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Can u get a yeast infection from antibiotics. Antibiotic-Induced Yeast Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

How do antibiotics contribute to yeast infections. What are the common symptoms of a yeast infection. Which antibiotics are most likely to cause yeast infections. How can antibiotic-induced yeast infections be treated effectively.

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The Link Between Antibiotics and Yeast Infections

Antibiotics are crucial for treating bacterial infections, but they can sometimes lead to unintended consequences, such as yeast infections. These fungal overgrowths, primarily caused by Candida species, occur when the delicate balance of microorganisms in the vagina is disrupted.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics, which target a wide range of bacteria, are particularly prone to causing this imbalance. By eliminating both harmful and beneficial bacteria, these medications can create an environment where yeast can thrive unchecked.

How Antibiotics Disrupt Vaginal Flora

The vagina normally hosts a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, including various bacteria and yeast. Beneficial bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus species, play a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health by:

  • Producing lactic acid to maintain an acidic pH
  • Secreting hydrogen peroxide, which inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms
  • Competing with potential pathogens for nutrients and space

When antibiotics eliminate these beneficial bacteria, the natural defense mechanisms of the vagina are compromised, allowing opportunistic yeast to multiply rapidly.

Identifying Yeast Infection Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of a yeast infection is crucial for prompt treatment. While the intensity may vary, common signs include:

  • Intense itching and irritation in and around the vagina
  • A burning sensation, especially during intercourse or urination
  • Redness and swelling of the vulva
  • Thick, white, odorless discharge resembling cottage cheese
  • Soreness and rash in the vaginal area

It’s important to note that these symptoms can sometimes be confused with other vaginal infections or conditions. Therefore, consulting a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis is essential, especially if it’s your first yeast infection or if symptoms persist despite over-the-counter treatment.

Differentiating Yeast Infections from Other Vaginal Conditions

Yeast infections share some symptoms with other vaginal conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. Key differences include:

  • Odor: Yeast infections typically don’t produce a strong odor, unlike bacterial vaginosis
  • Discharge color: The white, clumpy discharge of yeast infections differs from the grayish, watery discharge of bacterial vaginosis or the yellowish-green discharge of trichomoniasis
  • Itching intensity: Yeast infections often cause more intense itching compared to other vaginal infections

If you’re unsure about your symptoms, it’s always best to seek professional medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Antibiotics Most Likely to Cause Yeast Infections

While any antibiotic has the potential to disrupt vaginal flora, certain types are more commonly associated with yeast infections. These include:

1. Tetracyclines

Tetracyclines are broad-spectrum antibiotics used to treat various bacterial infections. Common examples include:

  • Doxycycline (Vibramycin, Oracea)
  • Minocycline (Minocin)
  • Tetracycline (Sumycin)

These antibiotics are often prescribed for acne, respiratory tract infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections.

2. Quinolones

Quinolones are another class of broad-spectrum antibiotics frequently linked to yeast infections. Examples include:

  • Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
  • Levofloxacin (Levaquin)
  • Moxifloxacin (Avelox)

These medications are commonly used to treat urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and certain gastrointestinal infections.

3. Broad-spectrum Penicillins

Some penicillin-based antibiotics, particularly those with a broader spectrum of activity, can increase the risk of yeast infections. These include:

  • Amoxicillin (Amoxil)
  • Ampicillin

These antibiotics are frequently prescribed for respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections.

Risk Factors for Antibiotic-Induced Yeast Infections

While antibiotics are a significant risk factor for yeast infections, certain individuals may be more susceptible. Understanding these risk factors can help in taking preventive measures:

  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of yeast infections
  • Diabetes: Elevated blood sugar levels create an environment conducive to yeast growth
  • Immunosuppression: Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system can make it harder to fight off yeast overgrowth
  • Hormonal contraceptives: Birth control pills can alter vaginal pH and bacterial balance
  • Previous history of yeast infections: Some individuals are naturally more prone to recurrent infections

If you fall into any of these high-risk categories, it’s crucial to discuss potential preventive strategies with your healthcare provider when prescribed antibiotics.

