If you have a vaginal yeast infection, you're most likely to experience itching in the vaginal area. Other symptoms include a burning sensation, soreness, pain during intercourse and/or during urination, and a thick, white, vaginal discharge.

Most women will have at least one vaginal yeast infection with symptoms at some point, and almost half will have two or more.

Yeasts are fungi. Most yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the Candida albicans fungus. Candida albicans is usually present in the vagina and is normally found in the mouth, digestive tract and on the skin. But it can overgrow  in certain conditions.

A vaginal yeast infection isn't considered a sexually transmitted infection. But there is a rare (about 15%) chance that men can develop symptoms (an itchy rash on the penis) after unprotected sex with an infected woman. Uncircumcised men have a greater risk of developing a rash.

If you suspect you have a yeast infection but aren't sure, see a doctor. Your symptoms could be something else, and not getting proper treatment can lead to potentially serious complications. Ask your doctor before treating yourself for a yeast infection if you are pregnant, have never been diagnosed with a yeast infection, or get recurrent yeast infections.

Most doctors recommend that women not douche at all. Douching changes the acidity level of the vagina and the balance of organisms that live in it. Wash only the outer folds of the vagina with warm water and mild soap.

You can reduce your chances of getting a yeast infection by wearing cotton panties, which are cooler than synthetic panties and won't trap sweat; avoiding douches and feminine sprays, which can be irritating; avoiding hot tubs or very hot baths; changing tampons or pads often during your period; getting out of wet clothes; and avoiding tight panties, pantyhose, and jeans.

Some types of yogurt contain dietary acidophilus (Lactobacillus acidophilus), which is a type of "friendly" bacteria that lives in the digestive, urinary, and genital systems. But there is not enough scientific evidence to say that yogurt effectively treats or prevents vaginal yeast infections.

Certain medications -- including birth control pills, some antibiotics, and steroids -- can change the acidic balance of the vagina and encourage the growth of yeast, which can lead to a vaginal infection.

Menopause causes hormonal changes, which can affect the balance of yeast or bacteria in the vagina and lead to a yeast infection.

A recurrent yeast infection is defined as four or more infections in one year. Recurrent yeast infections may be related to other medical conditions, such as diabetes or HIV, and may require a doctor's care. They can also be caused by yeast that are resistant to antifungal medications.