream applicator, to apply
yogurt at night for three to seven nights to restore the balance of
bacteria in your vagina. You may need to put on a sanitary pad to
avoid messiness.

Avoiding Yeast Infections
Yeast infections, unfortunately, tend to recur. To prevent
recurrence, or to prevent having it in the first place, you could try
the following:

¡¤ During shower, wash the vaginal area to keep it clean, and
completely dry it before dressing.
¡¤ Cotton panties and pantyhose with a cotton crotch are
preferable.
¡¤ Do not share towels.
¡¤ Undergarments should be washed in hot water and avoid
using softeners.
¡¤ After a swim or a workout, change your clothes
immediately.
¡¤ Do not use scented sanitary pads or tampons, and
frequently change them.
¡¤ Avoid douching, using heavily scented soaps, perfumes and
talcum powders.
¡¤ During sex, ensure your vagina is well lubricated, and use
water-soluble lubricating jells.
¡¤ It is better to avoid sex, if it is painful.

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