Why do yeast infections cause so much itchiness?

Written by: Mr Mahantesh Karoshi
Published:
Edited by: Conor Lynch

In one of today’s informative articles, highly experienced and revered consultant gynaecologist, Mr Mahantesh Karoshi, we find out why exactly yeast infections lead to an intense amount of itchiness, and what the most common symptoms associated with yeast infections are.

Why do yeast infections cause so much itchiness?

There are many possible explanations. Some of the more plausible ones are that candida can actually reside on the skin surface, particularly on the margins of the skin where the mucous membranes are. Candida can reside at this juncture because it is moist, dark, and warm. These specific areas (where the skin meets the vagina) provide the right kind of environment for yeast infections to really proliferate.

 

Some believe the itching is caused due to the fact that, when candida changes, it mutates into a particular form, as it has small hooks which can grab onto the skin and latch and burrow into the skin. This can create a sensation of itching. The longer the duration of infection, the more established the yeast infection in a particular area can be.

 

Another theory is that the yeast cells actually become infected by the immune system, so the immune system will, in the skin, release certain chemicals such as histamines or various other chemicals which will try to attack the yeast and set up an inflammatory response.

 

Apart from itchiness, what are the most common symptoms associated with yeast infections?

There are many symptoms of a yeast infection. The main ones that patients typically report are itchiness, redness, and heat.

 

Mr Mahantesh Karoshi is the ideal medical professional for you if you are currently suffering from any of the abovementioned symptoms. You can schedule either an online or face-to-face appointment with him today by heading on over to his Top Doctors profile

By Mr Mahantesh Karoshi
Obstetrics & gynaecology

Mr Mahantesh Karoshi is a London-based women’s health expert and consultant gynaecologist, with a special interest in ovarian cysts, heavy menstrual bleeding, infertility, fibroids, and adenomyosis. He is currently one of the most highly-rated gynaecologists in London with a very good reputation amongst his patients and peers.

Mr Karoshi's work is recognised internationally, having volunteered in Ethiopia’s Gimbie Hospital, and later receiving the Bernhard Baron Travelling Fellowship from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists which led to his work in the University of Buenos Aires. Here he worked on the techniques needed to surgically manage morbidly adherent placental disorders - a serious condition that can occur in women with multiple caesarean sections.

He believes in an open doctor-patient relationship, being sure to include the patient and educating them so that they understand their condition better and they can be directly involved in their care and management at every stage. Aside from his clinical work, he is actively involved in research, which together with his experience, has given him the opportunity to publish the first stand-alone textbook on postpartum haemorrhage which was launched by HRH Princess Anne.

At the core of Mr Karoshi's practice is a high standard of professionalism where patients are involved in their treatment and where the latest techniques and advancements are used to provide an extremely high level of care.

View Profile

Overall assessment of their patients


  • Related procedures
  • Platelet-rich plasma
    Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
    Cosmetic Consulting
    Labiaplasty
    Vaginoplasty
    Breast reconstruction
    Congenital malformations
    Sexual dysfunction
    Laparoscopy
    Erectile dysfunction
    This website uses our own and third-party Cookies to compile information with the aim of improving our services, to show you advertising related to your preferences as well analysing your browsing habits. You can change your settings HERE.