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, causes and effective treatment

Contents

• 1 Thrush: symptoms, causes and effective treatment
  • 1.1 Thrush: what is this disease?
  • 1.2 Symptoms of thrush
  • 1.3 Causes of thrush
  • 1.4 Diagnosis of thrush
    • 1.4.1 History and examination
    • 1.4.2 Laboratory diagnosis
    • 1.4.3 Diagnosis of complications
  • 1. 5 Treatment of thrush
  • 1.6 Medicines to fight thrush
  • 1.7 Folk remedies for thrush
    • 1.7.1 Herbal infusion of chamomile and calendula
    • 1.7.2 Coconut oil
    • 1.7.3 Garlic

  900 05 1.8 Prevention of thrush

  • 1.8.1 Observe hygiene requirements
  • 1.8. 2 Do not overuse antibiotics
  • 1.8.3 Reduce consumption of sweet and starchy foods
  • 1.8.4 Do not forget prophylaxis before intimate relationships
  • 1.9 How to protect your partner from contracting thrush?
  • 1.10 Diet to control thrush
  • 1.11 Thrush: symptoms, causes and effective treatment
    • 1.11.1 How to avoid recurrence of thrush?
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What is thrush and how to identify it?
      • 1.13.0.2 What are the causes of thrush?
      • 1.13.0.3 What is the most effective treatment for thrush?
      • 1.13.0.4 How can thrush be prevented?
      • 1. 13.0.5 Can thrush be sexually transmitted?
      • 1.13.0.6 What are the consequences of not treating thrush?

Learn about the symptoms, causes, and effective treatments for thrush. Get rid of unpleasant symptoms and keep your genitals healthy.

Thrush is a common gynecological disease caused by the fungus Candida albicans. It manifests itself in the form of severe itching, burning and a white clot in the vagina. However, in many women, thrush goes away without symptoms and is not detected in time.

The origin of thrush cannot always be explained by obvious causes. But among the factors contributing to its development, we can distinguish a decrease in immunity, the use of antibiotics and anticonceptives, diabetes mellitus and malnutrition.

Treatment of thrush includes the use of antimicrobial agents in the form of ointments, creams, suppositories and tablets. For maximum effectiveness, it is recommended to be treated as partners in order to prevent a recurrence of the disease. Also, an important point in the treatment of thrush is personal hygiene and the avoidance of synthetic underwear.

Thrush: what is this disease?

A neoplasm of thrush appears due to a fungal infection of the female genital organs. Thrush is also called candidiasis and is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. This fungus can live on the skin, in the mouth, intestines, in women on the mucous membrane of the genital organs and vagina, in men on the head and inside the flesh.

One of the reasons for the appearance of thrush may be a violation of the harmony of the microflora of the vagina. This balance is often lost due to diseases, hormonal disorders associated with transitional age, or is disturbed after long-term use of antibiotics.

• So, the main causes of thrush:
• Reduced immunity in women (especially during pregnancy)
• Abuse of antibiotics and hormones
• Violation of the vaginal microflora
• Love relationships

9 0092 Symptoms of thrush

Thrush is an infectious disease that caused by the fungus Candida. Women with this disease may experience various symptoms, including:

• Burning and itching in the vagina. This is the most common symptom of thrush. It can be very intense, leading to serious inconvenience.
• White vaginal discharge. They may have a cottage cheese texture and an unpleasant odour.
• General malaise and weakness. Some women may feel general fatigue and soreness during urination.

It is important to note that all women with thrush may have different symptoms. Some may even have no symptoms at all.

If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended that you consult a gynecologist so that he can provide a correct diagnosis and effective treatment for thrush. The sooner the diagnosis is established and treatment is started, the sooner health will be restored and the consequences of the disease will be reduced.

Causes of thrush

Thrush is a fungal disease caused by Candida albicans. This fungus is present in the vagina of every woman, but the excess and some other factors contribute to the development of thrush.

Another cause may be vaginal dysbacteriosis, when the lactic acid bacteria that protect against the reproduction of fungi are destroyed or their balance is disturbed.

A common cause of thrush is improper hygiene, when a woman does not keep her vagina clean or uses aggressive intimate hygiene products. Also, thrush can be caused by tight synthetic underwear and single infections during sexual intercourse.

Some diseases, such as diabetes and HIV infection, increase the risk of thrush. Also, the risk of thrush is increased in women who abuse alcohol or smoke tobacco.

There are many causes of thrush. However, with proper hygiene, strengthening the immune system and proper careful care of the vagina, you can significantly reduce its risk.

