Yeast infection, also known as candidiasis or candida infection, is a medical condition which is caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast (especially the Candida albicans species) inside our body. Like any other diseases or medical conditions, there are several common misconceptions about yeast infection. Here are some of the myths we often hear about this condition.

1. Yeast infection only affects women.

The Candida albicans fungus does not only live inside an adult female’s vagina. It can also be present in men, children, and even babies. As a matter of fact, this fungus can live in warm, moist, and dark places. In some cases, candida yeast can also infect the tip of the penis. Babies and children can suffer from candidiasis due to many factors such as particular allergy to antibiotics, chronic stress, infrequent changing of diapers, and an allergy to laundry detergents. Besides genitals, candida can also infect the skin, intestines, and mouth.

2. Candida infection can be cured with a special diet

Candida is a type of yeast, and yeast in general depends on simple and complex sugars. Simple sugars include the sugar you use to sweeten your tea or coffee, while complex sugars make up starches. Candida also competes against healthy prebiotics inside the intestines in order to stay alive. Hence, you should avoid simple and complex sugar and consume more yogurt if you have yeast infection. However, there is no special diet for candida infection. You only have to maintain a well balanced diet.

3. You can get Candida infection from swimming

Water in swimming pools today is added with chemicals that control the population of harmful microorganisms. Therefore, there is no way you can transmit or get the infection through swimming. Nevertheless, always remember to take off your swimming apparel after swimming, wash and dry your body thoroughly. Do not miss particular spots like your genital area; keep it dry as possible to prevent the overgrowth of Candida.

4. Candidiasis is not dangerous

Generally, candida infection is not life-threatening. However, if you do have it, you should consult your doctor and get it treated immediately. Otherwise, it can cause other, more serious health problems. The wrong treatment will also make the condition even worse. Normally, mild candida infection can be cured with home remedies and do not need any prescription drugs. A good immune system is also essential in fighting infection. However, if your body immune is in a poor condition, the infection can spread to the internal organs, which can lead to death.

5. Genital yeast infections in children can only be caused by molestation

Children can get genital candidiasis from anywhere. Harsh soaps, for example, can kill prebiotics inside the vagina that is responsible to keep Candida yeast at bay. If your child has candidiasis, you should take him/her to the doctor to know the exact cause of the infection. The possibility is that there is something wrong with your child’s natural body balance, medication, or environment. If it is caused by actual molestation, tell-tale signs such as genital tearing and bleeding will likely be present with the infection.

6. Candida infection is easy to self-diagnose

This is not entirely true. Vaginal yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis symptoms are very similar, so it is easy to mistake one for the other. If you think you have yeast infection but you are not sure about it, see a doctor and get it examined. On the other hand, candidiasis in men is harder to detect. The symptoms of the infection are less visible in men than in women. Most people also believe that men can’t get candidiasis, so it is no wonder that it is usually detected very late. Candida infection in the genitals can be cured by using over-the-counter antifungal creams or ointments. However, antifungal pills for oral and nail yeast infection should be taken with doctor’s prescription.