What are the common symptoms of male yeast infections. How are penile yeast infections diagnosed and treated. What factors increase the risk of developing a yeast infection in men. How can male yeast infections be prevented.

Understanding Male Yeast Infections: More Common Than You Think

Yeast infections are often associated with female health issues, but they can affect anyone, including individuals with a penis. These infections, primarily caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms and, if left untreated, potentially serious complications.

Male yeast infections, also known as penile yeast infections or candidiasis, are more common than many people realize. They can occur in men of all ages and backgrounds, regardless of sexual activity or hygiene practices. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial for early detection and effective management of these infections.

Recognizing the Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

Identifying the symptoms of a male yeast infection is the first step towards proper treatment. While some symptoms may be mild, others can be quite discomforting and should not be ignored. Common signs of a penile yeast infection include:

• Redness, soreness, or swelling of the penis
• White, shiny patches on the penile skin
• Small red spots on the penis, particularly at the tip
• Cracked or irritated foreskin
• Thick, white discharge under the foreskin or in skin folds
• Difficulty retracting the foreskin
• Itching or burning sensation
• Discomfort during urination
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse

Is it possible to mistake these symptoms for other conditions? Indeed, some of these symptoms can resemble those of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other penile disorders. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis rather than attempting self-diagnosis or treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors: Why Male Yeast Infections Occur

Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with male yeast infections can help in prevention and early intervention. The primary culprit behind these infections is the fungus Candida, which naturally exists in small amounts on the skin and mucous membranes. However, certain conditions can lead to an overgrowth of this fungus, resulting in an infection.

What factors contribute to the development of male yeast infections? Several elements can increase the risk:

• Poor personal hygiene
• Weakened immune system due to medications or health conditions
• Prolonged use of antibiotics
• Wearing wet clothing or tight-fitting underwear
• Use of irritating skin products or soaps
• Diabetes
• Use of lubricated condoms
• Being uncircumcised
• Obesity
• Sexual contact with a partner who has a yeast infection

Do all men have an equal risk of developing yeast infections? While any man can potentially develop a yeast infection, those with compromised immune systems, diabetes, or who are uncircumcised may be at a higher risk. Additionally, men who engage in unprotected sexual activity with a partner who has a vaginal yeast infection are more susceptible to developing a penile yeast infection.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Navigating the Path to Relief

Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of male yeast infections. Healthcare providers typically diagnose these infections through a combination of physical examination and laboratory tests. During a medical consultation, the doctor will likely:

1. Ask about your symptoms and medical history
2. Perform a physical examination of your genitals
3. Collect a sample of any discharge for microscopic analysis
4. Potentially order additional tests to rule out other conditions

Once diagnosed, how are male yeast infections typically treated? In most cases, topical antifungal medications are the first line of defense. These may include:

• Miconazole (Lotrimin AF, Cruex, Desenex, Ting Antifungal)
• Imidazole (Canesten, Selezen)
• Clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF, Anti-Fungal, Cruex, Desenex)

Many of these medications are available over-the-counter, making treatment accessible for most men. However, in more severe or persistent cases, prescription-strength medications may be necessary. Oral antifungal medications, such as fluconazole (Diflucan), might be prescribed for more serious infections or those that don’t respond to topical treatments.

Preventing Male Yeast Infections: Proactive Measures for Better Health

While not all yeast infections can be prevented, there are several steps men can take to reduce their risk:

• Practice good personal hygiene, including regular washing and thorough drying of the genital area
• Wear breathable, loose-fitting underwear
• Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, including promptly changing out of wet clothing
• Use mild, unscented soaps and skin products
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen to support overall immune function
• Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, effectively
• Use protection during sexual activity, especially if your partner has a yeast infection

Can dietary changes help prevent yeast infections? While there’s no definitive evidence, some studies suggest that probiotics and a diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates may help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in the body.

