Can antibiotics cause yeast infections. What are the symptoms of antibiotic-induced yeast infections. How to prevent and treat yeast infections caused by antibiotics. Which antibiotics are most likely to cause yeast infections.

The Link Between Antibiotics and Yeast Infections

Antibiotics are powerful medications designed to combat bacterial infections. However, they can sometimes lead to an unexpected consequence: yeast infections. Understanding this connection is crucial for anyone taking antibiotics or experiencing recurrent yeast infections.

Yeast infections, medically known as vaginal candidiasis, occur when there’s an overgrowth of Candida fungus in the vagina. This fungus naturally exists in small amounts, but certain factors can disrupt the delicate balance of microorganisms, leading to an infection.

How Do Antibiotics Contribute to Yeast Infections?

Antibiotics work by eliminating harmful bacteria, but they can also inadvertently kill beneficial bacteria that help keep yeast growth in check. Without these protective bacteria, Candida yeast can multiply rapidly, resulting in an infection.

• Antibiotics disrupt the vaginal microbiome
• Beneficial bacteria are reduced
• Candida yeast can grow unchecked
• This imbalance can lead to a yeast infection

Identifying Symptoms of Antibiotic-Induced Yeast Infections

Recognizing the symptoms of a yeast infection is crucial for prompt treatment. While symptoms can vary in severity, they typically include:

• Intense itching in and around the vagina
• A burning sensation, especially during urination or intercourse
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Thick, white, odorless discharge resembling cottage cheese
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse

These symptoms often become more noticeable just before menstruation. In severe cases, the vaginal walls may develop cracks or sores.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Is it necessary to consult a healthcare provider for every yeast infection? While mild cases can often be treated with over-the-counter medications, it’s advisable to seek medical attention if:

1. It’s your first suspected yeast infection
2. Symptoms persist after using OTC treatments
3. You experience recurrent infections (4 or more per year)
4. You’re pregnant
5. You have underlying health conditions like diabetes or HIV

Antibiotics Most Likely to Cause Yeast Infections

Not all antibiotics carry the same risk of causing yeast infections. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, which target a wide range of bacteria, are more likely to disrupt the vaginal microbiome and lead to yeast overgrowth.

High-Risk Antibiotic Classes

The following antibiotic classes are most commonly associated with yeast infections:

1. Tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline)
2. Quinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin)
3. Broad-spectrum penicillins (e.g., amoxicillin, ampicillin)

These antibiotics are frequently prescribed for conditions such as acne, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections.

Risk Factors for Developing Antibiotic-Induced Yeast Infections

While anyone taking antibiotics can potentially develop a yeast infection, certain factors can increase the risk:

• Pregnancy
• Use of hormonal contraceptives
• Diabetes, especially if poorly controlled
• Weakened immune system (e.g., due to HIV or chemotherapy)
• Previous history of yeast infections
• High-sugar diet
• Tight-fitting, non-breathable clothing

Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures when using antibiotics.

Preventing Yeast Infections While Taking Antibiotics

While it’s not always possible to prevent yeast infections entirely, several strategies can reduce the risk:

1. Take probiotics during and after antibiotic treatment
2. Maintain good hygiene, but avoid douching
3. Wear breathable, cotton underwear
4. Avoid tight-fitting pants or leggings
5. Limit sugar intake, as yeast thrives on sugar
6. Consider taking antifungal medications prophylactically if you’re prone to yeast infections

The Role of Probiotics

Do probiotics really help prevent antibiotic-induced yeast infections? Research suggests that probiotics, particularly those containing Lactobacillus species, can help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome and reduce the risk of yeast overgrowth. Probiotics can be taken as supplements or consumed through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.

Effective Treatments for Antibiotic-Induced Yeast Infections

Treating a yeast infection caused by antibiotics typically involves antifungal medications. These can be obtained over-the-counter or by prescription, depending on the severity of the infection.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

For mild to moderate infections, OTC antifungal creams, ointments, or suppositories are often effective. Common active ingredients include:

• Miconazole (e.g., Monistat)
• Clotrimazole (e.g., Gyne-Lotrimin)
• Tioconazole (e.g., Vagistat)

These treatments typically require application for 1 to 7 days, depending on the product strength.

Prescription Treatments

For more severe or recurrent infections, a healthcare provider may prescribe:

• Oral fluconazole (Diflucan) – a single-dose pill
• Terconazole vaginal cream or suppositories
• Boric acid suppositories for resistant infections

In some cases, a longer course of treatment may be necessary to fully resolve the infection.

