Even for once or twice in a woman's life, she will be experiencing yeast infection. This is one of the most common as well as the most dreaded infection that sometimes a women has to suffer not only twice, but many times in a single year. However, many women are not that well-equipped with knowledge as to what yeast infection really is. This is the reason why some of them will have no clue as to what hits them when they already had it. They may sometimes confuse it with STD or the sexually transmitted disease.

When you think and feel that you have infection in your vagina, you have to go to your doctor immediately so that you will know the accurate diagnosis of the infection. Yeast infection is so common that women will always find themselves wondering how long these infections will last.

The answer to this primary question really depends on the cause why you have this infection in the first place. This condition is referred to as candidiasis. This infection is caused primarily by fungus-like yeast called Candida albicans. Candida albicans is part of the normal flora especially in the vaginal area. But, they can be opportunistic when a certain environmental change like pH change will promote their multiplication in the first place. Some people will have it on the mouth or in any moist areas of the body as long as the environment supports their way of living.

This condition will last for long periods of time especially when you leave it untreated, which is why it is important that you need to consult your doctor as soon as possible if you do not want to suffer longer. There are over the counter medications as well as prescription strength medications that will treat you of this infection. The sooner you start with the regimen, the faster you will be relieved of the symptoms and the entire infection.

There are a lot of over the counter creams and suppositories that will facilitate clearing up this yeast infection for only three days and your doctor can actually prescribe a pill that will almost work like a miracle for 24 hours and the next day, your infection is long gone.

One of the primary factors why women will experience this condition is when they are taking antibiotics. Antibiotics will change the natural pH balance of the vagina as well as inhibit the beneficial bacteria that keep the opportunistic ones in check. As a result, there will be infection. Another factor that should be considered is when you are under a lot of stress.

When you suspect you have this infection, you should look out for vaginal discharge that has a typical foul odor and the discharge could either be whitish to yellowish.