Yeast Infection Candida vaginitis Many bacteria and fungi inhabit the vagina.  Under normal circumstances, there is a balance among them.  If the balance is disrupted, an overgrowth of one of the organisms may occur.  When the balance tips in favor of candida, a vaginal yeast infection may occur.  Antibiotics can kill off the good bacteria in the vagina and are a common cause of yeast infections.  Anything that stresses the immune system, such as diabetes, may also cause yeast infection. Cheesy white vaginal discharge Vaginal itching Redness outside vagina (e.g., labia) May be unknown Antibiotics Diabetes Pregnancy Obesity KOH (fungal) slide prep shows yeast Fungal culture Diflucan -- one or two doses by mouth Ketoconazole for 5 days (Diflucan has less side effects and is easier to take) Monistat vaginal suppositories or similar products Terconazole vaginal suppositories Bacterial Vaginosis Chlamydia Gonorrhea Trichomonas Pelvic Inflammatory Disease