Effective Treatments for Antibiotic-Induced Yeast Infections

Treating a yeast infection caused by antibiotics typically involves antifungal medications. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and individual factors.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments

For mild to moderate infections, OTC antifungal medications are often effective. These include:

  • Miconazole (Monistat)
  • Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin)
  • Tioconazole (Vagistat)

These medications come in various forms, including creams, suppositories, and tablets. Treatment duration typically ranges from 1 to 7 days, depending on the specific product and dosage strength.

Prescription Treatments

For more severe or recurrent infections, prescription antifungal medications may be necessary. These often include:

  • Fluconazole (Diflucan): An oral medication typically taken as a single dose
  • Terconazole: A prescription-strength vaginal cream or suppository

In some cases, a longer course of treatment or a combination of oral and topical medications may be prescribed.

Preventing Yeast Infections During Antibiotic Treatment

While it’s not always possible to prevent a yeast infection when taking antibiotics, certain strategies may help reduce the risk:

  • Probiotics: Taking probiotic supplements or consuming probiotic-rich foods may help maintain a healthy vaginal flora
  • Avoid douching: This practice can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal microorganisms
  • Wear breathable underwear: Cotton underwear allows better air circulation, reducing moisture that yeast thrives in
  • Practice good hygiene: Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent introducing bacteria from the anal area to the vagina
  • Avoid scented products: Fragranced soaps, detergents, and feminine hygiene products can irritate the vaginal area

If you have a history of yeast infections or are at high risk, your healthcare provider might recommend prophylactic antifungal treatment to be taken alongside your antibiotic course.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many yeast infections can be treated effectively with OTC medications, there are situations where professional medical advice is necessary:

  • If it’s your first suspected yeast infection
  • If symptoms persist after completing OTC treatment
  • If you experience frequent or recurrent yeast infections
  • If you’re pregnant
  • If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system
  • If you’re unsure whether your symptoms indicate a yeast infection or another condition

A healthcare provider can perform tests to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

The Impact of Yeast Infections on Quality of Life

While not typically serious, yeast infections can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. The discomfort, itching, and potential pain during intercourse can cause physical and emotional distress. Understanding this impact is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers in managing these infections effectively.

Psychological Effects

Recurring yeast infections can lead to:

  • Anxiety about future infections
  • Decreased self-esteem
  • Stress in intimate relationships
  • Frustration with ongoing symptoms

Addressing these psychological aspects is an important part of comprehensive care for individuals prone to yeast infections.

Sexual Health Considerations

Yeast infections can interfere with sexual activity due to discomfort and concerns about transmission. While yeast infections are not typically considered sexually transmitted infections, they can occasionally be passed between sexual partners. Open communication with partners and healthcare providers is essential for managing these concerns effectively.

Emerging Research and Future Directions

The field of vaginal health and the impact of antibiotics on the microbiome is an area of ongoing research. Some promising avenues include:

  • Development of more targeted antibiotics that preserve beneficial bacteria
  • Advanced probiotic formulations specifically designed to support vaginal health
  • Improved diagnostic tools for rapid and accurate identification of vaginal infections
  • Investigation into the role of the vaginal microbiome in overall health and disease prevention

These research directions hold the potential to revolutionize how we prevent and treat antibiotic-induced yeast infections, potentially reducing their occurrence and improving outcomes for affected individuals.

The Role of Personalized Medicine

As our understanding of individual microbiomes grows, there’s increasing interest in personalized approaches to preventing and treating yeast infections. This may involve:

  • Tailored probiotic recommendations based on an individual’s specific microbiome composition
  • Customized antibiotic prescribing practices that take into account a person’s history of yeast infections and other risk factors
  • Individualized prevention strategies based on genetic and environmental factors

These personalized approaches hold promise for more effective management of antibiotic-induced yeast infections in the future.

