You might be wondering why you got stuck with the hellscape that is a yeast infection in the first place. Well, they’re caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans. Yeast is a fungus, and it loves to proliferate in moist and dark places — aka your vagina. Yeast infections can be caused by a number of factors, including your menstrual cycle, antibiotics, pregnancy, and diabetes.
While we’re on the topic of vaginal health: did you know that some women experience pain during sex because of the imbalance of bacteria in the vaginal microbiome? That’s because not all bacteria are created equal; when things get out of whack in the vaginal ecosystem (i.e., there are too many bad guys), it can cause inflammation down there. Such imbalance is a risk factor for both yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis (BV).
So to answer your question, there’s no medical danger to having sex with a yeast infection, but it’s going to hurt bad, real bad. Now before you get any ideas, slow your horse and stick to reading the rest of the article to better understand why you should put your DTF plans on hold during treatment (and for how long).
Early Vaginal Yeast Infection Symptoms
Common early symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include itchiness, burning, and soreness in the vagina and vulva. This can be accompanied by a white discharge that has the consistency of cottage cheese. A patient may experience a thick white discharge that is odorless or have a strong odor, which may indicate a bacterial infection.
Other symptoms can include pain during sex, vaginal redness, and pain when urinating.
If left untreated, a vaginal yeast infection can lead to more serious health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease, urinary tract infections, and recurring yeast infections. It is also important to note that a woman can pass a yeast infection to her sexual partner. It is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis if any of the above symptoms are present. A doctor can prescribe antifungal medications to treat a yeast infection, which will usually resolve the infection within several days.
Do Yeast Infections Go Away on Their Own?
I know you’re hoping for good news and well… the answer is yes and no. In some cases, a yeast infection can go away on its own, especially if it is a mild infection. This is because the body’s natural defenses are able to fight off the infection without the need for treatment. If the infection is mild and not causing any major discomfort, it may be possible to treat it with over-the-counter medications such as creams, ointments, and antifungal tablets. However, if the infection is more severe, then it is advisable to seek medical treatment. Your doctor may prescribe a stronger antifungal medication or even a course of antibiotics.
How Long After Treating a Yeast Infection Can I Have Sex Again?
Look, we get it. Putting sex on hold might not be ideal, but it’s so worth it to wait when you’re prioritizing your vaginal health. It is important to understand that even after treating a yeast infection, there is still a chance of it coming back. While yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections, engaging in sexual activity can spread the infection to your partner. The same goes for engaging in sexual activity with a partner who has recently been treated for a yeast infection; the infection can be passed back and forth.
To ensure that the infection is completely cleared up, it is best to wait at least a week after treatment before engaging in sexual activity. This gives the medication time to do its job and make sure the infection is gone. Once the infection has cleared, it is still important to practice safe sex and take preventative measures to reduce the risk of the infection recurring.
Is a Yeast Infection an STD?
There is a lot of confusion surrounding this topic, as the answer is not quite as clear-cut as one might hope. A yeast infection is not technically considered to be an STD, yet it can be transmitted from one partner to another through sexual contact, as the fungus can be passed from one person to another. It is important to note, however, that this kind of transmission is much less common than the transmission of other STDs.
Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida, which often occurs as a result of an imbalance in the normal bacteria found in the vagina. In some cases, this imbalance could be caused by a sexually transmitted infection, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. The presence of these other infections can create a more suitable environment for Candida to thrive, causing a yeast infection.
In other cases, a yeast infection can also be caused by a compromised immune system. If a person’s immune system is weakened due to another condition, such as HIV/AIDS, they may be more vulnerable to developing a yeast infection. In this case, the yeast infection would not be considered an STD. Just remember it is important to always practice safe sex and get tested regularly for STDs in order to prevent the transmission of yeast infections and other diseases.
How to Prevent Yeast Infections
1. Keep your vaginal area clean and dry. Wearing breathable underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothes can help, as tight clothing and underwear can trap moisture and create a warm, moist environment that is perfect for yeast growth. You should avoid using tight pantyhose, as these tend to cause irritation.
2. Practice good hygiene. Be sure to wash your hands frequently, especially after going to the bathroom, and avoid sharing towels or other personal items. Avoid douching, as it can disrupt maintaining a healthy vaginal pH.
3. Keep your immune system strong. By eating a nutrient-rich diet, taking bladder health supplements, and exercising regularly. Additionally, taking probiotics for vaginal health can help support the balance of good bacteria in the vagina and prevent yeast infections.