Yeast Infection (Thrush, Diaper Rash, Vaginitis)
Yeast infections are caused by a fungus called Candida. These infections can present in a variety of forms:
- Thrush: also known as oropharyngeal candidiasis or candidiasis of the mouth and throat.
- Yeast diaper rash: a skin infection caused by a yeast infection located on the area covered by a diaper.
- Vaginitis: a yeast infection in women that infects the vagina.
Transmission
Anyone can get a yeast infection. This fungus is present in and on the body. A warm environment allows for growth and spread. A past infection does not make a person immune. Rarely, yeast infections spread via:
- Person to person. Transmission may occur from mother to baby while pregnant, during birth, or after the baby is born through breastfeeding.
Yeast infections are common among people who have:
- weakened immune systems
- recently taken antibiotics (or received them through breastmilk)
- diabetes
Risk factors:
Thrush:
- Wear dentures
- Take medications that cause dry mouth
- Smoke
Yeast Diaper Rash:
- Urine or stool touching skin for long periods of time (overnight)
- Little to no air circulation on the skin
- Diaper material rubbing on the skin
Vaginitis:
- Are pregnant
- Use hormonal contraceptives (i.e., birth control pills)
Symptoms
The incubation period is unknown. Symptoms depend on the type of yeast infection and can include:
Thrush
- White patches appear on the inside of cheeks, gums, and tongue
Yeast diaper rash
- The diaper area is red
- The redness is worse in the creases and is often surrounded by red pimples
- Rash may look shiny
- Sores, cracking, or oozing is present in severe cases
Vaginitis
- Vaginal irritation, soreness
- Intense vaginal itchiness
- Abnormal discharge
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
Diagnosis
A person is diagnosed by the clinical appearance of the rash.
Treatment
See your health care provider as soon as symptoms appear for treatment options.
Treatment options include:
- Prescription medications
- “Over-the-Counter” medications (non-prescription medications)
For more information about the treatment of yeast infections, contact your health care provider or visit Candidiasis | Types of Diseases | Fungal Diseases | CDC.
Prevention
Hand washing is important to prevent all types of yeast infections.
Thrush
- Clean and avoid sharing pacifiers, bottle nipples, toys, and teething rings
- Maintain good oral health
- Rinse mouth or brush teeth after using corticosteroids
Yeast Diaper Rash
- Use highly absorbent diapers and change them frequently
- Clean skin between diaper changes and apply ointment to create a barrier between the skin and diaper
- Do not secure diapers too tightly to allow airflow or leave diapers off for a short period
Vaginitis
- Wear cotton underwear
- Take antibiotics as prescribed
- Treatment may prevent the spread to newborns
Exclusion Guidance
Individuals with yeast infections should not be excluded from work, school, or child care unless the general exclusions apply.