Various conditions can cause vaginal symptoms similar to a yeast infection. A yeast infection is an overgrowth of yeast cells in the vagina that causes itching, irritation, and discharge. Symptoms are more common before a period and are usually caused by the Candida albicans yeast. Treatment involves antifungal medications applied internally or taken by mouth. Recurrent infections may require identifying an underlying condition favoring yeast overgrowth.