Can Stress Cause a Yeast Infection?In the summer of 2004, Psychologists Suzanne Segerstrom, Ph.D., and Gregory Miller, Ph.D. concluded: Stress has a powerful effect on the immune system. The two psychologists came to their conclusion after examining data collected from over 290 studies in the previous 30 years. Their conclusion came as a result of noting three key ideas:
A yeast infection occurs when Candida fungus is allowed to multiply and grow beyond control. Studies have shown that Candida fungus can be present in healthy individuals. These individuals' immune system is strong enough to counteract the fungus, and keeps it in check. The infection occurs when the balance of power between the immune system and Candida fungus is disrupted and favors the yeast. The body, unable to fight back, becomes infected. One of the most common causes of a yeast infection, therefore, is a weakened immune system. When it comes to women's health, there are a number of stresses that, over time, can weaken the immune system. Some of the most common stresses in women are as a result of: menstruation, menopause, pregnancy, juggling family, work and personal life and illness. It is easy to see why yeast infections affect women more often than men. As a result, it is important to remove as much stress as possible. As stated earlier, up to 75% of all women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their life. The key is to educate about the causes that are not as obvious as others, for example stress. |