Understanding the complex relationship between antibiotics and yeast infections empowers individuals to take proactive steps in maintaining their vaginal health. By recognizing the signs of infection, understanding risk factors, and knowing when to seek medical attention, it’s possible to minimize the impact of these common but troublesome infections. As research continues to advance our knowledge in this area, we can look forward to even more effective strategies for preventing and treating antibiotic-induced yeast infections, ultimately improving quality of life for those affected.

Yeast infection from antibiotics: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Taking certain antibiotics may lead to a yeast infection in the vagina, also known as a fungal infection or vaginal candidiasis.

A yeast infection is a form of vaginitis, which means inflammation in the vagina. Vaginitis is the most common vaginal condition in people aged 15–44.

Vaginal candidiasis, caused by Candida fungus, is the second most common type of vaginal infection in the United States, after bacterial infections.

This article examines how taking antibiotics can sometimes lead to yeast infections. It also describes which antibiotics can cause these infections and how to treat them.

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

Was this helpful?

A yeast infection occurs when something upsets the delicate balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina.

A small amount of Candida fungus is usually present in the vagina, and beneficial bacteria help keep this fungus under control.

Antibiotics work by killing bacteria that cause infection, but they can also kill beneficial bacteria in other parts of the body, including the vagina.

Without enough beneficial bacteria to keep the yeast at bay, Candida yeast can multiply, causing the symptoms of a yeast infection.

Some people are more prone to yeast infections than others. According to current estimates, 8% of females have recurring Candida infections, and around 70% of females report dealing with this condition at least once in their lifetime.

Yeast infections can develop at any age, but these infections are more common during reproductive years.

The common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection tend to be more noticeable just before menstruation. A person may experience:

  • an itchy sensation on and around the vulva, which is the area outside the vagina
  • a burning sensation on or around the vulva
  • white, lumpy, odorless vaginal discharge
  • pain during sex
  • pain or discomfort while urinating
  • an increase in vaginal discharge

These symptoms are mild in most cases. In severe infections, redness, swelling, or cracks form in the walls of the vagina.

It can be difficult to distinguish between a yeast infection and a urinary tract infection (UTI). Learn to tell the difference here.

Not all antibiotics are likely to cause yeast infections — only broad-spectrum antibiotics tend to have this effect. These drugs can kill several different types of bacteria.

The following three types of broad-spectrum antibiotic, in particular, may increase the risk of a yeast infection:

Tetracyclines

Doctors prescribe tetracyclines for acne, UTIs, intestinal tract infections, eye infections, sexually transmitted infections, and gum disease.

Examples of tetracyclines and common brand names include:

  • demeclocycline (Detravis)
  • doxycycline (Adoxa)
  • eravacycline (Xerava)
  • minocycline (Minocin)
  • omadacycline (Nuzyra)
  • tetracycline (Sumycin)

Quinolones

Doctors prescribe quinolones for difficult-to-treat UTIs, hospital-acquired pneumonia, and bacterial prostatitis. Common examples include:

  • ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
  • levofloxacin (Levaquin)
  • moxifloxacin (Avelox)

Broad-spectrum penicillins

Broad-spectrum penicillins, such as ampicillin and amoxicillin, may also lead to yeast infections.

Yeast infections are common, but a few circumstances may make it more likely a person will develop one. These circumstances include:

  • pregnancy
  • hormone contraceptive use, such as birth control pills
  • diabetes
  • a weakened immune system due to factors such as chemotherapy treatment or HIV infection

If a person is living with one of these risk factors, they should talk with their doctor if they have been prescribed antibiotics, as there can be an increased risk of yeast infection.

While yeast infections are more common among sexually active people, there is no evidence that they are sexually transmitted.

Treating a yeast infection is usually a straightforward process. In most cases, a person will either apply a cream or ointment to the inside of the vagina or take a pill containing an antifungal medicine, such as fluconazole or miconazole.

