Yeast & Menopause

Yeast (Candida albicans) is commonly found in and on the human body, especially in dark, damp areas such as between the toes, under the arms and in the vagina. Yeast is harmless unless the body's natural pH balance or bacterial balance is disturbed, allowing infection to set in. Vaginal yeast infections are common in all women, but tend to occur more often and be harder to eradicate for some women who are menopausal or postmenopausal.

Causes

• Yeast infection can occur for many reasons. There is a balance in our bodies between fungi, such as yeast, and naturally occurring bacteria. Antibiotic treatment for an unrelated problem can kill the bacteria that normally keep yeast in check, allowing the yeast to multiply. Hygiene can also play a part. Paradoxically, by being either not clean enough and allowing anal-vaginal bacteria exchange, or by being too clean and using douches, sprays and perfumed soaps, one can create an environment that encourages yeast growth. Diabetics are also more prone to develop yeast infections, especially on the feet and in the vagina.

Hormone Connection

• Hormone fluctuations cause changes in the acidic levels (pH balance) of the vagina which can allow yeast to grow. Many ovulating women report that they are most prone to infections during or immediately after their menstrual periods. Menopausal and postmenopausal women lack certain hormones, causing the tissue of the vaginal walls to be dry and thin. When this tissue is injured, infection can easily follow.

Symptoms

• Vaginal infections, yeast and other types, share symptoms of itching, burning, painful urination and, sometimes, light vaginal bleeding. There is often a change in the amount, color or odor of the vaginal mucus. While vaginitis is not dangerous or life-threatening, it can be very uncomfortable and embarrassing.

Prevention

• For women of all ages certain precautions can often prevent vaginal infections: practice safe toilet habits and sex habits, being careful not to transfer bacteria from the anal area to the vagina; keep the vaginal area clean, but do not use perfumed soap, sprays or douches; avoid tight clothing and polyester fabrics. In addition, menopausal women should use creams or ointments to lubricate the vagina, and they should make a point of voiding the bladder and cleaning the vaginal area both before and after sex. Certain foods, such as yogurt and cranberry juice, are also recommended to balance the body's pH and bacterial levels.

Treatment

• Most vaginitis can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications. However, when a woman has her first yeast infection she needs to see a doctor to make sure that it is yeast and to learn how to deal with future infections. Menopausal women who are dealing with recurrent yeast infections should consult a gynecology specialist. Some women are good candidates for hormone replacement therapy (HRT); those who are not can use prescribed medications for vaginal dryness that may be more effective than OTC cures.