Yeast Infection and Periods
Candidiasis is a common ailment, which is likely to occur in everyone at least once in their lifetime. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast called Candida albicans that occurs naturally in us all. When the fungus in the vagina has been escalated to grow too much, it causes a vaginal yeast infection.
Causes of Vaginal Itching:
- Yeast Infections: An overgrowth of the Candida fungus in the vaginal area can lead to itching, along with other symptoms such as burning and abnormal discharge.
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Imbalance in the bacteria that naturally reside in the vagina can cause BV, characterized by itching, unusual discharge, and a fishy odor.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain STIs, such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, can cause vaginal itching, along with other symptoms like pain during urination and abnormal discharge.
- Allergic Reactions: Irritants such as scented hygiene products, latex condoms, and certain fabrics can trigger allergic reactions leading to vaginal itching.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause, can result in vaginal dryness and itching.
Hello, Bacterial Vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an imbalance between the naturally occurring good and bad bacteria in your vagina. When your vagina’s bacterial levels are balanced, the harmful bacteria is fought off by the good bacteria. When you have more baddies than good, your vagina can’t do its job of staying balanced, which can lead to itching, burning and fishy odor.
Attention please: having BV can make you more prone to contracting an STI. If you think you might have bacterial vaginosis you should see a doctor right away and be sure to use protection during sex, to reduce your risk of getting an STI.
To answer a popular question about bacterial vaginosis, no, you cannot get it from toilet seats or a swimming pool. Whew.
STDs
STDs are sexually transmitted diseases, passed through sexual contact like intercourse, or oral sex. They can spread quickly and can also lead to permanent reproductive damage.
In many cases, there will be no symptoms at all - 70% of people infected with chlamydia, for example, will not show any obvious signs or symptoms or they may be very mild.
When there are symptoms of STDs, they will vary depending on the type of disease. Genital herpes can cause severe irritation, while other STDs can include skin rash, bumps or sores, unusual bleeding, swelling or redness on or around the vagina, change in discharge and weight loss.
If there is a chance of having an STD, it is important to get an examination and a sexual health test. There’s no need to be embarrassed and it’s recommended that any sexually active person has regular sexual health tests!
Symptoms of Yeast Infections
Candidiasis symptoms of infection are intense itching and burning, as well as chunky vaginal discharge. The vulva mucous membranes may show redness and small ulcers. Abdominal pain and fever don’t belong to the symptoms, and if they occur you should contact a physician. The triggering factor for causing infection is not always recognized, but, for example, antibiotics, pregnancy, as well as extensive use of non-breathable panty liners and pads can trigger it. Also artificial fibers and ill-breathable underwear predispose to infection. The yeast can also spread from the rectum into the vagina, so after a toilet visit always wipe from front to back.
Since the symptoms of yeast infection are also similar to many other diseases, such as sexually transmitted diseases or infections, over-the-counter medication should be carefully considered, especially if the yeast infection occurs for the first time. Also, women under 16 and over 60 years of age should see a doctor in case of symptoms.
Yeast infection and menstruation
Candidiasis may erupt during menstruation. In this case, it is essential to use the most breathable underwear as well as see to adequate hygiene.
During infection, the use of menstrual pads and panty liners should be avoided, because they do not breathe, and thus poach the lower end promoting the growth of yeast. The period cup is the best menstrual protection with the yeast infection, as it allows the lower end to breathe and does not disturb the natural moisture balance.
If the infection is internal and the yeast medicine cannot be orally taken or a vaginal suppository in addition to the pill has been prescribed, it should be used in the evenings. In this case, the use of a tampon or cup is not recommended. A yeast infection can also affect a man, so if there is a yeast infection going on, it is recommended to use condoms when having sex.
Effective solutions for vaginal itching and yeast infections
For the treatment of vaginal yeast infection, vaginal suppositories and oral pills on prescription and non-prescription can be found in pharmacies. Vaginal suppositories are used for 1-3 days, even during menstruation. A variety of creams can handle itching of the vulva area. Asymptomatic inflammatory yeast does not need to be treated.
