Summary about Disease
Vulvovaginal candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is a fungal infection of the vulva and vagina caused by an overgrowth of Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. It is a very common condition, affecting most women at some point in their lives. While often uncomfortable, it is usually not serious and can be treated effectively with antifungal medication.
Symptoms
Itching in the vaginal area
Soreness
Pain during urination or sexual intercourse
Thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge
Redness and swelling of the vulva
Rash
Causes
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is caused by an overgrowth of Candida. Factors that can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina and lead to overgrowth include:
Antibiotic use
Pregnancy
Uncontrolled diabetes
Weakened immune system
Use of oral contraceptives or hormone therapy
Douching
Use of scented feminine hygiene products
Medicine Used
Antifungal medications are used to treat vulvovaginal candidiasis. These are available in various forms:
Topical antifungals: Creams, ointments, or suppositories containing medications like clotrimazole, miconazole, or terconazole.
Oral antifungals: Fluconazole (Diflucan) is a common oral medication.
Is Communicable
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is generally not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be triggered by sexual activity in some cases. It is possible for Candida to be transmitted between partners during sexual contact, although it's more common for women to develop the infection due to other factors that disrupt their vaginal flora.
Precautions
Wear breathable cotton underwear.
Avoid tight-fitting pants or pantyhose.
Avoid douching and scented feminine hygiene products.
Change out of wet swimsuits or workout clothes promptly.
Control blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support a strong immune system.
Probiotics may help restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
How long does an outbreak last?
With proper treatment, most yeast infections clear up within a few days to two weeks. Topical treatments may take up to a week, while oral medications often provide relief within a few days.
How is it diagnosed?
A healthcare provider can diagnose vulvovaginal candidiasis through:
Pelvic exam: Visual inspection of the vulva, vagina, and cervix.
Vaginal discharge sample: Microscopic examination of a sample of vaginal discharge to identify Candida.
pH test: Testing the pH of the vagina.
Culture: In rare cases, a culture of the vaginal discharge may be taken to identify the specific type of Candida.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary, but generally follows this pattern:
Initial symptoms: Itching and mild discomfort may be the first signs.
Progression: Symptoms intensify over a few days, including increased itching, soreness, and discharge.
Peak: Symptoms are typically most severe after a few days of onset.
Resolution: With treatment, symptoms usually begin to improve within a few days and resolve completely within one to two weeks.
Important Considerations
Recurrent yeast infections (four or more infections per year) require medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions.
Some symptoms of yeast infections can be similar to those of other infections, so it's important to get an accurate diagnosis from a healthcare provider.
If symptoms do not improve with over-the-counter treatments, seek medical advice.
Men can get yeast infections, although it is not as common. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and a rash on the penis.
Pregnant women should consult their doctor before using any medications for yeast infections.