Vaginal candidiasis is an infection produced when the balance between our body’s defenses and the candida fungus, present on the skin and mucous membranes of the female genitalia, is altered.
The symptoms of this condition are varied and annoying, including manifestations such as itching or a burning sensation in the intimate area, which is why it is important to learn how to prevent vaginal candidiasis. However, if you have already contracted it, do not worry, because there are treatments for vaginal yeast infection and in this article we will explain what they are.
Causes of vaginal yeast infection
The person responsible for many of the vaginal infections is the fungus Candida albicans. The vagina is endowed with a balanced combination of fungi and bacteria, the bacteria prevent the fungus from reproducing rapidly, but if at any time the balance is disturbed, the candida can grow and penetrate deep cell layers, appearing the symptoms of a fungal infection.
The most common causes that increase the risk of suffering candidiasis are:
- Frequent or prolonged use of antibiotics: Antibiotics can kill off some harmful bacteria, but they can also kill off the healthy bacteria found in the vagina, leaving the way clear for yeast.
- Low immune system: A weak immune system as a result of an infection, prolonged treatment against some diseases or an autoimmune condition, is more prone to yeast infections.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes or inadequate blood sugar can increase the risk of yeast infection by creating immune function deficits.
- Elevated estrogen levels: high estrogen levels can enhance the appearance of candidiasis, since estrogen can produce glycogen that serves as a nutrient for microorganisms such as the candida fungus. High estrogen can be due to various situations such as pregnancy, taking birth control pills that contain high doses of estrogen, or hormonal treatments.
Symptoms of vaginal yeast infection
The most common symptoms of vaginal candidiasis, mild or moderate, are the following:
- Aches and pains in the vagina.
- Vaginal rashes and redness of the vulva.
- Burning sensations, mainly when urinating or having sexual intercourse.
- Watery or thick vaginal discharge.
- Itching sensations in the vagina and vulva.
- Irritations in the vagina and vulva.
Candidiasis can be aggravated in the following cases:
- In pregnant women, with weakened immune systems or with uncontrolled diabetes.
- In the case of infections caused by less common fungi.
What to do if we suspect vaginal candidiasis
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your body and you think you have vaginal candidiasis, it is necessary to change certain daily habits in addition to using intimate hygiene products specially indicated for the vaginal area.
This infection, on the other hand so common, can be very annoying. For this reason, if you have suspicions, go to your GP so that he can diagnose it and prescribe the most appropriate treatment according to your case.
Vaginal yeast infection treatment
Antifungals are basically used in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis . These are medications that eliminate fungus and can be found in different formats such as vaginal suppositories, oral capsules, or topical cream. The choice of one or the other will depend on the indications of your doctor.
Women suffer from candidiasis more manifestly, although men are also susceptible to contracting it, although the symptoms may go unnoticed. Candida yeast infection is not due to a sexually transmitted disease. However, the person with the infection can pass it on to her partner during sexual intercourse, so when a woman has a yeast infection, both she and her partner should be treated.
When vaginal candidiasis affects a pregnant woman as a result of changes in vaginal pH, topical treatments can be used safely, although it is recommended to consult a doctor beforehand.
How to prevent vaginal yeast infection
Vaginal yeast infection can be prevented. You just have to take into account some daily habits to adopt them in your routine:
- Cotton underwear and comfortable clothing: it is very important not to use tight clothing in the intimate area or synthetic fabrics. The most appropriate thing is to wear cotton underwear so that the area remains dry, free from heat and humidity, since this is the environment conducive to the development of the candida fungus.
- Intimate hygiene to take care of vaginal pH: it is essential to maintain adequate daily intimate hygiene through the use of special products for the vaginal area that help maintain the delicate pH of the area. The Durex Íntima Protect range has been specially developed for the delicate intimate area, with products that help balance the vaginal pH and reduce discomfort in order to provide the care that the vaginal area needs.
- Keep this area dry : we must do everything possible to keep the vaginal area dry, avoiding any condition that favors humidity. For this reason, avoid staying in wet clothes for a long time and dry your intimate area well after bathing.
- Moderate the use of antibiotics : Unless directed by a doctor, do not take antibiotics. Some people use them for any cold or similar conditions, when their repeated use without medical supervision can be harmful.
- Vaginal prebiotics : when you find yourself in a specific circumstance in which the vaginal flora may be altered, such as antibiotic treatment, using vaginal prebiotics can help maintain the balance in this area. Within the range of Durex Íntima Protect products you will find the Balancing Intimate Gel, a 2-in-1 prebiotic gel that helps to balance the vaginal pH and hydrate the area, reducing discomfort. You can also opt for the Lubricant from the range, with a 2-in-1 prebiotic that not only favors the balance of vaginal pH but also relieves discomfort during sex.
