Vaginal candidiasis is very common. According to a survey done by Monistat, three out of four women will develop a yeast infection in their lifetime. Of those who took their survey, 81% believe that sex is the primary culprit of yeast infections and that it is contagious.
But is it really? Can making love cause vaginal yeast infections?
The Reason Behind the Myth
Many women have blamed their partners for their vaginal candidiasis, and you can’t say their reason isn’t valid.
Vaginal yeast infection already causes symptoms like skin dryness, itching, irritation, pain, and soreness. Unfortunately, some women don’t get treatment for their symptoms. So when they do have sexual intercourse, the activity only aggravates their symptoms since it irritates the already inflamed skin. The increased symptoms make them think then that sex is the primary culprit and that it is the cause of the infection.
Debunking the Myth
One study though has shown that yeast infection isn’t contagious and cannot be transmitted through sexual intercourse. In fact, the study revealed that the primary factors that increase the risk of developing vaginal yeast infection are the use of oral contraceptives and spermicides, recent diagnosis of yeast infection, and oral sex.
The oral cavity and the saliva contain yeast, and yeast can be transmitted through oral sex. Because the saliva can also irritate the skin, not only can it transmit yeast but it can also facilitate its adherence to the irritated skin. This then can result in its overgrowth and contribute to the development of vaginal candidiasis.
There are other factors, too, that can cause recurrent yeast infections like chronic medical illnesses (diabetes and immune system problems), pregnancy, stress, and hormonal imbalance. The use of antibiotics and poor diet (especially foods high in sugar) are also contributing factors. All of these can alter the pH balance in the area and result in an overgrowth of yeast cells.
A variety of factors can cause vaginal candidiasis, but sexual intercourse isn’t one of them although it can worsen the symptoms. The sexual activity that can cause vaginal candidiasis is oral sex.
References:
It’s Time for TMI. URL Link. November 28, 2017.
Vaginal yeast infections more common when using contraceptives or spermicides, or participating in receptive oral sex. URL Link. November 28, 2017.