A doctor can prescribe antifungal creams or tablets. People can also find over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal vaginal creams at drugstores, or online.

Some infections, such as recurring chronic infections, may require stronger treatment. In this case, a doctor may recommend additional doses of fluconazole or creams that contain boric acid, nystatin, or flucytosine.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that anyone who suspects they have vaginal candidiasis speak with a healthcare professional. This is because the symptoms are similar to those of other vaginal infections, which require different treatments.

A healthcare professional can ensure that a person gets the right medication for the infection. To identify vaginal candidiasis, they usually take a small sample of vaginal discharge for examination under a microscope.

Pregnancy and fluconazole

Pregnant people may want to avoid treating yeast infections with fluconazole due to the risk of birth abnormalities. According to an older safety announcement from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a single 150-microgram dose of fluconazole may not cause this effect, but taking it for longer periods or at a higher dosage carries this risk.

While a 2013 study did not find a significantly increased risk of birth abnormalities when pregnant people took fluconazole, a more recent cohort study from 2020 did find an association with fluconazole use during the first trimester and musculoskeletal malformations.

Pregnant individuals managing a yeast infection should discuss with their doctor about the risks of fluconazole, and other alternative treatments.

People can help prevent vaginal candidiasis by taking antibiotics only when they are necessary. It is worth remembering that antibiotics do not work on viral infections, such as a cold or the flu.

Antibiotics also do not work on some common bacterial infections, such as many types of bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections. A person should always speak with a healthcare professional before starting a course of antibiotics.

A few other ways to help prevent yeast infections include:

  • wearing cotton undergarments
  • avoiding feminine hygiene sprays
  • avoiding scented tampons
  • avoiding harsh soaps when cleaning the vagina
  • using condoms during sex

In addition, there is some evidence that eating yogurt that contains live cultures every day or taking Lactobacillus acidophilus capsules may help prevent these infections.

While little high quality research has investigated this use of probiotics, many healthcare professionals recommend taking a probiotic supplement either during or immediately after completing a course of antibiotics to reduce the risk of a yeast infection.

Some types of antibiotics can lead to a vaginal yeast infection, which is a form of vaginitis known as vaginal candidiasis.

Antibiotics kill bacteria, which can upset the delicate balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. This allows the Candida fungus to multiply, leading to symptoms such as itching, burning, or pain during sex.

It is usually straightforward to treat yeast infections with OTC antifungal medications. However, anyone who suspects that they have this type of infection should consult a doctor to rule out other issues with similar symptoms.

Yeast infection from antibiotics: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Taking certain antibiotics may lead to a yeast infection in the vagina, also known as a fungal infection or vaginal candidiasis.

A yeast infection is a form of vaginitis, which means inflammation in the vagina. Vaginitis is the most common vaginal condition in people aged 15–44.

Vaginal candidiasis, caused by Candida fungus, is the second most common type of vaginal infection in the United States, after bacterial infections.

This article examines how taking antibiotics can sometimes lead to yeast infections. It also describes which antibiotics can cause these infections and how to treat them.

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

Was this helpful?

A yeast infection occurs when something upsets the delicate balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina.

A small amount of Candida fungus is usually present in the vagina, and beneficial bacteria help keep this fungus under control.

Antibiotics work by killing bacteria that cause infection, but they can also kill beneficial bacteria in other parts of the body, including the vagina.

Without enough beneficial bacteria to keep the yeast at bay, Candida yeast can multiply, causing the symptoms of a yeast infection.

Some people are more prone to yeast infections than others. According to current estimates, 8% of females have recurring Candida infections, and around 70% of females report dealing with this condition at least once in their lifetime.

Yeast infections can develop at any age, but these infections are more common during reproductive years.

