If you have ever suffered from yeast infections, you know how frustrating they can be. Symptoms such as itching, burning, and irritation, create a lot of discomfort, and are usually treated with medications. While these infections are generally infrequent, there are some women who have them far more often than other women. So what is the reason for recurrent yeast infections?
Diagnosis for recurrent yeast infection
Recurrent yeast infections are an indication that there has been a change in the normal micro-flora of the vagina, resulting in secretions that are contributing to the growth of yeast or that provide a milieu more conducive to yeast growth.
The vagina has 30+ different types of bacteria, but it is usually dominated by healthy bacteria known as lactobacilli. These bacteria make hydrogen peroxide which inhibits yeast growth. When there is a shift in the balance of micro-flora and the lactobacilli are suppressed in numbers, there can be an overgrowth of other bacteria whose presence is more conducive to yeast growth.
How is recurrent yeast treated successfully
In order to treat the yeast infection, it is necessary to identify the vaginal constituents, and customize a plan to restore balance. This requires the use of advanced diagnostic tools that many gynecologists don’t invest in. Most gynecologists that recognize yeast in the vagina treat the yeast with anti-fungals. This causes a transient relief of symptoms. Unless the underlying reason for the increased propensity for yeast to grow is treated, the yeast will return.
At Fowler Gyn International, located in Phoenix, AZ, we have the necessary equipment on hand to perform the relevant testing. The Vaginal Fluid Analysis (VFA) test is done to identify and quantitate the vaginal constituents. The results are matched against the profile of the healthy vaginal micro-flora, so as to identify any abnormalities. Treatment involves a combination of medications to bring proper nutrients back to the vagina and push the flora pattern back towards one of the normal patterns.
Call FGI today at (480) 420-4001 to schedule a consultation, or go online to fowlergyninternational.com/contact-us to request a pre-registration call.