Long-Term Management of Recurrent Yeast Infections

For individuals prone to recurrent yeast infections, especially when taking antibiotics, long-term management strategies may be necessary:

1. Maintenance therapy with weekly or monthly antifungal treatments
2. Regular probiotic supplementation
3. Dietary modifications to reduce sugar intake
4. Addressing underlying health conditions that may contribute to infections
5. Considering alternative antibiotics when possible

Working closely with a healthcare provider can help develop an individualized plan for managing recurrent infections.

The Impact of Yeast Infections on Sexual Health

Yeast infections can significantly impact sexual health and intimacy. They can cause discomfort during intercourse and may temporarily affect libido. While yeast infections are not typically considered sexually transmitted, they can sometimes be passed between sexual partners.

Sexual Activity During a Yeast Infection

Is it safe to engage in sexual activity during a yeast infection? Most healthcare providers recommend abstaining from sexual intercourse until the infection has cleared. This is because:

• Sexual activity can worsen symptoms and delay healing
• Friction can cause micro-abrasions, increasing discomfort
• Some antifungal creams and suppositories can damage condoms and diaphragms
• There’s a small risk of passing the infection to a partner

If sexual activity does occur, using barrier methods like condoms can help reduce the risk of transmission.

Differentiating Yeast Infections from Other Vaginal Conditions

Yeast infections share symptoms with other vaginal conditions, making accurate diagnosis crucial. Conditions that may present similarly include:

• Bacterial vaginosis
• Trichomoniasis
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Vaginal irritation or allergic reactions

Given the overlap in symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis, especially if it’s a first-time infection or if symptoms persist despite treatment.

Diagnostic Methods

How do healthcare providers diagnose yeast infections? Several methods may be used:

1. Review of symptoms and medical history
2. Physical examination of the vaginal area
3. Microscopic examination of vaginal secretions
4. pH testing of vaginal discharge
5. Fungal culture in cases of recurrent or resistant infections

Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment and helps avoid unnecessary antibiotic use, which could further exacerbate the problem.

The Future of Antibiotic-Induced Yeast Infection Prevention

As antibiotic resistance becomes an increasing concern, researchers are exploring new ways to prevent and treat antibiotic-induced yeast infections. Some promising areas of research include:

• Development of targeted antibiotics that spare beneficial bacteria
• Advanced probiotic formulations designed to restore vaginal microbiome balance
• Novel antifungal compounds with improved efficacy and fewer side effects
• Personalized medicine approaches based on individual microbiome profiles

These advancements may lead to more effective strategies for preventing and managing yeast infections in the future, particularly for those who require frequent antibiotic use.

The Role of Microbiome Research

How might a better understanding of the vaginal microbiome impact yeast infection prevention? Ongoing research into the complex ecosystem of microorganisms in the vagina is revealing new insights into maintaining vaginal health. This knowledge could lead to:

• More precise probiotic therapies
• Improved diagnostic tools for vaginal dysbiosis
• Targeted interventions to restore microbiome balance
• Novel approaches to enhancing the body’s natural defenses against Candida overgrowth

As our understanding of the microbiome grows, so too will our ability to prevent and treat antibiotic-induced yeast infections more effectively.

Educating Patients: The Key to Prevention and Early Treatment

Empowering patients with knowledge about the link between antibiotics and yeast infections is crucial for prevention and early intervention. Healthcare providers play a vital role in this education process.

Key Points for Patient Education

What information should be communicated to patients prescribed antibiotics? Important points include:

• The potential risk of yeast infections with antibiotic use
• Signs and symptoms to watch for
• Preventive measures, such as probiotic use
• When to seek medical attention
• The importance of completing the full course of antibiotics as prescribed

By providing this information, healthcare providers can help patients take proactive steps to maintain their vaginal health while on antibiotic therapy.

Balancing the Benefits and Risks of Antibiotic Use

While the risk of yeast infections is a concern, it’s important to remember that antibiotics play a crucial role in treating many serious bacterial infections. The potential for developing a yeast infection should not deter patients from taking prescribed antibiotics when necessary.

Making Informed Decisions

How can patients and healthcare providers balance the need for antibiotics with the risk of yeast infections? Consider the following approach:

1. Evaluate the necessity of antibiotic treatment
2. Choose narrow-spectrum antibiotics when possible
3. Discuss the patient’s history of yeast infections
4. Implement preventive strategies during antibiotic use
5. Monitor for signs of yeast overgrowth
6. Treat promptly if a yeast infection develops

By taking a thoughtful, proactive approach, the benefits of antibiotic therapy can be maximized while minimizing the risk of yeast infections.

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.

11 answers to naive questions about thrush

Health

April 18, 2020

This inflammation can be treated on its own. But with some reservations.

What is thrush?

Thrush is an infection caused by a yeast-like fungus from the genus Candida. It was they who gave the scientific name to the disease – candidiasis.

