Why do I get yeast infections before my period?

Recurring yeast infections in the week before your period are a recognized pattern, and the mechanism is hormonal: the estrogen and progesterone shifts before bleeding change the vaginal environment - glycogen levels and pH - in ways that favor Candida overgrowth, right before the period arrives to reset things. womenshealth.gov notes yeast infection symptoms are itching, burning, and thick white discharge without much odor, and that hormonal changes are among the triggers. If yours flare like clockwork premenstrually, the hormone link is likely doing it. What to do about it: treat each episode properly - over-the-counter antifungal creams or a single-dose oral fluconazole from a doctor both work - and finish the course even as symptoms fade. For frequent recurrences, doctors can prescribe a longer suppression plan, and it is worth confirming the diagnosis at least once with a swab, because BV and other conditions imitate yeast - the clue is odor: fishy points to BV, not yeast. The contributors to strip away: scented soaps and douches - they disrupt the protective bacteria - tight synthetic underwear, lingering in wet clothes, and antibiotics when avoidable. Recurrent yeast infections can also flag uncontrolled blood sugar, so frequent flare-ups earn a diabetes check, especially with other risk factors. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text. Describe the timing and symptoms, and it can help you manage the pattern.