For many women, yeast infections are an embarrassing topic, but a very common problem. Three out of four women will have a yeast infection at some point during their life, and by recognizing the symptoms you can treat the discomfort quickly and easily. While annoying and uncomfortable, yeast infections are not a serious medical problem. Yeast occurs naturally in the vagina, but when there is an overgrowth of it a woman develops a yeast infection, also known as candida. There are certain triggers, such as tight fitting pants, wet bathing suits, or wiping from back to front. Certain antibiotics and pills can also suppress the flora in the vagina and cause yeast to grow. Sometimes stress or poor diet can cause yeast infections. The first yeast infection symptom is usually severe itching. Burning and redness of the outer vagina can also occur, as well as clumpy, white discharge. A woman may have pain during intercourse or urination as well. If it's the first time you've had a yeast infection, or you are having recurring yeast infections, you should see a doctor to rule out other infections or causes of inflammation. A simple yeast culture test is performed to determine if it is a yeast infection. However, if you've had yeast infections before and have been previously diagnosed, you can consider treating it yourself. Yeast infection treatment can be vaginal or oral. Depending on the yeast infection cream or capsule, it will be used for one to seven days. Topical yeast infection treatments tend to work faster than oral antibiotics, which is why many women prefer the convenience of over-the-counter yeast infection treatments. There are a variety of homeopathic and natural yeast infection treatments available at health food stores or from a naturopath. Usually, a naturopath will prescribe vaginal suppositories made from tea trea oil and acidophilus (the good bacteria found in yogurt) Many women find comfort in yeast infection home remedies. If you are treating a yeast infection, there are a number of things you can do to ease the discomfort. Keep the area dry and clean, and wear loose cotton panties that won't trap moisture. Don't use bubble bath or strong soaps while bathing and showering, and if you go swimming change your bathing suit immediately afterwards as this can prolong a yeast infection. You should also avoid unprotected sex as your yeast infection can be transmitted to your partner.