Diagnosis of thrush

Anamnesis and examination

For the correct diagnosis of thrush, an anamnesis and examination is necessary. During the examination, the doctor should pay attention to the presence of a white, loose discharge from the vagina, as well as the presence of red spots around the vagina and vaginal mucosa.

During the medical history, the doctor needs to find out if the patient has symptoms of thrush, as well as to analyze her risk of the disease. It is important to find out whether the patient has had thrush before, whether she has had long-term antibiotic therapy, whether she has been in contact with infected partners.

Laboratory diagnosis

Laboratory diagnosis is necessary to confirm the diagnosis of thrush. Microscopic examination of the vaginal contents is usually used.

The doctor needs to take a smear of vaginal contents and conduct a microscopic examination. In the case of thrush, gram-negative bacteria and epithelial cells are found in large numbers. A PCR study can also be carried out, which allows you to identify the DNA of the causative agent of thrush.

Diagnosis of complications

If complications of thrush occur, additional diagnostics are carried out. For example, in the event of inflammation in thrush, a bacteriological study of pathogens detected at the site of inflammation is carried out.

An ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs and urinary tract can also be performed to detect complications of thrush.

Treatment of thrush

Thrush is a fungal disease caused by Candida Albicans. Treatment of this infection is necessary to prevent the infection from spreading and to prevent recurrences of thrush.

Treatment for thrush may vary depending on which form of the disease you are experiencing. However, there are several common treatments:

• Antibiotics. Antifungal creams or suppositories that contain the properties needed to fight the fungal infection may be used to treat a quick healing of the infection.
• Elimination of the cause. To avoid a constant return of thrush, it is necessary to investigate its cause and eliminate it. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe dietary or lifestyle changes to improve overall health.
• Hygiene maintenance. Regular washing of the perineal area and the use of sanitary napkins can help prevent the spread of infection.

It is best to seek medical attention if you have signs of thrush. The sooner treatment is started, the more effective it will be.

Anti-thrush medicines

Thrush is a common gynecological disease in women caused by the fungus Candida. Its treatment is aimed at destroying harmful microorganisms and restoring healthy microflora in the vagina.

Medicines from the following groups can be used to treat thrush:

• Antimycotics: These are medicines that identify fungal infection and destroy it. They are available in different forms – drops, ointments, creams, tablets and suppositories.
• Probiotics: preparations containing live bacteria and lactic acid bacteria that help promote healthy microflora in the vagina and inhibit the growth of fungi.
• Combination products: include several active ingredients aimed at establishing normal microflora in the vagina.

It is important to remember to choose the right drug and dosage to avoid unwanted side effects and recurrences of thrush. Therefore, be sure to consult a gynecologist before starting treatment for thrush.

Preparations Dosage Form of release

9 0214

Thrush folk remedies

Herbal infusion from chamomile and calendula

Herbal infusion of chamomile and calendula has an antifungal effect and can be used as an additional remedy in the treatment of thrush.

• Take 1 tablespoon each of dried chamomile and calendula flowers.
• Pour 500 ml of boiling water over, leave to infuse for 30 minutes.
• Strain and wash the vagina with the resulting infusion 2 times a day.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil contains caprylic and lauric acids, which are excellent at killing yeast that causes thrush.

1. Take a small amount of coconut oil.
2. Apply to the vagina before going to bed.
3. Repeat daily until complete cure.

Garlic

Garlic contains alicin, which has an antifungal effect.

Recipe:

Prevention of thrush

Observe hygiene requirements

To prevent thrush, it is necessary to observe hygiene requirements. Shower daily and change your underwear. Avoid underwear that is too tight, which can cause infection. Only when using a towel and other personal hygiene products, you will not become infected with candida.

Do not overuse antibiotics

Antibiotics, while effective in fighting bacteria, can upset the balance of microflora in the female body. In this case, the likelihood of infection with the Candida fungus increases. If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics for you, it is necessary to refrain from any intimate contact when using them, and if possible, add a course of probiotics to the diet.

Reduce intake of sugary and starchy foods

Sweet and starchy foods promote the growth of Candida. Therefore, if you want to protect yourself from thrush, reduce your intake of such foods. To quickly reduce the influx of sugar into the blood, add more fresh vegetables and fruits to the diet.

Don’t forget prevention before intimate relationships

Shower or intimate hygiene before intimate relationships. Use condoms whenever possible to protect yourself from getting infections. Feel free to communicate with your partner regarding your health and take effective action in case of symptoms of infection.

How can I protect my partner from getting thrush?

