Separating the facts from the myths is part of your best defense against getting or spreading yeast infection. The following are some myths regarding yeast infection. It is important to know about some of the myths as you may be subscribing to the wrong information all this time.

Myth #1: Yeast infection is passed through sexual intercourse only

While it’s true that you can get yeast infection through having sex with someone who is infected, that is not the only way the infection is passed. The causative microorganism of yeast infection, Candida albicans, may be able to survive for some time on almost anything that has come in contact with the infection. That’s why sharing of towels or undergarments with someone who is infected will only increase your risk of getting yeast infection as well.

Myth #2: Yeast infection is not deadly

Regular yeast infection doesn’t require days of hospital confinement. If you had one the first time, sure you might have had it checked by a doctor and received prescription medications as well. However, for a few subsequent infections, especially if you know what you’re already dealing with, a visit to the doctor may not be necessary. But if you do not treat it promptly and properly, things could get really out of hand. When your immune system, the one which mostly keeps yeast infection at bay, is damaged by factors like stress or unhealthy eating habits, the disease can become a life-threatening problem.

Myth #3: Yeast infection happens only to women

This is not true because men do get yeast infections too. While it’s not that common to men as it is to women, uncommon, however, does not say they don’t get infected. The reason behind this is simple: Candida albicans grow uncontrollably in dark, warm and moist spaces – like a woman’s vaginal canal – so yeast infection is the result. But the male anatomy does not provide such environment, so for the yeast infection to thrive is less frequent.

Myth #4: Yeast infection in children is due to molestation

Although a way of transmitting yeast infection is through sexual intercourse, it doesn’t always follow that, when a child is infected, sexual molestation is the culprit. Yeast infection is rather easy to get, even among children. By using objects used by an infected person or by using harsh soaps, children may acquire the disease. However, the cause of yeast infection in children calls for looking into its potential causes. If it’s due to molestation, symptoms such as genital bleeding, swelling and evident behavioral changes are likely present with the infection.

Myth #5: Yeast infection is worsened by swimming

If swimming is one of your ways of keeping fit, but you are suffering from yeast infection, there’s no need to skip your fitness regimen. According to studies, you can swim as often as you like, whether in cold or hot water. Just remember to take off your bathing suit after swimming, clean up and dry thoroughly to prevent worsening of the infection. Also, you cannot transfer yeast infection to other persons in the pool, or vice versa. The chemicals added to the pool water keep microorganisms under control.