Questions and Answers on Vaginal Yeast Infections


Questions and Answers on Vaginal Yeast Infections

CDC NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE TRAINING BULLETIN #9 - June 6, 1992
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

These are answers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to questions concerning vaginal yeast infections and AIDS.

1. What causes vaginal yeast infections?

Recurrent vaginal yeast infections are relatively common in the general population. The vagina normally has a mixture of two kinds of germs called bacteria and yeast. Under certain conditions, the yeast in the vagina can grow too much--causing vaginal itching. In some women, the conditions that allow the yeast to grow too much can be non-serious conditions, including, for example, hormonal changes (use of birth control pills or menstrually related) or taking antibiotics. However, in women with frequently recurrent vaginal yeast infections, especially infections that don't clear up easily with treatment, the vaginal yeast infections may be the result of pregnancy or more serious conditions such as diabetes or infection with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

2. Are vaginal yeast infections a symptom of AIDS?

In women who have been infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, HIV may be the cause of recurrent vaginal Infections. Recurrent vaginal yeast infections, especially infections that don't clear up easily with treatment, can be an early sign of HIV infection.

3. If I have recurrent vaginal yeast infections, what should I do?

If you are experiencing vaginal infections frequently (they recur within a two month period) or if you have infections that do not clear up easily with treatment, you should see your doctor promptly to determine the cause and to receive proper medical care. You could be pregnant or there could be a serious underlying medical cause for your infections, including diabetes or infection with HIV.

4. Who can I contact for more information on yeast infections and AIDS?

The CDC National AIDS Hotline (1-800-342-AIDS) has trained information specialists to answer questions or provide referrals on HIV infection and AIDS.

Keywords: Women. Symptoms.

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Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeard in 1992. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
©1992. AEGIS.