Recurrent Yeast Infections: When the Problem Persists

For some men, yeast infections can be a recurring issue. Recurrent infections may require a different approach to treatment and prevention. If you experience frequent yeast infections, your healthcare provider might recommend:

• A longer course of antifungal treatment
• Regular preventive treatments
• Further testing to identify any underlying health issues
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors

In rare cases, particularly for uncircumcised men with persistent infections, adult circumcision might be considered as a treatment option. However, this is typically only recommended after other treatments have failed and should be thoroughly discussed with a healthcare provider.

The Impact of Yeast Infections on Sexual Health and Relationships

Yeast infections can have a significant impact on a man’s sexual health and relationships. The discomfort and symptoms associated with these infections can lead to:

• Decreased sexual desire
• Pain or discomfort during sexual activity
• Anxiety or self-consciousness about symptoms
• Strain on intimate relationships

How should men approach sexual activity during a yeast infection? It’s generally recommended to avoid sexual intercourse until the infection has cleared up. This helps prevent discomfort and reduces the risk of transmitting the infection to a partner. Open communication with sexual partners about the condition is also important for maintaining healthy relationships.

Yeast Infections and Overall Health: Connections and Considerations

While yeast infections are often localized to the genital area, they can sometimes be indicative of broader health issues. For instance, recurrent yeast infections may signal:

• An undiagnosed or poorly managed case of diabetes
• A weakened immune system
• Hormonal imbalances
• Other underlying health conditions

Therefore, it’s crucial to view yeast infections not just as isolated incidents but as potential indicators of overall health. Regular check-ups and open discussions with healthcare providers can help identify and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to recurrent infections.

The Role of Probiotics in Managing Yeast Infections

Probiotics have gained attention for their potential role in preventing and managing yeast infections. These beneficial bacteria may help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the body, potentially reducing the risk of Candida overgrowth.

Can probiotics effectively prevent or treat male yeast infections? While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains may help:

• Strengthen the immune system
• Reduce the risk of Candida overgrowth
• Support the effectiveness of antifungal treatments

However, it’s important to note that probiotics should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding probiotics or any supplements to your health regimen.

The Psychological Impact of Male Yeast Infections

The physical symptoms of yeast infections can be accompanied by psychological effects that shouldn’t be overlooked. Men experiencing yeast infections may feel:

• Embarrassment or shame
• Anxiety about sexual performance or relationships
• Frustration, especially with recurrent infections
• Concerns about their overall health

How can men cope with the psychological aspects of yeast infections? Open communication with healthcare providers and partners, seeking accurate information about the condition, and understanding that yeast infections are common and treatable can help alleviate some of these psychological burdens. In some cases, speaking with a mental health professional may be beneficial, particularly for men dealing with recurrent infections or significant anxiety related to the condition.

Navigating Intimacy During and After Yeast Infections

Maintaining intimacy in relationships can be challenging when dealing with yeast infections. Here are some strategies for navigating this aspect:

• Communicate openly with your partner about the infection and any discomfort
• Explore non-penetrative forms of intimacy during treatment
• Practice safe sex, including using condoms, once treatment is complete
• Be patient and understanding with yourself and your partner

How long should couples wait before resuming sexual activity after a yeast infection? It’s generally recommended to wait until all symptoms have cleared and the full course of treatment has been completed. This typically takes about a week, but can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment used.

The Future of Male Yeast Infection Treatment and Prevention

Research into yeast infections continues to evolve, with new treatments and preventive strategies on the horizon. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Development of more effective antifungal medications
• Exploration of natural remedies and their efficacy
• Investigation into the role of the microbiome in preventing yeast infections
• Advancements in rapid diagnostic techniques

What potential breakthroughs might we see in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific advancements, the focus on personalized medicine and understanding individual risk factors may lead to more targeted prevention and treatment strategies for male yeast infections.

As research progresses, it’s important for men to stay informed about new developments and to discuss any new treatment options with their healthcare providers. The landscape of male yeast infection management is likely to continue evolving, offering hope for more effective prevention and treatment in the future.

Male Yeast Infection: Symptoms, Treatment, and More

Penile yeast infections can create a range of uncomfortable symptoms, but are often treated quickly by OTC medications, and can be reduced by taking certain steps, such as practicing proper hygiene.

