A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, most often Candida albicans. This fungus naturally lives in small amounts on the skin and in various parts of the body, including the vagina, mouth, and digestive tract, usually without causing issues. Many people assigned female at birth will experience a vaginal yeast infection at some point in their lives.
Typical Yeast Infection Symptoms
Abdominal pain is not a typical or direct symptom of a vaginal yeast infection. Instead, the symptoms are generally localized to the vaginal area and vulva, which is the tissue surrounding the vaginal opening.
These common signs include intense itching or burning in and around the vagina. There may also be redness and swelling of the vulva and vagina. A characteristic symptom is a thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge that often resembles cottage cheese. Some individuals might also experience pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse or while urinating. In more severe cases, the skin of the vulva can become fragile, leading to small cuts or tiny cracks. These symptoms are confined to the external genital area.
When Abdominal Pain Might Be Present
While not typical, there are less common scenarios where abdominal discomfort could occur in conjunction with or indirectly related to a yeast infection. Severe, untreated, or recurrent vaginal yeast infections can lead to significant localized inflammation and irritation. This prolonged irritation might result in a general feeling of pelvic pressure or discomfort, though it rarely manifests as sharp or severe abdominal pain.
A yeast infection might also co-occur with other conditions that do cause abdominal pain, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs can cause pelvic pain and share some symptoms with yeast infections, like a burning sensation during urination. In such instances, the abdominal pain originates from the UTI, not the yeast infection itself.
In extremely rare cases, a Candida infection could spread beyond the localized area, for instance, into the bloodstream, leading to invasive candidiasis. This systemic infection is more likely to affect individuals with weakened immune systems and can cause symptoms like fever and chills, and potentially impact internal organs.
Other Potential Causes of Abdominal Pain
Since vaginal yeast infections typically do not cause abdominal pain, it is helpful to consider other common causes of such discomfort. Abdominal pain can stem from gynecological issues, such as menstrual cramps or ovulation pain, which are very common. Ovarian cysts or conditions like endometriosis can also lead to lower abdominal pain.
Urinary tract issues, including UTIs or kidney stones, are frequent culprits for abdominal discomfort. Kidney stones can cause pain that radiates from the back to the lower abdomen or groin. Gastrointestinal problems are another significant source of abdominal pain, encompassing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, excessive gas, or food intolerances.
When to Seek Medical Care
If you are experiencing persistent or worsening abdominal pain, especially if you suspect a yeast infection, seeking professional medical advice is advisable. Severe abdominal pain, accompanied by symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting, warrants prompt medical attention. Unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge alongside abdominal pain should also prompt a visit to a healthcare provider.
Pregnant individuals experiencing abdominal pain should consult a doctor without delay. If over-the-counter yeast infection treatments do not alleviate symptoms within a few days, or if symptoms recur frequently, medical evaluation is recommended. Consulting a doctor ensures an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as self-diagnosis can be misleading, particularly when abdominal pain is present.