The common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection tend to be more noticeable just before menstruation. A person may experience:

  • an itchy sensation on and around the vulva, which is the area outside the vagina
  • a burning sensation on or around the vulva
  • white, lumpy, odorless vaginal discharge
  • pain during sex
  • pain or discomfort while urinating
  • an increase in vaginal discharge

These symptoms are mild in most cases. In severe infections, redness, swelling, or cracks form in the walls of the vagina.

It can be difficult to distinguish between a yeast infection and a urinary tract infection (UTI). Learn to tell the difference here.

Not all antibiotics are likely to cause yeast infections — only broad-spectrum antibiotics tend to have this effect. These drugs can kill several different types of bacteria.

The following three types of broad-spectrum antibiotic, in particular, may increase the risk of a yeast infection:

Tetracyclines

Doctors prescribe tetracyclines for acne, UTIs, intestinal tract infections, eye infections, sexually transmitted infections, and gum disease.

Examples of tetracyclines and common brand names include:

  • demeclocycline (Detravis)
  • doxycycline (Adoxa)
  • eravacycline (Xerava)
  • minocycline (Minocin)
  • omadacycline (Nuzyra)
  • tetracycline (Sumycin)

Quinolones

Doctors prescribe quinolones for difficult-to-treat UTIs, hospital-acquired pneumonia, and bacterial prostatitis. Common examples include:

  • ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
  • levofloxacin (Levaquin)
  • moxifloxacin (Avelox)

Broad-spectrum penicillins

Broad-spectrum penicillins, such as ampicillin and amoxicillin, may also lead to yeast infections.

Yeast infections are common, but a few circumstances may make it more likely a person will develop one. These circumstances include:

  • pregnancy
  • hormone contraceptive use, such as birth control pills
  • diabetes
  • a weakened immune system due to factors such as chemotherapy treatment or HIV infection

If a person is living with one of these risk factors, they should talk with their doctor if they have been prescribed antibiotics, as there can be an increased risk of yeast infection.

While yeast infections are more common among sexually active people, there is no evidence that they are sexually transmitted.

Treating a yeast infection is usually a straightforward process. In most cases, a person will either apply a cream or ointment to the inside of the vagina or take a pill containing an antifungal medicine, such as fluconazole or miconazole.

A doctor can prescribe antifungal creams or tablets. People can also find over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal vaginal creams at drugstores, or online.

Some infections, such as recurring chronic infections, may require stronger treatment. In this case, a doctor may recommend additional doses of fluconazole or creams that contain boric acid, nystatin, or flucytosine.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that anyone who suspects they have vaginal candidiasis speak with a healthcare professional. This is because the symptoms are similar to those of other vaginal infections, which require different treatments.

A healthcare professional can ensure that a person gets the right medication for the infection. To identify vaginal candidiasis, they usually take a small sample of vaginal discharge for examination under a microscope.

Pregnancy and fluconazole

Pregnant people may want to avoid treating yeast infections with fluconazole due to the risk of birth abnormalities. According to an older safety announcement from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a single 150-microgram dose of fluconazole may not cause this effect, but taking it for longer periods or at a higher dosage carries this risk.

While a 2013 study did not find a significantly increased risk of birth abnormalities when pregnant people took fluconazole, a more recent cohort study from 2020 did find an association with fluconazole use during the first trimester and musculoskeletal malformations.

Pregnant individuals managing a yeast infection should discuss with their doctor about the risks of fluconazole, and other alternative treatments.

People can help prevent vaginal candidiasis by taking antibiotics only when they are necessary. It is worth remembering that antibiotics do not work on viral infections, such as a cold or the flu.

Antibiotics also do not work on some common bacterial infections, such as many types of bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections. A person should always speak with a healthcare professional before starting a course of antibiotics.

A few other ways to help prevent yeast infections include:

  • wearing cotton undergarments
  • avoiding feminine hygiene sprays
  • avoiding scented tampons
  • avoiding harsh soaps when cleaning the vagina
  • using condoms during sex

In addition, there is some evidence that eating yogurt that contains live cultures every day or taking Lactobacillus acidophilus capsules may help prevent these infections.