A yeast infection is often thought of as a female health problem, but it can affect anyone, including people with a penis.

A penile yeast infection can lead to a wide range of painful and uncomfortable symptoms if not treated. It can also lead to serious complications if the infection spreads to your bloodstream.

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can often clear up a yeast infection, and some basic prevention steps can help you avoid this fairly common condition.

Some of the most common symptoms of a penile yeast infection include:

• redness, soreness, or swelling of the penis
• white, shiny patches at the top of the penis
• small red spots at the top of the penis
• cracked foreskin
• thick, white discharge under the foreskin or other folds of skin
• difficulty pulling back the foreskin
• itchiness
• burning sensation during urination
• pain or discomfort during sex

Redness, itchiness, and pain in the penis can be signs of other more serious conditions, like some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so do not ignore symptoms once they appear.

A urologist or primary care doctor can diagnose the condition, often in a single appointment.

A yeast infection is usually caused by a fungus called candida. A small amount of candida is usually present in the body. All it takes is an overgrowth of candida to develop a yeast infection.

A moist environment is ideal for candida to spread, according to 2018 research.

Having sex with a person who has a vaginal yeast infection without using a condom can also cause a penile yeast infection. However, you can also develop an infection without sexual activity.

Aside from sex with a partner who has a yeast infection, several other risk factors can increase your odds of developing a penile yeast infection, such as:

• not cleaning your genitals or bathing regularly
• having a weakened immune function due to certain medications or health conditions
• using antibiotics long term
• wearing wet clothing or tight-fitting underwear
• using skin products or soaps that cause skin irritation
• having diabetes
• using lubricated condoms
• being uncircumcised
• having obesity

Once you make an appointment, a doctor will ask you about your symptoms and likely examine your genitals. Some of the white substance that forms on the penis may be examined under a microscope to confirm the type of fungus causing the symptoms, according to 2022 research.

If you cannot get in to see a doctor or a urologist, consider a visit to an urgent care center or the emergency room. The earlier the problem is diagnosed and treatment begins, the more likely it is you can avoid complications.

It’s not recommended for a person to diagnose themselves and start treatment on their own. If symptoms of a yeast infection are present, contact a doctor. If symptoms are allowed to persist, complications can become very uncomfortable.

In most cases, topical antifungal ointments and creams are enough to clear up an infection. Some of the antifungal creams recommended for a yeast infection include:

• miconazole (Lotrimin AF, Cruex, Desenex, Ting Antifungal)
• imidazole (Canesten, Selezen)
• clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF, Anti-Fungal, Cruex, Desenex, Lotrimin AF Ringworm)

Most of these are available as OTC medications, which means you will not need a prescription. More serious or long-term infections may require prescription-strength medication.

Oral fluconazole (Diflucan) and hydrocortisone cream may be advised in serious infections, like those that have developed into a potentially serious condition called balanitis.

Most antifungal creams are well tolerated and unlikely to cause any serious side effects. Check the label, however, and ask a doctor and pharmacist what to look out for in case you have a bad reaction.

Recurrent yeast infections

Yeast infections sometimes return after they seem to have been cured. If this happens, your doctor will likely recommend a few weeks of daily treatments followed by a few months of weekly treatments.

In some cases, treatment for recurrent yeast infections can last up to 6 months.

If your infection does not respond well to an antifungal ointment and you are uncircumcised, you may be advised to have an adult male circumcision, according to 2016 research. Though this surgical procedure is usually done on infants, it can be done safely on people of any age.

Diabetes and yeast infections

Factors like diabetes and a suppressed immune system may contribute to your yeast infection risk, according to 2019 research.

If you have diabetes, work with a healthcare professional to make sure your blood sugar levels are well-managed. If you have a suppressed immune system, a doctor can recommend ways to help keep your immune system as healthy as possible.

If left untreated, a penile yeast infection can lead to some serious complications.

Balanitis

One of the potential complications of a penile yeast infection is balanitis. Balanitis is an inflammation of the foreskin or head of the penis. Diabetes can increase your risk for balanitis.

If balanitis is not treated effectively, scarring of the foreskin can occur. It can also cause adhesions on the penis.