For self-treatment good personal hygiene and avoiding processed sugars and high gluten-foods when possible, is of essence, since yeast feeds on sugar. In addition, favouring variable diet and healthy unsaturated fats is a good start. Poorly breathable menstrual pads, panty liners and synthetic fibrous underwear poach the lower end, and the yeast gets a favorable moist substrate.
- Antifungal Medications: Over-the-counter antifungal creams, suppositories, or oral medications can effectively treat yeast infections and alleviate vaginal itching.
- Probiotics: Incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, reducing the risk of yeast overgrowth.
- Maintaining Good Hygiene: Practicing proper hygiene, including avoiding scented products and wearing breathable cotton underwear, can help prevent vaginal itching and yeast infections. Try also scientifically tested and patented Lunette Intimate Cleanser and Lunette Intimate Wipes.
- Seeking Medical Advice: If experiencing persistent or recurrent vaginal itching or yeast infections, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
86 comments
I have been using candid v- gel for yeast infection,and my period has lasted one week . What can be the problem?
Can I use vaginal suppository while on my period?
Hi Omowunmi! You can consult a pharmacist at your local pharmacy or drug store to inquire about over the counter medications. As we are not medical professionals we cannot offer advice for treatments.
-Team Lunette
Hi Jay! You can read about reasons that can delay period from our post titled 6 Reasons You Period Could Be Late Besides Being Pregnant. :) For the infection, and for any medical concerns, we recommend you consult a physician. As we are not medical professionals we cannot offer diagnosis.
-Team Lunette
I finished my period about 2 days ago and I am beginning to notice smell and a bit of discharge from my vagina. Due to the current pandemic, I cannot afford to go get swab and treatment. Is there a home remedy or a drug I can order online?
Hi , please I did a d and c about 28days Ago , I was expecting my menstral cycle 2weeks after but it’s exactly a month …I have done severally PT afterwards , all came out negative…But I observed whenever I deep a finger into my vagina, I see a white discharge and the o four is offensive…….Is it possible the infection is delaying my period or what could be the reasons for late period ….I am worried pls ..
Hi Omowunmi! There are several factors that can cause delayed periods such as stress, hormonal imbalance. You can read more about these from our post here: https://store.lunette.com/blogs/news/6-reasons-your-period-could-be-late-besides-being-pregnant?pos=1&_sid=64db58cfa&ss=r. :)
-Team Lunette
I went to clinic and the doctor prescribed vigina insert on 4 of April and I was tested negative and I suppose to c my period on 15 of April, bt up till nao I didn’t c my period and I was testing negative too on 20 of April, I don’t know wot z wrong with me
Hi BLESSING! Because everybody and every BODY is different, only your doctor will be able to ask the necessary questions and run the appropriate tests to offer you accurate insight into your concern. Because we are not medical professionals we cannot offer medical advice or diagnosis for when your period should return. Wishing you all the best!
-Team Lunette
my period is late and my vagina was itchy so i got myself treated but my flow is yet to come.i was hoping it will come after i get treated.how long is it supposed to take to get your period back after treatment please help me for am getting worried
Hi Anna! If you think you may have a yeast infection I recommend calling a doctor to inquire how they would like you to proceed. Typically if you are experiencing your first yeast infection it is recommended to always visit your doctor so that they can test to make sure it really is a yeast infection, and can provide the appropriate treatment. However due to Covid-19 it would be best to first call and ask how they would like you to proceed and if they feel comfortable prescribing you an over the counter medicine. :)
-Team Lunette
Hi,
My sincere thanks to the author for this article, I have read a lot about vaginal yeast infection as it is more common in mid-age girls. I would like to know has it to do with warm blood or increase body temperature.
Hi Jaanashin!
Sorry to hear you’ve been feeling worried! Unfortunately we cannot assist with medical concerns as we are not medical professionals. We encourage you to contact a doctor for your concern.