While little high quality research has investigated this use of probiotics, many healthcare professionals recommend taking a probiotic supplement either during or immediately after completing a course of antibiotics to reduce the risk of a yeast infection.

Some types of antibiotics can lead to a vaginal yeast infection, which is a form of vaginitis known as vaginal candidiasis.

Antibiotics kill bacteria, which can upset the delicate balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. This allows the Candida fungus to multiply, leading to symptoms such as itching, burning, or pain during sex.

It is usually straightforward to treat yeast infections with OTC antifungal medications. However, anyone who suspects that they have this type of infection should consult a doctor to rule out other issues with similar symptoms.

Symptoms of thrush after a course of antibiotics

“Three days – and thrush is gone!” – women gossip over a cup of coffee, considering the thrush absolutely harmless. Moreover, advertising of modern medicines seems to even relieve the need to go to the gynecologist: the ladies on the TV screen themselves diagnose themselves and prescribe a course of treatment. Thrush is really not a dangerous disease, if you do not treat it in the way described above.
About what is thrush and how to deal with it, Modus vivendi , said the gynecologist, Ph.D. Madina SAFINA, Deputy Chief Physician for the Medical Department of the City Gynecological Hospital.

– Where does she come from – this very thrush?

– Thrush (candidiasis) is an inflammation of the usually mucous membranes and skin caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus candida , capable of very rapid reproduction – they grow like yeast. These fungi are found in many parts of the human body in small concentrations (this is the norm), but they attach especially well to the vaginal mucosa. Under favorable conditions, they begin to multiply rapidly, so the symptoms in an acute course are very bright.

It is not necessary to hope for self-healing, that the immune system will cope. Each case of thrush must be treated or, as we say, sanitized. This will, if not completely destroy the pathogen, then at least bring the concentration of fungi to the minimum that will not cause signs of inflammation.

There are diseases or metabolic disorders in the body that contribute to the growth of the fungus. The greatest risk groups are patients with diabetes mellitus, intensive care patients, cancer patients or people with reduced immunity, as well as pregnant women and newborns.

– Active sex life – a factor provoking thrush?

– This infection is transmitted by contact, incl. during sexual contact. But since women have more favorable conditions for reproduction (a humid environment, many folds of the mucosa), the reproduction of fungi occurs faster. And in men, the disease can be asymptomatic, or it can simply be a carrier of the infection. When there is at least a second episode of thrush, we recommend that the partner of the patient also improve his health by taking one capsule of an antifungal drug.

– How is the disease related to taking antibiotics?

– Let me remind you once again: these fungi in small concentrations can be found on any mucous membranes, moreover, in competition with other microorganisms. Very strong antibiotics kill bacteria, but those microorganisms that are insensitive are bound to grow very rapidly – they no longer have competitors. In addition, there are antibiotics that predispose to the growth of fungi – for example, doxycycline. Therefore, after a course of antibiotics, many may develop symptoms of thrush.

“Super-infection” works here – we kicked out one infection with treatment, but the second one rears its head. This is by no means a consequence of the fact that the doctor underexamined the patient. Therefore, we select such drugs so that there are no such consequences, or we prescribe prophylactic antifungal agents. The simplest method is a single dose of an antifungal capsule.

– Can thrush during pregnancy cause a miscarriage?

– Generally not. Rarely, there is one infection in the body – some other bacterial microorganism is sure to grow nearby. And now, if it already begins to act, then the bacteria, of course, penetrate through the cervix into the uterine cavity and can cause inflammation of the membranes and miscarriage. If there is at least one infection of the genital tract, we will definitely examine for all possible pathogens.

– Does the disappearance of acute symptoms mean recovery?

– Not always. When treating, it is necessary to take into account the risk of relapse: if you do not treat thrush with a full course, any stress factor, hypothermia, changes in hormonal levels will cause symptoms to reappear.

