A yeast infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida , especially Candida albicans , which naturally lives in the body, including the vagina, mouth, and skin. Normally, a balance between yeast and bacteria like Lactobacillus keeps yeast growth in check, but when this balance is disrupted, a yeast infection can develop

How You Can Get a Yeast Infection

• Natural Overgrowth : Yeast infections often happen when the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina is disturbed. This can be due to antibiotics killing beneficial bacteria, hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control, menopause), uncontrolled diabetes, or a weakened immune system

• Sexual Activity : Although yeast infections are not classified as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), they can be passed between sexual partners through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. For example, a partner with a penile yeast infection can transmit it to a female partner and vice versa. Oral-genital contact can also spread Candida and cause infections like thrush

• Environmental and Lifestyle Factors : Wearing tight or synthetic clothing, sitting for long periods in wet clothes (like swimsuits), using douches or vaginal sprays, stress, and lack of sleep can all contribute to yeast overgrowth

• Other Causes : Pregnancy, hormonal contraceptives, and certain health conditions can increase risk by altering vaginal flora or immune responses

Summary

You get a yeast infection primarily when the natural balance of yeast and bacteria in your body is disrupted, allowing yeast to grow excessively. This can happen without sexual contact, but sexual activity can also transmit yeast infections between partners. Other factors like antibiotics, hormones, diabetes, and lifestyle habits also play significant roles