 Vaginal yeast infections are very common in women. Yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted disease; it's included here because it is a common cause of vaginal discharge, which is a symptom of some STD's. The majority of yeast infections are caused by the Candida albicans species; Candida yeast can be found in the vaginas of about half of all women of childbearing age. Fortunately most of these women usually show no symptoms. The most common symptoms of this infection, when they exist, are vaginal itchiness and a solid whitish discharge. The vagina and labia can be red, swollen, sore, and quite irritated. There may be a burning sensation when urinating. Diagnosis should be done by a doctor in order to rule out more serious infections. Vaginal yeast infections can be treated with an antifungal medication, usually available without a prescription. Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted, although the yeast organisms can be passed to men. One of the most common causes of yeast infections, strangely enough, is the use of antibiotics. In addition to destroying bacteria that cause illness, antibiotics also kill off the 'good' bacteria that normally live in the vagina and kill infections. This is why it is not good practice to take antibiotics when you have a cold, as they don't do anything at all to get rid of the cold. Also, it has been found that tight fitting, poorly ventilated clothing and non-cotton undergarments cause an increase in groin warmth and sweat, which can lead to yeast infections. GONORRHEA | GENITAL WARTS | LICE & CRABS | SCABIES | HEPATITIS | HIV/AIDS |