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| Welcome to Ask Ms. KnowBODY. This is the place for you to ask all those embarrassing questions about your body. Even if you aren't embarrassed and you're just confused or worried... Ask Ms. KnowBODY. |
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Dear Ms. KnowBody:
What is a yeast infection and how to do
you get rid of it?
Phebe, 12, from Washington DC.
Dear Phebe:
Yeast (technically called Candida Albicans) grows in your vagina
naturally. This yeast helps to keep your vagina healthy, and is usually not a
problem. But, if the chemical balance in the vagina shifts, yeast can grow out
of control. The symptoms of a yeast infection include a thick, white discharge
that looks something like cottage cheese (but doesn't smell like it). The
discharge may come with an fishy odor, and an itching, burning feeling in the
vagina.
There are some things that you can do to prevent yeast infections, such as:
1. Wear cotton panties (or at least panties with a cotton crotch) - they let air circulate around your vulva.
2. Wash with soap and water every day.
3. Don't wear pants that are too tight, pantyhose or spandex exercise clothes.
4. Always wipe from front to back after going to the potty.
5. Avoid using any products with scents and perfumes around your vagina.
If you think you have a yeast infection, see your health care provider. Treatment is often an anti-fungal cream that you put in your vagina.
To your health,
Ms. KnowBody