Yeast infections are incredibly common with up to 75% of women experiencing this infection at least once in their lifetime. But how do they actually happen?

At the core of it all is Candida, a type of fungus that naturally lives in small amounts in your vagina, mouth, and digestive tract. Normally, it exists in harmony with beneficial bacteria that help keep everything balanced. But when this balance is disrupted—whether due to hormonal shifts, antibiotics, or lifestyle changes—Candida can multiply, leading to an infection. The most common culprit? Candida albicans, responsible for up to 90% of yeast infections. Other strains, like C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei, can also overgrow and cause similar symptoms.

When good bacteria are outnumbered, Candida has the perfect opportunity to thrive. This imbalance can happen for a variety of reasons, and once it does, symptoms often follow, including:

Persistent itching and irritation

A burning sensation, especially during urination or sex

Redness and swelling of the vulva

Thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese

4 Common Causes of Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are often triggered by factors that disrupt the natural balance of your vaginal microbiome—an environment that’s never truly static. It’s always shifting in response to internal and external changes, which can sometimes give Candida the chance to overgrow. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common reasons:

Antibiotics

While antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial infections, they also disrupt the natural balance of your vaginal microbiome. They act as a broad sweep, eliminating both harmful and beneficial bacteria—including the lactobacilli that help prevent Candida overgrowth.

Antibiotics are one of the most common triggers of yeast infections, with studies consistently showing a strong link between their use and Candida proliferation. When Candida is already present in the vaginal microbiome, antibiotics can tip the balance in its favor, creating the perfect conditions for an infection to take hold.

A Weakened Immune System

The vaginal immune system is uniquely designed to protect against infections, with its mucosal lining, beneficial bacteria like lactobacilli, and specialized immune cells all working together as a first line of defense. Beneficial bacteria play a crucial role by producing lactic acid, which keeps the vaginal pH in an acidic range of 3.8 to 4.5, creating an environment that discourages Candida from overgrowing.

When this balance is disrupted, Candida can seize the opportunity to multiply. Whether from illness, certain medications, or other stressors, a weakened system comprises the support needed to maintain harmony in your vaginal microbiome.

Hormonal fluctuations

Estrogen can play a significant role in triggering vaginal yeast infections by disrupting the balance between yeast and good bacteria. When estrogen levels rise, it increases the production of glycogen in the vaginal walls. Glycogen, a type of sugar, provides extra fuel for Candida, encouraging its overgrowth and increasing the risk of infection.

These hormonal fluctuations can also impact vaginal pH and your body’s natural immune defenses. When the balance shifts, it makes it harder for the body to keep Candida under control.

Yeast infections are more common in times of high estrogen, such as during pregnancy, certain phases of the menstrual cycle, or while using birth control pills. Even in perimenopause and postmenopause, patients taking hormonal therapy may experience more frequent yeast infections due to the effects of estrogen.

Sex isn’t a direct cause of yeast infections, but it can certainly create conditions that allow them to develop. Semen, for instance, is alkaline and can interfere with your vaginal pH, making it easier for Candida to grow.

Penetration can sometimes cause small tears or irritation in the vaginal lining, which can give yeast the opportunity to thrive, particularly if there’s already a slight imbalance. Even the products you use during sex, like certain lubricants or condoms, can contribute if they contain ingredients that irritate or disrupt your vaginal environment.

In some cases, yeast infections can also be transmitted between partners. If vaginal fluids are exchanged, there's a small risk of transmitting yeast infections. Men can get a penile yeast infection and pass it on to their female partners if they have unprotected sex with an active yeast infection.

How to Treat a Yeast Infection?

Treating a yeast infection starts with your healthcare provider, who can recommend the right course of action—whether that’s an antifungal cream, suppository, or oral medication. These treatments effectively clear the infection but can also impact the balance of your vaginal microbiome.

After treatment, it’s essential to focus on restoring balance. A vaginal suppository with lactobacilli can help reintroduce the flora that keeps your microbiome healthy, while a moisturizing gel with lactic acid helps maintain the acidic pH that protects against future overgrowth. Together, these steps support recovery and strengthen your vaginal defenses.

With the right aftercare, you can promote long-term health and reduce the risk of recurring infections. Taking a proactive approach ensures your microbiome stays supported, even after treatment.

FAQ

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

Persistent itching and irritation

A burning sensation, especially during urination or sex

Redness and swelling of the vulva

Thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese

How do I know if I have a yeast infection?

Symptoms of a yeast infection can overlap with those of other conditions, like bacterial vaginosis (BV), making it difficult to know for sure on your own.

The best way to confirm is to see your healthcare provider. They can perform an exam or take a sample to determine if Candida is the cause or if another condition is behind your symptoms. An accurate diagnosis ensures you get the right treatment and effective relief. While you're working with your provider, you can also find symptom relief with our gentle, homeopathic vaginal suppository. It's designed to soothe irritation and relieve itching, burning, and abnormal discharge associated with yeast overgrowth. Formulated with boric acid, a proprietary probiotic blend, and clinically recognized homeopathic ingredients like Borax, Kreosotum, Pulsatilla, Natrum Phosphoricum, Nitricum Acidum, and Sepia, it supports the body’s natural healing process and promotes a balanced vaginal microbiome.

If you think you might have a yeast infection, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional—it’s the best step for your health and comfort.