In general, Candida fungi normally live quietly on healthy mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, genitals, in the intestines, on the skin and do not manifest themselves in any way. But sometimes, for a number of reasons, they begin to multiply uncontrollably, causing an inflammatory process in the affected areas.

If the mucous membranes of the vagina are affected, they often develop a white, curd-like coating. Because of this similarity, the fungal infection of the vagina came to be called thrush.

Why does thrush appear?

The main cause of vaginal candidiasis is a violation of the vaginal microflora.

Up to 75% of women have experienced thrush at least once in their lives.

But a variety of factors can provoke this violation, the list and mechanism of which scientists have not yet fully figured out. For some, thrush appears after a severe illness (the same flu), taking antibiotics or inappropriate birth control pills. And for someone it is enough to overeat sweets, get nervous or put on synthetic underwear several times in a row – and now unpleasant symptoms have already appeared.

Reading now 🔥

• Personal experience: I live in the USA during the pandemic

How to understand that it is thrush?

In most cases, the disease manifests itself with characteristic signs:

• Itching and irritation in the vulva (vulva) and vagina.
• Burning during urination or intercourse.
• Redness and swelling of the vulva.
• Rash on the genitals.
• Allocations. As a rule, there are a lot of them, they are transparent, and more often curdled – white and lumpy.

By the way, men also get thrush – in the sense, a yeast infection of the penis mucosa. It is much less common than in women, and makes itself felt by irritation and itching on the glans penis and under the foreskin, an unpleasant odor and cheesy discharge.

Can I get thrush if I am not sexually active?

Yes, it happens. Fungi don’t care if you have sex or not. Therefore, thrush affects even those who have not begun to live a sexual life, but it manifests itself just as strongly and unpleasantly.

Is thrush sexually transmitted? Should I treat my partner?

Candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most often, it occurs on its own: it is caused by “native” raging microorganisms, and not brought from outside.

However, it is quite possible to share thrush with a partner during sexual contact.

If this happens and the partner shows signs of candidiasis, he will also have to undergo treatment. The main thing is to be treated at the same time and buy effective remedies. Fortunately, now there is a choice. It is convenient for women to use medicines in the form of suppositories, for men a cream is suitable, both partners can use pills.

Is it possible to treat thrush on your own, without a doctor?

If you encounter candidiasis for the first time, a visit to the gynecologist is mandatory. The fact is that other, much more serious diseases of the genital area, including sexually transmitted infections, can hide behind the symptoms of thrush. Only a qualified doctor can exclude them, and often only after a laboratory analysis. Your doctor will also recommend antifungal medications to help fight the yeast infection. Most often they do not require a prescription.

If you have had thrush before, you probably know the symptoms. In such cases, you can be treated with over-the-counter drugs that helped you the first time. But with a few caveats:

• You are absolutely sure that it is thrush.
• You are not sexually active with a new partner or multiple partners. In this case, the risk increases that we are not talking about candidiasis, but about some kind of STI.
• You have no other symptoms than those of thrush.

When starting self-treatment, be sure to monitor your well-being. Symptoms of candidiasis usually go away within a week. If they persist for more than 7 days, you still need to see a doctor. He will clarify the diagnosis and prescribe a more appropriate treatment.

Can I have sex during thrush?

Undesirable. First, you risk passing on a yeast infection. Second, even if you use condoms, sexual activity can make your symptoms worse.

And thirdly, some medicines for the treatment of fungal infections (suppositories, creams) reduce the effectiveness of condoms. With all the ensuing consequences – from an unplanned pregnancy to the acquisition of another infection from a not very reliable partner. In general, it is better to postpone bed joys until the thrush recedes.

Unpleasant symptoms are very disturbing. When will it end?

Indeed, itching, burning and discharge during thrush are so strong that they interfere with sports, swimming, rest and do not allow you to concentrate on work.

Many modern antifungals help relieve symptoms as early as the first or second day of use. But keep in mind: this does not mean that the course of treatment should be abandoned as soon as it becomes easier. If you do not finish it (how long you need to use suppositories, cream or tablets, it is written in the instructions for a particular drug), thrush can quickly return.

Can pregnant women take medicine for thrush?

Yes, if these medicines do not harm the child.

Strong hormonal changes during pregnancy are a serious risk factor that provokes the development of candidiasis. Now there are enough drugs that are safe for pregnant women. But, of course, women in this condition should not choose their own treatment: all appointments can only be made by the gynecologist who is observing you.

Or maybe folk remedies are better?

Folk remedies were more or less justified when there were no more effective drugs to combat thrush. Therefore, all kinds of herbal decoctions and soda solutions “worked” – there was nothing to replace them with, and women douched until the inflammation and itching went away by themselves.

