What Causes It?

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Candida is a yeast-like fungus that grows in the vagina. When there is too much of it, it causes infection. The following increase your chance of getting a yeast infection.

Antibiotics—especially broad-spectrum types
Pregnancy—from increased heat and moisture and hormonal shifts
Diabetes
Corticosteroid use
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection
Taking birth control pills
Being overweight
High sugar intake
Wearing panty hose, tight clothing, or noncotton underwear

Signs and Symptoms

Itching in the vagina and vulva
Vaginal discharge (small amounts are normal, however)
Red, swollen, painful vaginal mucous membranes and external genitalia
Satellite lesions (tender, red, pus-filled bumps, which can spread to thighs and anus)