Thrush is an infectious disease caused by the fungus Candida. To prevent transmission of infection to a partner, the following recommendations should be followed:

• Make sure both partners are healthy before starting sexual intercourse;
• Sometimes thrush doesn’t show much symptoms, so it’s best to get regular medical checkups and tests for infections of all kinds;
• Use condoms every time you have sex;
• Limit the number of sexual partners to reduce the chance of getting infections.

If one of the partners is already infected with thrush, then you need to see a doctor and undergo treatment, which usually includes taking antimycotic drugs and effective topical agents.

It must be understood that thrush is not a serious disease, but if not treated in time, it can lead to more serious complications and worsen the quality of life.

Diet to control thrush

Thrush is a fungal disease caused by Candida. Avoiding certain foods can help control the growth of fungi in the body and reduce the symptoms of thrush.

The following foods are recommended to be excluded from your diet for thrush:

• Sugar and sweets: Candida feeds on sugar, so avoiding sweets, sugar, and other sugary foods from your diet can help control yeast growth.
• Carbohydrates: In addition to sugar, Candida also feed on carbohydrates. Therefore, cutting out carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, and potatoes from the diet can help control the growth of fungi.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can destroy the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections, including fungal infections.
• Fermented milk products: Although fermented milk products may contain beneficial bacteria such as lactobacilli, they may also contain Candida.

Some foods can help reduce the symptoms of thrush and control the growth of fungi in the body. Here are a few:

• Garlic: Garlic contains antibacterial properties that help kill bacteria and fungi, including Candida.
• Coconut oil: Coconut oil contains caprylic acid, which is a natural antiviral and antifungal agent that can help kill Candida.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of microflora in the gut, which in turn can help control fungal growth.
• Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds may contain slow carbohydrates and proteins that help reduce the growth of Candida.

Thrush: symptoms, causes and effective treatment

How to avoid recurrence of thrush?

Relapses of thrush can occur due to insufficient treatment or poor lifestyle. To avoid recurrence of the disease, attention should be paid to the following measures:

• Observe hygiene. Wash your genitals regularly with water and handle them with care.
• Avoid tight underwear , which does not allow air to pass through and promotes the development of a fungal infection.
• Avoid foods high in sugar as fungi love sweets and can thrive when blood glucose levels are high.
• Closely monitor the state of immunity and take measures to strengthen it. Exercise regularly, be outdoors, eat healthy food, take vitamin and mineral complexes.
• Remove visible symptoms of disease with antifungal agents, even if they somehow disappeared on their own.
• Complete a full course of treatment for thrush as directed by your physician and without stopping prematurely.
• Increase the time between sexual intercourse until complete recovery and do not have sex without protection.
• Visit a gynecologist at least once a year, even if there are no visible symptoms of the disease.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is thrush and how to identify it?

Thrush is a fungal infection that affects a woman’s genitals. You can determine the presence of thrush by symptoms such as itching and burning in the vagina, a whitish discharge, as well as pain during intercourse and urination.

What are the causes of thrush?

The main cause of thrush is poor hygiene of the genitals, but it can also be caused by stress, pregnancy, changes in hormone levels in the body, and the use of antibiotics.

What is the most effective treatment for thrush?

The treatment of thrush depends on its degree and cause. Effective methods are the use of local preparations (vaginal suppositories, creams), the elimination of the cause of the disease, as well as the use of antibiotics in severe cases.

How can thrush be prevented?

To prevent thrush, you need to observe intimate hygiene, do not wear tight underwear, play sports, give up bad habits (smoking, alcohol), and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Can thrush be sexually transmitted?

Yes, thrush is sexually transmitted, so condoms should be used during intercourse, especially if the partner has already been diagnosed with this infection.

What are the consequences of not treating thrush?

Untreated thrush can lead to complications such as pain during intercourse, repeated recurrences of the disease, swelling of the tissues around the genitals, and painful urination. In some cases, thrush can lead to more serious infections that can affect a woman’s health and her ability to become pregnant in the future.

“Thrush” – 10 uncomfortable questions

One of the most common “female” infections is thrush. This infection always raises a lot of questions, only many women are sometimes embarrassed to ask them even to doctors.

Marina Savkina, an expert from the CMD Center for Molecular Diagnostics of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor, answers these “inconvenient” questions.

Thrush – what is it?

In professional medical language, this infection is called “vulvovaginal candidiasis”. The causative agents of candidiasis are yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida . A small amount of these fungi can normally be detected in the body of a healthy person without causing any problems.

But sometimes candida begins to multiply intensively – then candidiasis develops. The most frequent and most unpleasant manifestation of vaginal candidiasis is severe itching and burning sensation in the genital area. In addition, there are abundant whitish-gray discharge of a curdled consistency, a feeling of discomfort during urination and sexual contact.