Usually, when treated with local preparations, the course of treatment is 7 days, with antibiotics up to 10 days. But if the symptoms have disappeared on the third day, then many women (if not most) stop drinking the drug. But the course is not completed: it is proved that 7 and 10 days – it is this duration of administration that reduces the concentration of fungi so much that they do not relapse later. Oral long-acting antifungal drugs are the most convenient and highly effective form of treatment.

Ignorance of hygiene rules also predisposes to the development of thrush. Increased humidity in the crotch area, synthetic underwear, types of underwear that cause chafing, thongs – all this contributes to the reproduction of fungi. Abroad they say that tights should also have a cotton gusset. In addition, it is not recommended to use colored toilet paper or any flavored hygiene products.

– Are relapses of untreated thrush harder to cure?

– Yes, when initially the course is not carried out correctly, then the treatment of relapses is a big problem, because thrush adapts very easily. If the course is not completed, then the resistance of fungi to antifungal drugs is developed. And then it is already difficult to achieve a cure even with highly effective drugs.

Forms of adaptability of thrush are unique. The latest study concerns the fact that fungi form a biofilm in the body, through which drugs simply do not penetrate to deep-lying, dividing fungi: even if treated in good faith for 10 days, the effect may not come.

Despite the fact that this disease does not pose a risk to life, it gives very pronounced, unpleasant symptoms, and, judging by my experience, the number of these diseases does not decrease significantly. According to statistics, 75% of women suffer at least one episode of thrush in their life.

why it occurs and what to do about it

Thrush after sex: why it occurs and what to do about it

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  • Thrush after sex: why it occurs and what to do about it

Burning and cheesy discharge 1-3 days after intimacy are symptoms familiar to many girls. But do not blame your partner ahead of time – thrush itself is not related to sex and occurs for other reasons. It can be caused by prolonged use of antibiotics, hormonal changes, improper selection of intimate hygiene products, and many other factors.

Why does thrush get worse after sex

Most often, this situation occurs in girls who suffer from chronic thrush and do not receive proper treatment. The exchange of microflora with a partner, the ingress of sperm and secretions into the vagina, the use of lubricants and other intimate products – all this aggravates existing disorders and provokes a relapse.

The appearance of symptoms of thrush after sex also contributes to:

● non-observance of hygiene before and after sexual intercourse;

● frequent change of sexual partners or unprotected contacts;

● microtrauma of the vaginal mucosa.

Is it possible to get thrush from a partner

In men, candidiasis mainly affects the glans penis. If the partner does not follow hygiene and does not undergo treatment, a large number of Candida fungi can enter the vagina during sex. Further development of events depends on the immune defense and the presence of risk factors in a woman.

If the composition of the microflora is normal, then beneficial microorganisms quickly suppress the reproduction of fungi, and there will be no thrush. If a woman has recently taken antibiotics, is fond of douching and antibacterial gels, has hormonal disorders, then sexual contact can become a provoking factor for vaginal candidiasis.

Sex with thrush – possible or not

In acute vaginal candidiasis and in the period of exacerbation of chronic thrush, it is recommended to refrain from sexual intercourse. The vaginal mucosa is inflamed, so intimacy will be uncomfortable for the woman and will exacerbate existing symptoms. In addition, vaginal suppositories, which are used to treat thrush, reduce the effectiveness of condoms – there is a risk of both STI infection and unplanned pregnancy.

What to do if you have symptoms of thrush

Even if a woman is sure that she has thrush, treatment should not be started without a visit to a gynecologist. The ID-Clinic doctor will perform a gynecological examination, take a vaginal swab to confirm the diagnosis, and if necessary, prescribe an extended health examination. Then the specialist will select an effective treatment, taking into account the cause of the problem, the severity of the inflammation and other individual characteristics of the body.

A timely visit to the gynecologist is a necessary condition for maintaining and restoring reproductive health!

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