If you've ever suffered from a yeast infection, you're not alone—three out of four women will experience at least one in their lifetime. Then you're also familiar (maybe way more than you'd like to be) with yeast infection symptoms: redness, burning and swelling in the vaginal area, pain during sex and/or urination, and a thick, white discharge. For most women, these infections are a nuisance but can be treated easily with prescriptive anti-fungal creams, suppositories or tablets—or even over-the-counter medications. But for women who suffer chronic yeast infections, meaning four or more a year, treatment isn't so simple. A recurring "itch down there" is likely the result of medications and/or health issues. Here's what could be causing chronic yeast infections and what you can do about it.

Intestinal Troubles

Candida, a common type of yeast, is naturally found in the intestines along with healthy bacteria and enzymes that help to break down food. But some doctors believe that if you overload your diet with sugar and carbs (both of which yeast "feeds" off of), the level of yeast in the intestines can grow to an unhealthy level, causing everything from bloating, gas and bowl troubles to vaginal yeast infections and more.

Although "Chronic Candidiasis" or "Intestinal Yeast Infection Syndrome" isn't an official diagnosis and remains largely unrecognized in the U.S. (treatments are homeopathic, a.k.a. not FDA approved), books such as The Yeast Connection and The Yeast Syndrome have raised speculation that yeast in the intestines may be the cause of underlying health problems—vaginal yeast infections included.

Health tips: Some doctors suggest taking acidophilus tablets to help balance yeast levels and ward off infection. Other options: Eat yogurt with active cultures and cut sugary foods from your diet.