How common are yeast infections?
Yeast infections are very common, but it's difficult to say exactly how many women get them.
One study found more than 7 in 10 women say they have had a yeast infection at some time in their lives.1
Yeast infections are the second most common cause of an inflamed vagina (vaginitis). The most common cause is bacterial vaginosis. This is an infection caused by bacteria.2
Vaginal yeast infections are most common in women in their 20s, 30s and 40s. It is very rare for anyone to get a yeast infection before puberty. There haven't been studies on how common yeast infections are in women at or after menopause.1
It's also common to get the symptoms back, although they're not always caused by a yeast infection.
Sources for the information on this page:
- Sobel JD, Faro S, Force RW, et al. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: epidemiologic, diagnostic, and therapeutic considerations. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 1998; 178: 203-211. 9500475
- Spence D. Candidiasis (vulvovaginal). February 2007. Available at http://www.clinicalevidence.com (accessed on 21 January 2008).
This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice.
Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