Balanitis can be painful and make urinating more difficult. If untreated, it can cause swollen and painful glands as well as weakness and fatigue.

Invasive candidiasis

A yeast infection may enter the bloodstream. This is known as candidemia or invasive candidiasis.

This is most common in people who wait to receive treatment until the infection has spread beyond the penis. It is also more common in those with weakened immune systems.

If you’ve been in a hospital and used a catheter to urinate, you may be more likely to face invasive candidiasis. This advanced form of yeast infection is very serious.

Oral antifungal medications may be needed for several weeks. In some cases, the drugs are administered intravenously.

If your infection is treated early and responds well to antifungal medication, it can clear up within 7 to 14 days.

If you are sexually active, your partner should also be treated for a yeast infection to avoid passing the infection on to them, or back to you.

If you get repeated yeast infections and can rule out causes like hygiene and sexual contact, talk with a doctor about other possible causes. You may have an underlying health condition, such as diabetes.

You can help prevent a penile yeast infection by avoiding sexual contact with a partner who has a yeast infection.

You should also avoid having sex with anyone while you have an active yeast infection, as you could pass the infection back to your partner. This could cause the two of you to pass an infection back and forth.

To lower the risk of getting a yeast infection or passing one along, do the following:

• Wear an external condom each time you have sex to help reduce your chances of developing a yeast infection.
• Practice good hygiene, and keep your penis and genitals clean and dry.
• If you are uncircumcised, clean under the foreskin with soap and water, and return your foreskin to its usual position after you have sexual intercourse.

Penile yeast infections are not as common as vaginal yeast infections, but they do occur. They may result from poor hygiene or sex with a partner who has a vaginal yeast infection without using an external condom.

Symptoms include small white patches and redness on the skin as well as itchiness or burning. If left untreated, it can also cause other conditions and complications.

Topical antifungal ointments and creams can typically treat the infection and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Male Yeast Infection: Symptoms, Treatment, and More

Penile yeast infections can create a range of uncomfortable symptoms, but are often treated quickly by OTC medications, and can be reduced by taking certain steps, such as practicing proper hygiene.

A yeast infection is often thought of as a female health problem, but it can affect anyone, including people with a penis.

A penile yeast infection can lead to a wide range of painful and uncomfortable symptoms if not treated. It can also lead to serious complications if the infection spreads to your bloodstream.

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can often clear up a yeast infection, and some basic prevention steps can help you avoid this fairly common condition.

Some of the most common symptoms of a penile yeast infection include:

• redness, soreness, or swelling of the penis
• white, shiny patches at the top of the penis
• small red spots at the top of the penis
• cracked foreskin
• thick, white discharge under the foreskin or other folds of skin
• difficulty pulling back the foreskin
• itchiness
• burning sensation during urination
• pain or discomfort during sex

Redness, itchiness, and pain in the penis can be signs of other more serious conditions, like some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so do not ignore symptoms once they appear.

A urologist or primary care doctor can diagnose the condition, often in a single appointment.

A yeast infection is usually caused by a fungus called candida. A small amount of candida is usually present in the body. All it takes is an overgrowth of candida to develop a yeast infection.

A moist environment is ideal for candida to spread, according to 2018 research.

Having sex with a person who has a vaginal yeast infection without using a condom can also cause a penile yeast infection. However, you can also develop an infection without sexual activity.

Aside from sex with a partner who has a yeast infection, several other risk factors can increase your odds of developing a penile yeast infection, such as:

• not cleaning your genitals or bathing regularly
• having a weakened immune function due to certain medications or health conditions
• using antibiotics long term
• wearing wet clothing or tight-fitting underwear
• using skin products or soaps that cause skin irritation
• having diabetes
• using lubricated condoms
• being uncircumcised
• having obesity

Once you make an appointment, a doctor will ask you about your symptoms and likely examine your genitals. Some of the white substance that forms on the penis may be examined under a microscope to confirm the type of fungus causing the symptoms, according to 2022 research.

If you cannot get in to see a doctor or a urologist, consider a visit to an urgent care center or the emergency room. The earlier the problem is diagnosed and treatment begins, the more likely it is you can avoid complications.

