Post-Hysterectomy Vaginal Issues: Yeast Infections & Prolapse Recurrence

Question
I am 36 years old with two children.  My last menstrual period was a year and a half ago because I had a vaginal hysterectomy due to a uterine prolapse.  I had another surgery approx. 8 months ago because a prolapse occurred again.  My doctor did vaginal and rectal surgery to put everything in its place.  I'm sorry I don't know the name of the surgery, very painful though.  I have recurrent vaginal yeast infections and mostly white, thin discharge all the time.  I have some irritation but especially after intercourse.  The irritation is some burning and swelling and it last for about 4 days.  If I don't clean up immediately after intercourse, the condition is much worse and usually results in a yeast infection.  I have been tested for chlamydia and gonnorhea and have also been on medicine for vaginal dryness.  I believe that vaginal dryness is not a problem.  I am on Premarin 1.25 mg for hormones.  I have been to a couple of doctors for this problem but there's never an explanation and the problem never gets fixed.  Can you please help me?  I am still young and very frustrated because at this point in my life I should be able to enjoy my sex life and can't.  Very frustrated.  Thank you.

Answer
Some women are prone to yeast infections. Candida albicans, the organism that causes yeast infections, lives in the vagina in most women and flares up whenever there is a change in the pH (acid-base) of the vagina. This can be caused by antibiotics, an argument, stress, staying in a wet bathing suit for extended periods of time, etc). The yeast enjoys a dark, moist, warm environment and proliferates in the vagina. You can take medication prophylactically for a yeast infection (Diflucan) or use  antifungal cream (Monistat, etc). Your previous surgery is not causing the yeast infectin.