Candidiasis is an infection caused by a species of the yeast Candida, usually Candida albicans. It is a common cause of vaginal infections in women. It may also cause mouth infections in people with reduced immune function, or in patients taking certain antibiotics. A more serious form of the condition, known as deep organ candidiasis, can infect nearly all the major organs of the body.

Over one million women in the United States develop vaginal candidiasis, more commonly known as yeast infections, each year. Most women with vaginal candidiasis experience severe vaginal itching. They also have a discharge that often looks like cottage cheese and has a sweet or bread-like odor. The vulva and vagina can be red, swollen, and painful, particularly during sexual intercourse.

In most cases, vaginal candidiasis can be treated successfully with a variety of over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories. These include Monistat, Gyne-Lotrimin, and...