It’s not recommended for a person to diagnose themselves and start treatment on their own. If symptoms of a yeast infection are present, contact a doctor. If symptoms are allowed to persist, complications can become very uncomfortable.

In most cases, topical antifungal ointments and creams are enough to clear up an infection. Some of the antifungal creams recommended for a yeast infection include:

• miconazole (Lotrimin AF, Cruex, Desenex, Ting Antifungal)
• imidazole (Canesten, Selezen)
• clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF, Anti-Fungal, Cruex, Desenex, Lotrimin AF Ringworm)

Most of these are available as OTC medications, which means you will not need a prescription. More serious or long-term infections may require prescription-strength medication.

Oral fluconazole (Diflucan) and hydrocortisone cream may be advised in serious infections, like those that have developed into a potentially serious condition called balanitis.

Most antifungal creams are well tolerated and unlikely to cause any serious side effects. Check the label, however, and ask a doctor and pharmacist what to look out for in case you have a bad reaction.

Recurrent yeast infections

Yeast infections sometimes return after they seem to have been cured. If this happens, your doctor will likely recommend a few weeks of daily treatments followed by a few months of weekly treatments.

In some cases, treatment for recurrent yeast infections can last up to 6 months.

If your infection does not respond well to an antifungal ointment and you are uncircumcised, you may be advised to have an adult male circumcision, according to 2016 research. Though this surgical procedure is usually done on infants, it can be done safely on people of any age.

Diabetes and yeast infections

Factors like diabetes and a suppressed immune system may contribute to your yeast infection risk, according to 2019 research.

If you have diabetes, work with a healthcare professional to make sure your blood sugar levels are well-managed. If you have a suppressed immune system, a doctor can recommend ways to help keep your immune system as healthy as possible.

If left untreated, a penile yeast infection can lead to some serious complications.

Balanitis

One of the potential complications of a penile yeast infection is balanitis. Balanitis is an inflammation of the foreskin or head of the penis. Diabetes can increase your risk for balanitis.

If balanitis is not treated effectively, scarring of the foreskin can occur. It can also cause adhesions on the penis.

Balanitis can be painful and make urinating more difficult. If untreated, it can cause swollen and painful glands as well as weakness and fatigue.

Invasive candidiasis

A yeast infection may enter the bloodstream. This is known as candidemia or invasive candidiasis.

This is most common in people who wait to receive treatment until the infection has spread beyond the penis. It is also more common in those with weakened immune systems.

If you’ve been in a hospital and used a catheter to urinate, you may be more likely to face invasive candidiasis. This advanced form of yeast infection is very serious.

Oral antifungal medications may be needed for several weeks. In some cases, the drugs are administered intravenously.

If your infection is treated early and responds well to antifungal medication, it can clear up within 7 to 14 days.

If you are sexually active, your partner should also be treated for a yeast infection to avoid passing the infection on to them, or back to you.

If you get repeated yeast infections and can rule out causes like hygiene and sexual contact, talk with a doctor about other possible causes. You may have an underlying health condition, such as diabetes.

You can help prevent a penile yeast infection by avoiding sexual contact with a partner who has a yeast infection.

You should also avoid having sex with anyone while you have an active yeast infection, as you could pass the infection back to your partner. This could cause the two of you to pass an infection back and forth.

To lower the risk of getting a yeast infection or passing one along, do the following:

• Wear an external condom each time you have sex to help reduce your chances of developing a yeast infection.
• Practice good hygiene, and keep your penis and genitals clean and dry.
• If you are uncircumcised, clean under the foreskin with soap and water, and return your foreskin to its usual position after you have sexual intercourse.

Penile yeast infections are not as common as vaginal yeast infections, but they do occur. They may result from poor hygiene or sex with a partner who has a vaginal yeast infection without using an external condom.

Symptoms include small white patches and redness on the skin as well as itchiness or burning. If left untreated, it can also cause other conditions and complications.