-Team Lunette
My periods are one month late but I wasn’t so scared bcuz I sometimes get irregular periods. I don’t have itching, however i noticed a little swelling of labia minora but it only lasted for probably 3 days. I haven’t noticed any white discharge but sometimes it feels like there is a liquid discharge. I have also noticed that my urine seems a bit cloudy but i thought it’s probably extra cervical mucus. Please, help! I’m a bit worried and confused.
Hi Nadine!
Thanks for getting in touch, although we’re sorry to hear about the infections!
We do not have reports of menstrual cups increasing changes of getting a yeast infection- the silicone material of the cup is a highly unfavorable platform for yeast to grow. However, if you do get a yeast infection and use a cup while treating the infection, it is possible that not all of the bacteria will die off even after boiling your cup. If you feel the cup is causing recurring yeast infections it would be a good idea to purchase a new cup to avoid the risk of reinfecting yourself in case some yeast bacteria is still hiding in the air holes for example. Feel free to email us at info@lunette.com if you’d like to discuss further! :)
Best,
Team Lunette
Hello,
I have never had a yeast infection before in my life, but in the last year, due to menstrual cups, I have gotten two! I am curious as to why menstrual cups can cause a yeast infection, is it due to not adequately drying the cup before using? Or is it due to using it during spotting and not a heavy enough cycle?
I know that they are better for yeast infections compared to tampons and pads, but I am curious how they still play a role in contributing to yeast infections, even if it’s small.
Hi Nysh!
You’ll want to reach out to a doctor as soon as possible to have them diagnose the itch, and prescribe a treatment so you can be itch free! Going forward, if you stick to pads, it’s recommended that you change a pad every 3-4 hours.
Best,
Team Lunette
I don’t usually change my pad very often during menstruation, I usually change during bath, if the flow is heavy I stack like 2 or 3 pads at once and I didn’t realise this us wrong. And this I believe it led to infection. A week after my periods, my vagina is itchy, mostly the top and near the leg fold (the part where my pantie end is) that part became darker than my skin tone, the itch bear the leg didn’t stop even after more than 2 weeks and this worries me, I used scented pads btw
And help. (I’m freaking out)
Hi Max!
Sorry to hear that your period is late! I totally understand that it causes stress and insecurity.
There are many reasons that might delay the periods, such as stress or hormonal imbalance. Learn more about these factors and other reasons here: https://help.lunette.com/reasons-your-period-could-be-late-besides-being-pregnant
If you’re young and haven’t had your periods for a long time yet, it is very common that the cycle is irregular. Keep tracking your cycle with period app (for example Clue is super handy!) or make notes to your calendar. This way you can be up to date with you cycle :)
If the period won’t return until next month or you think you could be pregnant, we would recommend to consult a doctor.
Best regards,
Team Lunette
Saw my period 24th of jude,haven’t seen it july did a pregnancy test it came out negative…
Hi Boluwatife and thank you for your message!
Please note that we are no medical professionals and cannot make remote diagnosis or give medical advise. It may be best to consult your doctor and have everything checked.
Best regards,
Team Lunette
Hi Adewunmi ,
regarding a possible pregnancy it would be best if you consult your doctor. Only your doctor can make the necessary checks and tell whether you are pregnant or not.
Best regards,
Team Lunette
I had my period on MAY 31st to 3rd of June and I had sex on 16 to 20 of June. I had my JUNE period on 26 to 29 of June. But not seen my period this month. And I did pregnant test is positive.
went for scan but show not pregnant
pls can it be pregnant?
I was once experiencing itching , thick discharge and I used a yeast infection drug , it went temporarily
About 2 months ago, I noticed my vagina was itching again and I was having a whitish discharge , not thick tho .. I went to complain and I was told to use this mycoten drug and cream … I started using and the itching stopped, tho I was still seeing the discharge and till now the discharge hasn’t stopped… i also noticed some rashes or bumps around my vagina… I’m so worried
