QuestionHi,
I am 21 years old and over the past 3 months I have had what I think are recurring yeast infections. Relatively mild, Itching, burning with increased discomfort at night. I used one treatment of the Monistat 3 day treatment, which gave me complete relief for about two months and just recently it came back, I did a one day treatment of Monistat and it seems it has come back again about 3 wks later. What could be causing this? I've never had one before- haven't changed anything as of late, except I recently got off birth control (was on it for acne related issues for about 6 months, skipping one month)
AnswerHi Angela,
Yeast infections are very common and there are many causes. Stress, diet (lots of carbs and sugar), hormonal changes (including going on or off the birth control), and restrictive clothing, are just some of the causes of yeast infections. It is also possible that it is some other type of infection, such as bacterial, which requires antibiotics. Another possibility is irritation due to detergents, soaps, dyes. Have you started wearing new clothing, or washing your clothes or yourself with new detergents or soaps? You say the only thing you have changed was stopping the birth control, which could be a possible cause if it is a yeast infection.
It is recommended that women who have never had a yeast infection before contact their doctor for an appointment. I think this is a good idea for you since it is a recurring symptom. Your doctor will be able to diagnose whether it is a yeast infection or something else, and will guide you towards proper treatment. He/she will also help you understand how to recognize yeast infections, so if it occurs again you can use OTC meds with no need for an appt.
I hope this helps. If you have further questions let me know.
-Mia