Topical antifungal ointments and creams can typically treat the infection and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Inexpensive and effective tablets for thrush for men and women

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED. Thrush

Author of the article

Khokhrina Kristina Sergeevna, pharmacist

All authors

Content of the article

• For women 9 0014
• For men
• Ask an expert on the topic of the article

Antibiotics, hormones, immunosuppressants help in the treatment of serious diseases. But with irrational or prolonged use, they can be harmful. They disrupt the composition of the intestinal microflora, weaken the immune system, and then mushrooms enter the “scene”. The most common fungal infection is candidiasis, which is caused by yeast-like fungi Candida . In a small amount, they are present in the human body, but when the immune system is weakened, they begin to multiply actively. For example, Candida albicans in 95% of cases is the cause of thrush in women.

Pharmacist Kristina Khokhrina talks about pills that are used to treat candidiasis in men and women.

For women

Thrush or vulvovaginal candidiasis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the genital tract caused by a fungus of the genus Candida . The “folk” name of the disease comes from the manifestation of the disease in the form of white curdled discharge. Another characteristic symptom of candidiasis is severe itching and burning in the vulva and vagina. Thrush does not go away on its own; effective and inexpensive drugs in dosage forms have been developed for its treatment:

• oral tablets: Fluconazole, Itraconazole
• topical antimycotics: vaginal suppositories, creams, tablets: Clotrimazole, Pimafucin, Zalain

Oral thrush tablets have advantages and disadvantages over topical medication.

Pros :

• high efficiency
• work in all lesions that can cause a recurrence of the disease, but are not amenable to topical agents
• they can be taken during menstruation
• comfort and ease of reception

Cons :

• serious side effects
• interaction with other drugs in the body

We list drugs in the form of tablets and capsules that are prescribed for the treatment of thrush:

• Diflucan, Fluconazole, Flucostat – the active substance is fluconazole
• Irunin, Orungal, Rumikoz – active substance itraconazole
• Pimafucin, Ecofucin – active ingredient natamycin
• Medicine with fluconazole is considered by doctors as the drug of choice for thrush. It is most active against Candida and well tolerated. In acute candidiasis, a single dose of 150 mg of fluconazole is sufficient to cure.

All products Pimafucin 20 reviews

All products Diflucan 20 reviews

All products Irunin 25 reviews

All products Fluconazole 21 reviews

For men

Candide oz or thrush in men is rare. Signs of the disease: redness, white coating on the glans penis, accumulations of a curdled appearance under the foreskin, severe itching and burning during urination.

Drugs for the treatment of candidiasis in men are practically the same as those used in women. Of course, with the exception of vaginal suppositories and tablets. Patients are prescribed external antifungal drugs – solutions, creams and ointments. If necessary, the treatment is supplemented with oral tablets.

Tablets help to quickly cure thrush, but may have a negative effect on the body. They can only be used as directed by a doctor.

Disease is easier to prevent than to cure. To prevent candidiasis, you need to strengthen the immune system, maintain the intestinal microflora, avoid stress and self-treatment, follow the rules of personal hygiene, be attentive to your health and the health of your sexual partner.

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what are there and how to choose

The human body is inhabited by many microorganisms that are in a state of necessary balance and coexistence with the host. This balance helps them mutually survive. Any shift in one direction or another, arising from an increase in the number of individual representatives of microorganisms, leads to a violation of the overall composition of the vaginal microflora, and as a result, the occurrence of diseases ¹ . So, with excessive reproduction of yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida, candidiasis (“thrush”) develops – an infectious disease of the mucous membranes and mycosis when the skin is damaged by this pathogen.

Fungal infection of the vulva and vagina is called vulvovaginal candidiasis.

In Russia, vaginal candidiasis ranks second among all infectious lesions of the vagina ² . In the United States and European countries, up to 13 million cases of this disease are registered annually ³ .

Symptoms of vaginal candidiasis (thrush)

As a rule, active reproduction of yeast-like fungi Candida is manifested by:

• itching and burning in the perineum
• swelling and severe redness 14
• vaginal discharge similar to cottage cheese
• pain during
• increased symptoms after showering, before menstruation and during pregnancy

In severe vulvovaginal candidiasis, small blisters with cloudy fluid, called “vesicles”, may appear. They can burst and form damage to the surface layer of the skin – the epithelium ⁴ .

