Can Stress Trigger a Yeast Infection?

Yeast infections are mostly caused by the Candida albicans. It’s a type of fungus that lives normally in your body. However, when the fungus develops out of control, it results in a yeast infection. There’re loads of causes of the infection, such as hormonal changes, medications, and autoimmune diseases. In addition, stress is one of the important triggers of yeast infections. It releases a hormone that can weaken the immune system, causing the infection. So, how stress can trigger a yeast infection and how to use stress management to deal with Candida are always interested questions.  

How can stress trigger a yeast infection?

Like bacteria, yeast normally likes living in the vagina. When something increases the ratio of the fungus, yeast infections will occur. Poor feminine hygiene, antibiotics and birth control may upset the ratio. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are more susceptible to have the infection because of the changes in hormone levels. Besides, stress is considered one of the invaders.

No evidence can show that stress causes yeast infections. But it’s always a big factor making the infection more persistent and more prone to recur. A given question is how stress is linked with yeast infections? In fact, when you experience stress- whether it’s mental, physical or emotional stress, your body produces more cortisol hormone. It’s highly inflammation. The hormone can weaken your immune system and increase the level of blood sugar at the same time. Thus, Candida that already presents in your vagina can grow on this sugar and develop rapidly, leading to a yeast infection. That’s a reason why people with chronic stress often experience chronic yeast infections. 

Related: 7 Common Skin Conditions Triggered by Stress

Besides, stress affects your digestive function temporarily that may trigger the infection. As you know your body can keep Candida under control. It’s because your immune system and healthy gut bacteria work best together to keep the fungus from multiplying rapidly. However, when the immune system is suppressed and the digestive function is affected, Candida has chance to grow out of control.

Can a yeast infection be treated?

Yeast infections normally can be treatable at home. But, depending on your symptoms, doctors may prescribe proper treatment for you.

Simple infections

 If you experience a mild yeast infection, your doctor will often prescribe antifungal creams, tablet, and ointment. The treatment can be a prescription and OTC form, including:

• Fugacil
• Fluconazole
• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole

These are effective in treating yeast infection. Fugacil is especially one of the best creams for the infection. The cream contains powerful antifungal ingredients approved by the FDA. It helps kill the fungus at the root and prevent it from coming back.

Related: How to Diagnose Yeast Infections at Home

Stubborn infections

Your doctor will treat your yeast infection if it’s a severe case. See him or her if you have:

• Serious redness, itching and swelling that may cause tears or sores in the vaginal tissue
• More than four yeast infections each year
• Yeast infections during pregnancy
• Uncontrollable diabetes or weak immune system by medications
• HIV positive

Treatments for stubborn yeast infections includes:

• Antifungal medications within two weeks
• Long term prescription of fluconazole once a week for six weeks

If your infection is recurring, you should use condoms when performing sex.

Related: 8 Effective Treatments for a Vaginal Yeast Infection

What happens if yeast infections left untreated?

Many people think that a yeast infection can be gone away by its own, so it’s needless to seek treatment. Unluckily, the infection can results in serious health problems if left untreated. For years, the infection may lead to:

• Worse infection. Untreated yeast infections usually cause worse symptoms. It can turn into a nightmare as the infection develops out of control. Then, it causes discomfort and annoying symptoms.
• Serious health complications. If left untreated, the fungus develops fast and breaks down the intestinal track. This allows toxins to penetrate the liver and kidney. These organs can’t get rid of the toxins rapidly, causing acne, rashes and itching.
• Re- occur infections. Like other conditions without treatment, yeast infections can come back easily when you meet a little trigger.

Related: 10 Common Reasons for Recurrent Yeast Infections

How to use stress management to fight off yeast infections

Occasionally, stress is around you. There will always be in your work, uncontrollable situations or relationship. While stress triggers a yeast infection, the best way you can prevent it is management. Here’re some ways to reduce stress, including:

• Taking relax with an interesting books or comedy
• Closing your eyes and taking deep breath
• Going for a walk with loved people
• Doing gentle exercise, such as yoga, swimming or jogging
• Eating smart helps control your moods
• Getting enough sleep
• Sharing your troubles with trusted people if possible
• Going easy on yourself and stopping thinking too much

Though stress never causes a yeast infection, it’s one of the important triggers of the infection. Stress weakens the immune system and affects the digestive function. So, you should find out stress management to fight off Candida. Also, it’s essential to seek proper treatment to get rid of the infection if you have it. Yeast infections are itching, painful and uncomfortable. If left untreated, the infection may lead to serious health complications.