It should be noted that thrush is not always accompanied by vaginal discharge. In the case of a long-term severe course with numerous relapses, the discharge is scarce, and the main complaints are dryness, cracks in the mucosa in the genital area.

Is vaginal discharge always a sign of infection?

Normally there is always vaginal discharge. Their character is different: white, yellowish or transparent; odorless (more often) or with a slightly sour smell. A variety of factors affect the nature of the discharge: eating habits, intensity of sexual activity, taking medications (in particular combined oral contraceptives), pregnancy. The nature of the discharge also changes during the menstrual cycle. And hygiene matters too.

What is the “norm” can only be said by the woman herself – each woman has her own. Therefore, if you notice any change in the “usual” nature of the discharge – an increase in the amount, a change in smell and color – you should consult a doctor to find out the cause of these changes. Do not forget that such symptoms (discomfort, itching, smell) are characteristic not only for vaginal candidiasis, but also for many other urogenital infections.

Is it possible for a husband to be infected with thrush?

Candidiasis is not a “classic” sexually transmitted infection (STI). However, due to close contact, the sexual partner may develop penile candidiasis in the form of reddish rashes on the penis, accompanied by itching. In this case, the treatment will need a man. But if the partner does not complain, then there is no need for treatment.

However, during the treatment of candidiasis, sexual activity should still be suspended. In addition, it should be taken into account that vaginal suppositories and creams prescribed for the treatment of thrush can violate the integrity of latex condoms and diaphragms.

Can panty liners cause thrush?

Panty liners are generally safe. But sometimes there may be an increased sensitivity to the material used in these hygiene products. In such cases, contact allergic dermatitis develops in the area of ​​the external genitalia, violations of the vaginal microflora and, in particular, candidiasis are noted. By the way, when wearing synthetic underwear, such a reaction can also occur. Therefore, it is better to refuse pads, and it is preferable to use cotton underwear. In addition, when machine washing underwear, it is advisable to use the extra rinse function, since the remnants of synthetic detergents can irritate the skin and mucous membranes.

Can taking antibiotics cause candidiasis?

It has long been known that taking antibacterial drugs can cause the growth of Candida in the body. Therefore, if candidiasis develops against the background of antibiotic therapy, it is advisable to start taking antifungal drugs in parallel. But only on prescription!

If I endlessly go to the toilet “in a small way” – is it thrush?

Not at all necessary. The cause of frequent urination can be both other urogenital infections and various non-infectious factors. In any case, you need to see a doctor.

Is it possible to use the swimming pool?

On the one hand, thrush is not a contraindication to visiting the pool, fitness center, gym. But on the other hand, chlorinated water and tight sportswear in combination with physical activity can cause discomfort: increased discomfort, itching, burning, etc.

Does this infection occur in girls?

Taking into account the fact that a small number of fungi Candida are present in any person, candidiasis can develop even in girls and girls who have not yet entered into sexual relations. The main reasons for this may be poor hygiene, tight synthetic underwear, as well as a decrease in immunity, antibiotics.

Do folk remedies help with thrush?

It should be recognized that folk remedies (herbal infusions, decoctions, etc.) cannot cure thrush. At the same time, they can cause additional irritation of already inflamed tissues in the intimate area.

How to distinguish candidiasis from other diseases?

The symptoms of thrush are not specific and may be similar to those of other urogenital infections (bacterial vaginosis, nonspecific (aerobic) vaginitis, STIs).

For differential diagnosis, a laboratory examination prescribed by a doctor is necessary: ​​

• Microscopy of a vaginal smear;
• Culture for candida with detection of sensitivity to antifungal drugs.

To date, the most effective and reliable method for studying the microbiocenosis of the vagina is the modern test FLOROCENOSIS, which is based on the PCR method (polymerase chain reaction). The FLOROCENOSIS test evaluates the ratio of DNA concentrations of clinically significant microorganisms, including fungi of the genus Candida. With the test, it is possible to rule out other vaginal infections with similar symptoms. Also, FLOROCENOSIS will determine the presence of mixed infections (mixed infections), when several pathogens of vaginal infections (for example, candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis) are detected at the same time.

But in no case should you try to diagnose yourself based on the results of the tests and, moreover, start self-treatment! Only a doctor, based on all the data obtained, can professionally assess the situation and prescribe adequate treatment.

How to protect yourself from thrush?

Fungi of the genus Candida are part of the normal microflora, present in small quantities in the body of each person.