Modern medicines are tested, effective and help faster than any traditional recipes.

Is it true that you can’t get rid of thrush forever?

How lucky. You definitely cannot get rid of Candida fungi: they are part of a healthy microflora. But whether they will provoke thrush and at what point this will happen is an individual question.

Up to a quarter of all women never experience vaginal candidiasis at all. By almost half, the thrush comes back again and again. If this happens, then the body requires complex therapy.

A doctor should understand the causes of recurring thrush.

He may recommend that you rethink your lifestyle: normalize your diet, lose weight, be less nervous, wear cotton underwear. Sometimes recurring candidiasis is a sign of a latent chronic disease, such as incipient diabetes mellitus. To exclude this option, the physician will offer you to pass a series of tests. Further treatment will depend on their results.

Read also 🦠👩‍⚕️🧬

• How to treat thrush in women so that it does not return
• 9 stupid and embarrassing questions to ask at the gynecologist’s appointment
• What to do if a condom breaks
• How not to get syphilis and what to do if it happens
• How dangerous is the human papillomavirus and how to get rid of it

How thrush is transmitted to a man – Private practice

Thrush is probably the most common inflammatory disease of the female genital area caused by a fungus of the Candida type, which is why it is also called candidiasis. There is practically no woman who has not had at least one episode of thrush in her life. And now, in general, recurrent chronic candidiasis is very common, characterized by constant exacerbations, itching and white vaginal discharge. All this makes certain adjustments to the sexual life of a woman and her sexual partner. Therefore, the question arises very sharply whether thrush is transmitted during various types of sexual intercourse.

Candidiasis does not necessarily result from sexual contact. This fungus lives in small numbers in any organism on the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and genital organs and does not cause any harm. But under certain conditions, it can be sharply activated and cause inflammation. This happens when:

• Reduced immunity
• Antibiotic treatment
• Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives
• Frequent douching of the vagina, leading to a violation of its microflora.
• Eating a lot of sugars.

As a result, a candidal lesion of the vagina in women or the glans penis in men develops. At this time, the amount of the fungus is very large, and it is able to be transmitted sexually.

Can a man get thrush from a woman during this period? Of course yes! This is exactly what happens most often in the development of candidal balanoposthitis in men after contact with a sexual partner who has an exacerbation of thrush.

Consider the reverse situation. Is it possible to get thrush from a man? Not everything is so clear here. Of course, if there is a large number of Candida albicans and its other subspecies on the surface of the male genital organs or in his urethra, then the infection will definitely get to the mucous membrane of the female genital organs. But with a normal, strong microflora of the vagina, containing a large number of lactobacilli, Candida will not be able to cause inflammation, and thrush will not develop.

After prolonged treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics, the microflora is often disturbed not only in the vagina, but also in the gastrointestinal tract, in the oropharynx. A large number of fungi appear on the oral mucosa, candidal glossitis, stomatitis, and pharyngitis develop. Accordingly, the question arises whether thrush is transmitted from a woman to a man during oral contact, and how possible is such an alternative to sexual life with vaginal candidiasis, when classic sex is prohibited? Dear patients, there should be no illusions about whether it is possible to become infected with candidiasis in this situation. Infection is bound to happen! The fungus absolutely does not care from which mucous membrane to move to a new host. And in the case of orogenital contact, a large number of conditionally pathogenic bacteria also pass, which live in large numbers in the oropharynx and on the tonsils, which further aggravates the damage to the male genital organs.

A very common cause of intestinal candidiasis is dysbacteriosis, when normal bifidumbacteria and lactobacilli are forced out, and opportunistic flora and fungi actively multiply.

Is candidiasis transmitted in this case during anal sex? The situation is generally similar. Transmission of Candida albicans is possible both from the intestinal mucosa to the glans penis and urethra, and from a member affected by candidiasis to the rectum of a partner with the development of candidal proctitis. This also applies to homosexual contacts.

Let’s summarize all the information about how thrush is infected:

• Infection of a man with candidiasis during normal vaginal contact in the presence of a large amount of fungus in the woman’s vagina.
• Infection of a healthy woman from a man with candidal balanoposthitis or urethritis.
• Contact of Candida albicans from the mucous membrane of the tongue, pharynx, cheeks on the genitals of a man or woman during orogenital contacts.
• Development of candidiasis of the pharynx due to infection during oral sex from a partner with thrush of the vagina and penis.
• Spread of the fungus to the perianal region and rectum from the oropharynx affected by the fungus.
• Development of candidal balanoposthitis or proctitis with anogenital contact as a result of the transmission of the fungus from the rectum to the skin of the penis and vice versa.