Part 1 – What You Need to Know About UTIs & Yeast Infections
An infection or discomfort in your vaginal area can bring your sex life to a screeching halt. It’s important to seek medical attention and refrain from sexual activity until you feel 100% better. Allow us to shed some light about two common imbalances in the body – UTIs and yeast infections:
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Your body’s renal system – also called the urinary system – plays a vital role in eliminating waste. Your urethra is part of your body’s renal system; it is a tubelike structure that drains urine from your bladder. If bacteria enter your urethra and travels to the bladder, a urinary tract infection will likely occur. Once in the bladder, the bacteria multiply which may cause inflammation, bleeding, and pain. It is vital to seek medical attention when you notice UTI symptoms, as a UTI can damage your kidneys if it is left untreated.
No one wants to deal with UTI pain or a trip to the emergency room, so prevention is key! First, it’s important to know the three common ways that bacteria may enter your urethra:
- Improper hygiene
- Sexual contact
- Pre-existing bladder condition
Prevent UTIs from forming by implementing proper hygiene – wipe front to back, pee before and immediately after intercourse, and shower after sex if possible.
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections form when your body fails to keep yeast-like fungus from multiplying and spreading. There are two main types of fungus that grow in your body – Candida or Monilia. At normal levels, this fungus will not cause discomfort or symptoms. However, the following circumstances may cause this fungus to multiply and create a yeast infection:
- You are pregnant.
- You are taking antibiotics, hormones, or contraception pills.
- You have diabetes or immunity-weakening illnesses.
- You have intercourse with someone who has a yeast infection.
- You use chemical soap to wash your vagina.
- You wear tight, non-cotton underwear.
Yeast infections are not life-threatening like UTIs, but they can be very uncomfortable and require medical attention. If you feel vaginal itchiness, a burning sensation, cottage cheese-like discharge, or pain during sex, allow our nurse practitioner to diagnose and prescribe treatment for relief!