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Yeast infection can be sexually transmitted between partners, but it is not actually classified as a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD). The reason that yeast infection is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection is that Candida albicans, the most common cause of yeast infection, lives normally on the body of both males and females and can be easily passed from one partner to the other even in monogamous relationships. It is normal to find Candida as part of the resident flora on the mucous membranes of the mouth and genital areas, in the gastrointestinal tract and on the skin. It is thought that about 80 to 90 % of people carry Candida. Candida is usually kept in check by the other normal flora of the body such as Lactobacillus in the vagina, and E.coli in the gut. The resident flora compete with each other for nutrients and space and can sometimes form toxins which are lethal to the growth of the yeast. It is only when this natural balance is altered that the yeast is able to overgrow and cause infection which is commonly known as thrush. Candida albicans are defined as opportunistic pathogens. This means they cause a yeast infection only if the body's immune system is weakened. The conditions in the body can then become favourable for the yeasts to overgrown and invade the tissues. The most common yeast infections which affect the gential areas and can be sexually transmitted between partners are: 1)In Females Vaginal thrush which causes an odourless discharge which looks like cottage cheese. Sometimes there are white patches on the mucous membranes which are red and inflammed on the undersurface. The vaginal area becomes very itchy and sore and sexual intercourse is painful 2) In Males The most common form of yeast infection in males is groin infection (jock itch) which shows up as a red itchy rash in the groin area, and which sometimes spreads to the genital area as well. Males also get balanitis which is a yeast infection on the penile shaft. This causes white patches with a red undersurface which is itchy and painful. 3) Sometimes oral thrush is also associated with sexual transmission. The mouth and tongue develop white patches with inflamation which are sore and make eating difficult. Because yeast is so commonly carried, it is logical to assume that yeast can be passed between partners. However the partner will only develop a yeast infection if the natural balance of his/her own body has changed, allowing the yeast to overgrow and cause thrush. If either you or your partner suffer from recurrent thrush it is important to understand that yeast infections can be sexually transmitted between you and it is advisable to treat both partners even if one of you does not suffer from infection. This is a precautionary measure. This asymptomatic partner may simply be a carrier of yeast as part of their normal flora but may continue to reinfect the partner who is more susceptible to yeast infection. The carrier's immune system may be strong enough to resist the yeast overgrowth which leads to infection but the yeast they carry may be transmitted to the partner through sexual intercourse. There is definitely no stigma attached to yeast infections which are sexually transmitted. Candida is not a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and the yeast infection may not be due to sexual activity at all. There should be no blame or guilt related to a yeast infection transferred between partners. Most people who suffer from recurrent yeast infections, often however, suffer from some degree of embarrassment and say that it affects their relationships. It is therefore important to find a remedy which alleviates the symptoms and prevents the reoccurence of yeast infections.There are lots of remedies available which say they cure yeast infections. A little reasearch will help you find out what the best solution is for you. Learn more about yeast infections and their prevention by clicking on the link below. This e-book "Natural Candida Cleanse- Say Goodbye to Yeast Infections Forever", will arm you with the details about how to prevent yeast infection being sexually transmitted between partners. http://www.Thrush-Treatments.com
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