Itching in the intimate area

Why does itching occur in the intimate area, and how to eliminate this unpleasant symptom?

Read more

Causes that provoke the appearance of thrush

Active reproduction of Candida fungi begins due to the influence of the following unfavorable factors, such as:

• Taking medications acceptives, corticosteroids, chemotherapy
• Chronic diseases accompanied by a decrease in immunity: oncology, chronic inflammation of the uterus
• Endocrine diseases : diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism synthetic tissues, use of an intrauterine device, damage to the tissues of the vagina
• Physiological : pregnancy, menopause
• Psychological : stress, chronic fatigue
• Other : dysbacteriosis, metabolic disorders, climate change, non-compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene

The presence of these factors is not a prerequisite for the occurrence of “ thrush “, but the likelihood of its occurrence and a more severe course of the disease significantly increases. Effective treatment should be complex, that is, not only suppress fungi Candida , but also eliminate the causes that provoked their growth.

Diagnosis of vaginal candidiasis

Diagnosis is carried out by a gynecologist based on visual examination, patient complaints and laboratory test results that identify the type of fungi, their number and response to various antifungal drugs. The combination of these methods allows you to choose the most effective treatment.

Vaginal candidiasis can be acute or chronic. The acute form of candidiasis is characterized by pronounced manifestations of the disease, and the duration does not exceed two months. If the treatment is chosen incorrectly, the disease may last longer or constantly return. Then the disease has a chronic course. Therefore, it is very important to choose the right drug for treatment, which will not cause fungi to become addicted to it.

How to treat vaginal candidiasis (thrush)?

For the treatment of thrush, both systemic agents (tablets for oral administration) and local agents are used, which are injected directly into the site of infection – vaginal suppositories and tablets, irrigation solutions, ointments.

The most commonly used in gynecological practice are vaginal suppositories, the main advantages of which are:0014

What are suppositories for thrush

The main difference between vaginal suppositories is a different active substance, due to which there are different therapeutic effects.

Conventionally, drugs that are part of suppositories for thrush can be divided into the following groups:0014

Consider the mechanisms of action and properties of suppositories based on the above drugs.

Candles against thrush based on antiseptics

Povidone-iodine (Betadine®)

Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic. It is a complex of iodine and povidone. Thanks to this formula, upon contact with the skin and mucous membranes, active iodine is gradually released from povidone, which ensures a long-term effect of the drug ⁵ .

The mechanism of action of the drug is based on the inactivation and destruction of the main proteins and enzymes that make up the cells of harmful microorganisms. As a result, a fungicidal effect occurs – the death of the fungus. Most pathogens can die within 1 minute ⁶ . Biofilms are combinations of microorganisms that create a protective “dome” that prevents the penetration of drugs. Candles Betadine ^® based on povidone-iodine demonstrate efficacy against such microorganisms that are capable of forming biofilms.

Often, the ineffectiveness of the treatment of thrush is associated with the “addiction” of fungi to a particular drug. According to the results of studies, povidone-iodine does not cause the development of resistance – the insensitivity of microorganisms to the effects of drugs ⁷ .

It happens that candidiasis (thrush) is combined with other infections, such as bacterial vaginosis. The wide spectrum of action of suppositories Betadine ^® allows you to treat even such concomitant diseases.

For the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, 1 suppository is inserted into the vagina at night for 7 days. Before treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor, as the drug has contraindications.

Thus, suppositories based on povidone-iodine (Betadine ^® ) meet the modern requirements of medicines. The drug in many patients demonstrates good tolerance ⁹ , and also supports the ability to restore the vaginal microflora ⁸ .

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Vaginal tablets based on dequalinium chloride

Dequalinium chloride is an antiseptic preparation, the mechanism of action of which is based on the disruption of the fungal cell enzymes, which subsequently leads to the death of the fungal cell.

The drug is active against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria , fungi and viruses. Has an anti-inflammatory effect.

