What causes an yeast infection

Not medical advice: The fungus candida albicans (yeast) is responsible for vaginal yeast infections. A healthy balance of the fungus and lactobacillus acid prevents an overgrowth of yeast. However, yeast overgrowth can be caused by pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, an impaired immune system, irritation caused by a lack of vaginal lubrication, and the use of antibiotics.

A yeast infection can be transmitted through oral-genital contact, but it isn’t classified as a sexually transmitted disease because celibate women develop them and because the candida fungus is normally present in the vagina.

Online health supplement website RockwellNutrition.com has made headlines claiming that boric acid suppositories successfully treat hard-to-get-rid-of yeast infections. They say a study published in Obstetrical and Gynecological in 2003 proves boric acid’s antiseptic and anti-fungal properties.