Yeast infections can recur or become chronic if the bacteria in your vagina are imbalanced or if you have a weakened immune system. Certain practices may help prevent them.
While yeast infections can happen to anyone at any age, certain factors can increase your chances of them recurring.
This article reviews the causes of chronic yeast infections and the steps you can take to manage and prevent them.
Recurring yeast infections are those that happen
Chronic yeast infections can occur if conditions in the body are favorable for yeast overgrowth. An overgrowth of Candida causes most cases of yeast infections. This type of yeast is naturally present in our bodies.
The following sections examine potential causes of yeast overgrowth and yeast infections.
An imbalance in vaginal bacteria
In the vagina, chronic yeast infections can happen when there’s an imbalance or variation in vaginal bacteria. These bacteria normally help keep Candida from overgrowing. An imbalance or variation can happen if bacteria are removed via antibiotics or vaginal douching.
It’s crucial to have a balance of healthy microorganisms in the body. Probiotic supplements or foods like yogurt with active cultures may help.
Although probiotics aren’t a proven treatment for yeast infections, they may help to promote healthy vaginal bacteria when used alongside prescription antifungal medications such as fluconazole.
Damp or humid environments
Candida yeast tends to thrive in wet, humid conditions. Living in a humid environment, constantly sweating, and wearing damp clothing can contribute to yeast or fungal growth. It may be helpful to wear cotton underwear and breathable fabrics.
A lack of regular hygiene practices, such as daily showers and brushing your teeth, or a constantly damp environment, can also lead to chronic yeast infections.
A weakened immune system
You’re also at risk of recurring yeast infections if you have a weakened immune system. The following can weaken your immune system:
- age
- some medications
- certain health conditions
The initial yeast infection wasn’t completely cleared
If your yeast infection didn’t respond to the first course of treatment, your doctor may prescribe long-term antifungals. This may include weekly oral or vaginal medications for up to
Transmitting the infection back and forth
Candida infections can happen on other areas of skin and in the mouth. They can spread via skin-to-skin contact. This is most common between breastfeeding moms and their babies.
The key to preventing recurring transmissions is to ensure that both mom and baby are completely cured of yeast infections.
Sexual activity
While not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it’s possible to pass yeast infections back and forth between sexual partners.
Wearing condoms and dental dams can help, especially if you or your partner has recurring yeast infections. You can also shower after intercourse (but don’t douche) to keep Candida at bay.
Drug-resistant strains of yeast
While rare, a species of yeast that’s able to resist common medications may be behind your chronic yeast infection.
If your yeast infection isn’t responding to treatment, your doctor may recommend a different antifungal medication and a multifaceted approach. This might include lifestyle changes and supplements.
It’s not a yeast infection
Some conditions can mimic the symptoms of a yeast infection, such as:
It’s important to see your doctor for a first-time yeast infection or for a yeast infection that returns. They can take a sample (culture) of the suspected yeast infection to determine if it’s attributed to another condition.
The genital area naturally contains Candida. Once this balance is disrupted, though, Candida overgrowth can happen.
For some people, being prone to yeast infections is simply hereditary. Overgrowth of yeast can also happen as a result of:
- douching
- moist conditions
- poor hygiene
- antibiotic use
Genital yeast infections are also
Some studies suggest chronic yeast infections may be due to hypersensitivity to Candida.
A genital yeast infection can cause burning and itching sensations. You may also notice a red rash, especially around the vulva or anywhere on the penis. When you urinate, you may see a cottage cheese-like discharge and feel burning on the surrounding skin.
Over-the-counter suppository medications can usually treat vaginal yeast infections. However, if this is your first yeast infection or first recurring yeast infection, you may want to see a doctor. They can rule out the possibility of other infections.
Once treated, you can help keep genital yeast infections from returning by maintaining good hygiene habits and promoting normal vaginal bacterial balance. Tips include wearing cotton underwear and loose clothing, and taking daily showers.
Like the genital area, Candida is naturally occurring inside your mouth. But if Candida levels get out of control, you may develop thrush.
Symptoms include thick, white lesions that grow on the insides of the cheeks, tongue, and back of the throat. You may also have an uncomfortable feeling of fullness in your mouth. This can cause difficulty eating and swallowing.
Oral thrush tends to be more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as:
- babies
- older adults
- people with autoimmune disorders
Wearing dentures or taking antibiotics can also lead to Candida overgrowth in your mouth.
Oral thrush is easily treatable. It involves taking antifungal medication by mouth.
Inadequate oral hygiene can lead to recurring thrush infections. Chronic oral thrush can also occur in babies who need to continue breastfeeding.
Strategies for preventing chronic oral thrush include:
- Replace your toothbrush or any mouth gear after an active oral thrush infection so you don’t re-infect yourself.
- Clean and sterilize retainers and other dental gear like dentures, mouthguards, and water flossers. Consider consulting a dentist or doctor for tips.
- For babies with oral thrush, both mom and baby need to receive treatment. Having the household take preventive measures at the same time is also important.
It’s also possible to develop a throat and esophageal yeast infection. Mucocutaneous candidiasis is behind this type of yeast infection. It affects the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus.
Esophageal yeast infections can occur if oral thrush is left untreated.
These types of yeast infections are also most common in people with weakened immune systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mouth and throat yeast infections occur in about
Treatment and preventive measures for yeast infections in the throat and esophagus are similar to those for oral thrush. A doctor will likely prescribe an antifungal medication called fluconazole.
The sooner you treat a yeast infection, the faster you can eliminate the associated discomfort. See a doctor if your yeast infection seems persistent.
Once your doctor confirms the diagnosis, it’s important to follow their instructions to reduce the possibility of the infection returning.
Here are some tips to help you manage chronic yeast infections:
- Make sure you complete your full course of medication, even if symptoms go away before the medication is gone and even if you don’t think it’s working right away.
- If you’re sexually active, ask your partner to get tested for Candida, too. This will help prevent the infection from spreading.
- Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen or if the infection returns after the treatment is complete.
Yeast infections are complex, but they can be cured.
Severe or recurring yeast infections will take more time and attention. Keep in touch with your doctor if symptoms of a yeast infection get worse or come back.