Most women have a vaginal yeast infection at some time. Candida
albicans is a common type of fungus. It is often found in small
amounts in the vagina, mouth, digestive tract, and on the skin.
Usually it does not cause disease or symptoms. Candida and the
many other germs that normally live in the vagina keep each
other in balance. However, sometimes the number of Candida
albicans increases, leading to a yeast infection. This can
happen if you are: Taking antibiotics used to treat other types
of infections. Antibiotics change the normal balance between
germs in the vagina by decreasing the number of protective
bacteria. A pelvic examination will be done. It may show
swelling and redness of the skin of the vulva, in the vagina,
and on the cervix. The health care provider may find dry, white
spots on the vaginal wall. There may be cracks in the skin of
the vulva. Sometimes, a culture is taken when the infection does
not improve with treatment or comes back many times. Your health
care provider may order other te