For the treatment of thrush 1 vaginal tablet is administered intravaginally for 6 days ¹³ . You must complete the full course.

Disadvantages of the drug: in case of excessive dryness of the vagina, there is a possibility that the tablet will remain undissolved, local reactions of irritation, itching, burning or redness of the vaginal mucosa may be observed.

It should be noted that today there is a decrease in the effectiveness of a number of antiseptics with a chlorine-containing molecule ¹⁰ .

Suppositories for thrush based on preparations of the azole group

Suppositories based on sertaconazole

Sertaconazole is a derivative of imidazole and benzothiophene. The drug is active against yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida , streptococci and staphylococci ¹⁴ .

Sertaconazole has a triple effect : inhibits the growth and reproduction of fungi (fungistatic action), causes the death of fungi (fungicidal action) and does not suppress the viability of the main representatives of the normal vaginal microflora – beneficial lactobacilli.

When administered topically, sertaconazole has a direct effect on fungi in the lesion. At the same time, it is not absorbed into the bloodstream, which means a high safety profile of the drug.

Mechanism of action of sertaconazole is to inhibit the synthesis of ergosterol and increase the permeability of the fungal cell membrane, which leads to its death.

For the treatment of thrush, suppositories with sertaconazole are used 1 time by inserting 1 suppository into the vagina. If symptoms persist, it is possible to re-introduce 1 suppository after another 7 days.

Suppositories based on ketoconazole

Ketoconazole is an antimycotic (antifungal) drug of the azole group.

Mechanism of action has a fungistatic and fungicidal effect.

However, fungal resistance to ketoconazole may develop and the disease may become chronic with exacerbations.

For the treatment of thrush, 1 suppository is inserted into the vagina for 3-5 days ¹⁵ .

It is important to follow the treatment regimen prescribed by the doctor, since incomplete therapy can contribute to the development of a chronic form of the disease.

Anti-thrush suppositories based on polyene antibiotics

Natamycin suppositories

Natamycin is an antifungal polyene antibiotic. It has a wide spectrum of antifungal activity, causes the death of fungi.

The mechanism of action of natamycin is based on disruption of the integrity and functioning of fungal cell membranes. The drug is active against most yeast fungi of the genus Candida. Dermatophytes – molds have less sensitivity to natamycin.

Apply the drug by inserting one suppository into the vagina 1 time / day at night for 3-6 days ¹⁶ .

The duration of the course is determined by the attending physician. It is not recommended to interrupt treatment immediately after the disappearance of symptoms.

Suppositories for thrush based on combined preparations

Suppositories based on the combination of nystatin + nifuratel

Suppositories based on nystatin and nifuratel are antimicrobial agents. This combination allows you to increase the spectrum of antibacterial action and enhance the antifungal effect. Also, the drug has antimicrobial and antiprotozoal activity.

The agent does not disturb the vaginal microflora, but helps to restore it. This allows you to avoid the occurrence of dysbacteriosis and cure diseases caused by a violation of the vaginal flora.

In the treatment of thrush, 1 suppository at bedtime is inserted into the upper part of the vagina for 8 days. During menstruation, the use of suppositories is suspended and resumed after the completion of critical days.

Suppositories based on the combination of metronidazole + miconazole

Combination preparation for vaginal use with antifungal, antibacterial and antiprotozoal activity.

The combination of these drugs allows you to actively influence the membrane of fungal cells, causing their death, as well as treat infections caused by several microorganisms.

The agent is injected into the vagina 1 suppository in the morning and evening for 7 days. There may be a local reaction in the form of itching, burning, irritation of the vaginal mucosa.

Conclusion

Before using any suppositories, you should consult with your doctor, since each drug has contraindications and its own dosage regimen, depending on the individual characteristics of the course of the disease.

Of course, it is worth giving preference to preparations with a broad spectrum of activity against fungal biofilms that remain effective against even drug-resistant microorganisms (for example, suppositories Betadine ^® based on povidone-iodine, suppositories based on sertaconazole).

Molchanov Oleg Leonidovich

Gynecologist, reproductive specialist, doctor of medical sciences.

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