Most women — and some men — will have a yeast infections at some point in their lives. Also called candida vaginitis or vulvovaginal candidiasis, yeast infections are most commonly caused by the fungus candida albicans.

They can also be caused by other Candida species, including C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, andC. krusei.

Up to 75% of women will get a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lives and 40 to 50% of women will experience more than one infection, according to a 2007 article in the medical journal ’The Lancet’’.

What’s more, 5 to 8% of women experience recurrent or chronic yeast infections and come down with four or more yeast infections in a single year.

Additionally, men can get yeast infections in their genitals, mouths and other areas too.

Though the term “yeast infection” is most often used to refer to a vaginal infection, it also applies to other types of candidiasis. A yeast infection of the mouth is called thrush, or oropharyngeal candidiasis. A yeast infection of the skin — which typically occurs in warm, moist areas, such as the armpits and groin — is called cutaneous candidiasis. If Candida gets into the bloodstream, such as from using a contaminated intravenous catheter, the yeast can cause a deadly infection called invasive candidiasis.

Causes of Yeast Infections

Candida yeast causes an infection when something throws off the balance between the microorganisms that live in and on your body, such as:

Pregnancy
Certain medications, including birth control pills, antibiotics, and steroids
Immune-suppressing diseases, including HIV
Diabetes
Obesity
Stress and lack of sleep, which can weaken the immune system

Additionally, certain lifestyle habits may also promote the growth of Candida, including:

Eating a diet high in sugar (a yeast food source)
Using scented soaps, bubble baths, and feminine sprays
Douching, IUD use
Maintaining poor vaginal hygiene...read more on https://planbwellness.com/all-about-yeast-infections/