Fungal STDs
Agar plate culture of Candidiasis
Vaginal yeast infections, also called Candidiasis, are not usually related to sex. They are often included among the STDs because they are frequently seen in females with other types of STD infections. This same infection is also seen in the mouths of people who have HIV/AIDS or other diseases that decrease their ability to resist infection.
Candidiasis is a common infection in females. 75% of all women are likely to have at least one yeast infection, and up to 45% will have two or more. CDC Fact Sheet
How do I get this STD?
Females tend to be more susceptible to yeast infections when they are under stress from poor diet, lack of sleep, or sick. You are also more susceptible if you are diabetic, pregnant, on birth control pills or taking antibiotics, or douching too often.
What should I watch for?
What does it look like?
VERY GRAPHIC!
Vaginal yeast infections may cause the following symptoms:
- Vaginal itch and/or soreness.
- Pain or discomfort during sex.
- A thick, white, cheese-like vaginal discharge.
- Burning discomfort around the vaginal opening, especially if urine contacts the area.
What happens if I don't get treated?
Candidiasis is usually easily treated but if you have other illnesses or a weakened immune system (such as those people with HIV/AIDS), these infections can be difficult to treat and may recur even after treatment is done. In these patients, candidiasis can be life-threatening if it passes into the blood and spreads through your body.
Male partners may carry the fungus in their urethra without any symptoms. This should be suspected if you get the infection following un-protected sex and do not have any other conditions that can cause this infection.
How can I prevent it?
Abstinence, or avoiding sexual contact, is your best and only 100% certain way of preventing STDs.
Use a new latex condom (rubber) with a water-based lubricant every time you have sex.
Read below for more ways you can protect yourself...
ANSWER:
Abstinence, or avoiding sexual contact, is your best and only 100% certain way of preventing STDs. There is really no way to have a sexual relationship with another person that does not put you at risk for STDs. Ideally you should wait to have sex until you are ready for a permanent relationship with just one person and when they are equally committed to this relationship and to only having sex with you. Even in this situation, there is a risk of STDs if you or your partner has had other sexual relationships prior to this relationship.
If you are having sex now using a latex condom is your first line of defense. Use a new condom every time you have sex. Many teens are embarrassed to buy condoms, but if you are old enough to have sex, you are old enough to act responsibly. Don't let embarrassment prevent you from taking care of yourself and your partner.
Think ahead and always be prepared!
More Ways to Protect Yourself if You are Having Sex Now:
- Have sex only with one partner who is not infected and is only having sex with you.
- Talk with your partner about past sex partners and about any needle drug use.
- Don't have sex with someone who you think might have a STD.
- Before you have sex, look closely at your partner for any signs of STD. If you see anything you are worried about, don't have sex!
- Use a latex condom (rubber) for oral and anal sex. Use an unlubricated condom for oral sex. Males and females should both carry protection.
- In addition to condoms, use birth control foam, cream, or jelly. These kill many STD germs.
- Urinate immediately after sex - this may help remove harmful germs from the urinary tract.
- Avoid using alcohol or drugs that can impair your judgment, making you more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors.
- Get checked for STDs every time you have a health exam if you have had sex. Remember not all STDs have symptoms!
- Know the symptoms of STDs. If you notice a symptom, go see a doctor.
- If you have a STD, your partner must get treated. Don't have sex until your treatment is complete.
The Teen Resource website is funded through the Georgia Department of Community Health - Adolescent Health and Youth Development Program.