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Yeast Infection Symptoms & UTI Comparison: A Helpful Guide


Question
QUESTION: My name is Emily. I'm 14 years old. What are symptoms of a yeast infection. Cause I think I might have one.


Do they have the same symptoms of a uti and can sex pass them on


Hope you can answer these questions for me

ANSWER: Dear Emily,

I answered this quest about one week ago, but somehow, I do not think it was posted.
A yeast infection can give the same symptoms as a UTI, because the urethra, the hole where the urine comes out of, is located just inside the vaginal canal. Signs of a yeast infection include itching, burning, and a thick which clumpy discharge. The discharge is similar to the consistency of cottage cheese. There is not usually an abnormal odor associated with it. If you have a foul odor, you may have a vaginal infection, but not from yeast. That type of infection requires an appointment with your physician.

It is not usually passed on through sexual intercourse; however, if your partner had sexual relations with someone with an active yeast infection, did not bathe himself, then had sexual relations with you, you could get the yeast infection.

Yeast infections are usually a result of hormonal changes that occur just prior to getting your menses. Another cause of a yeast infection is antibiotic use. The antibiotic is used to kill the bacteria causing the infection; but will kill the "good" bacteria as well. The "good" bacteria is known as the normal flora that we all have. Normal flora keeps everything in check. If one thing is out of balance, it allows other organisms to grow and cause vaginitis.

If you have never had a yeast infection, I would recommend that you make an appointment with your healthcare provider. If you have had one in the past, and know the symptoms, you can buy cream over the counter at your local pharmacy. Follow the directions on the package. There is a prescription medication for yeast infections that is taken by mouth. You will need a prescription from your healthcare provider. The medication is called fluconazole. One pill generally cures it. Good luck!

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QUESTION: oh okay ive been on antibiotis before how long does one have to take antibiotics until they get a yeast infection

Answer
Dear Emily,

When the pH in the vagina is disturbed or changed, yeast can grow more rapidly that usual. Tight clothes, menstruation and a high sugar diet are just a few reasons that can perpetuate an excessive amount of yeast to grow and take over the balance. If any of these things are currently occurring and you start an antibiotic for a bacterial infection such as strep throat, a yeast infection can begin after only a couple of days.

The best defense is to eat yogurt three times a day while take an antibiotic. Yogurt carries a live culture, actually a living organism. It is called Lactobacillus. It maintains pH balance in the entire body, as well as the vaginal mucosa.
Hope this helps!