How can you recognize a yeast infection. What does yeast infection discharge look like. How does a yeast infection differ from other vaginal conditions. What are the most effective treatments for yeast infections. How can you prevent recurrent yeast infections.

Understanding Yeast Infections: Causes and Prevalence

Yeast infections, medically known as vulvovaginal candidiasis, are a common concern for many women. These infections occur when there’s an overgrowth of Candida fungi in the vaginal microbiome. While Candida albicans is responsible for up to 90% of yeast infections, other strains such as C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei can also cause similar symptoms.

Did you know that up to 75% of women will experience a yeast infection at least once in their lifetime? This high prevalence underscores the importance of understanding the symptoms and appearance of yeast infections for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying Yeast Infection Symptoms: Beyond the Itch

Recognizing the symptoms of a yeast infection is crucial for seeking timely treatment. While itching is often the most commonly associated symptom, there are several other indicators to watch for:

• Vaginal and vulvar itching, redness, or soreness
• Thick, white vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese-like consistency
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Soreness or stinging sensation when urinating
• A red, swollen vulva and vagina
• Possible rash that may extend to the buttocks

Is a yeast infection always accompanied by a strong odor? Contrary to common belief, yeast infections typically don’t produce a strong smell. You might notice a slightly yeasty scent, reminiscent of beer or bread, but it’s also perfectly normal to have no odor at all. If you detect a foul, rotten, or fishy smell, it could indicate a different condition such as bacterial vaginosis, aerobic vaginitis, or a sexually transmitted infection.

The Visual Signs: What Does a Yeast Infection Look Like?

Identifying a yeast infection based on its appearance can be challenging, as symptoms can vary from person to person and may resemble other vaginal conditions. However, there are some visual cues to look out for:

• Thick, white vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese or curdled milk
• A red, scaly rash on the vulva, which may spread to surrounding areas
• Swelling and redness of the vulva and vagina

It’s important to note that yeast infections typically don’t cause wounds, ulcers, or bumps on the skin. However, if you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

The Cottage Cheese Analogy: Understanding Yeast Infection Discharge

While it may seem unappetizing, the comparison of yeast infection discharge to cottage cheese is quite apt. The thick, white, and clumpy nature of the discharge is often described as resembling cottage cheese in both appearance and consistency. This distinctive characteristic can help differentiate yeast infections from other vaginal conditions.

Yeast Infections vs. Other Vaginal Conditions: Spotting the Differences

Distinguishing a yeast infection from other vaginal conditions can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms. How can you tell the difference? Here’s a comparison of yeast infections with some common vaginal issues:

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Unlike yeast infections, BV often produces a fishy odor and thin, grayish discharge.
• Cytolytic Vaginosis: This condition can mimic yeast infection symptoms but is caused by an overgrowth of lactobacilli bacteria rather than fungi.
• Genital Herpes: While both can cause discomfort, herpes typically presents with painful blisters or sores.
• Vulvar Dermatitis: This skin condition can cause itching and redness but usually doesn’t involve vaginal discharge.
• Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus and Planus: These chronic conditions affect the vulvar skin and may cause itching and discomfort but don’t typically involve vaginal symptoms.

Given the similarity in symptoms, it’s crucial to get an accurate diagnosis before starting any treatment. A study of 220 symptomatic patients revealed that a staggering 77% of yeast infection diagnoses were incorrect, highlighting the importance of professional evaluation and testing.

Diagnostic Approaches: Ensuring Accurate Identification of Yeast Infections

How can you be sure you have a yeast infection? While recognizing symptoms is a good start, professional diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Here are some diagnostic methods commonly used:

1. Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will examine the vaginal area for signs of infection.
2. Vaginal pH Test: Yeast infections typically don’t alter vaginal pH, unlike some other conditions.
3. Microscopic Examination: A sample of vaginal discharge is examined under a microscope to identify yeast cells.
4. Fungal Culture: This test can identify the specific strain of Candida causing the infection.
5. Vaginal Microbiome Testing: Comprehensive tests like Evvy’s at-home vaginal microbiome test can provide a detailed analysis of your vaginal flora.

Why is accurate diagnosis so important? Misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment, prolonged discomfort, and potentially worsening of the underlying condition. By ensuring a correct diagnosis, you can receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your specific situation.

Treatment Options: Addressing Yeast Infections Effectively

Once a yeast infection is confirmed, what are the most effective treatment options? Treatment for yeast infections typically involves antifungal medications, which can be administered in various forms:

• Over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories (e.g., miconazole, clotrimazole)
• Prescription oral antifungal medication (e.g., fluconazole)
• Prescription antifungal creams or ointments for external use
• Boric acid suppositories for recurrent infections

The choice of treatment often depends on the severity of the infection, whether it’s a first-time occurrence or a recurrent issue, and any underlying health conditions. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning.

Natural Remedies: Complementary Approaches to Yeast Infection Treatment

While medical treatments are the primary approach, some women find relief from natural remedies. These may include:

• Probiotic supplements or foods to support vaginal flora balance
• Tea tree oil diluted in carrier oil for topical application (use with caution)
• Garlic, known for its antifungal properties, consumed in food or as a supplement
• Coconut oil, which has natural antifungal properties, used topically

It’s important to note that while these natural remedies may provide some relief, they should not replace professional medical advice or prescribed treatments. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new treatment approach.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing the Risk of Yeast Infections

How can you reduce your chances of developing a yeast infection? While it’s not always possible to prevent yeast infections entirely, several strategies can help minimize your risk:

• Maintain good hygiene, but avoid overwashing or using harsh soaps in the vaginal area
• Wear breathable, cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothes
• Change out of wet swimsuits or workout clothes promptly
• Avoid douching, which can disrupt the natural vaginal flora
• Manage stress levels and maintain a healthy diet rich in probiotics
• If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar levels under control
• Use antibiotics only when necessary, as they can disrupt vaginal flora

By incorporating these preventive measures into your routine, you can help maintain a healthy vaginal environment and reduce the likelihood of developing yeast infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Recognizing Serious Symptoms

While many yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter remedies, there are situations where professional medical attention is crucial. When should you consult a healthcare provider? Consider seeking medical help if:

• It’s your first suspected yeast infection
• Symptoms persist after using over-the-counter treatments
• You experience recurrent yeast infections (four or more in a year)
• You’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system
• You have severe symptoms or unusual discharge
• You’re unsure whether your symptoms indicate a yeast infection or another condition

Remember, early intervention can prevent complications and ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

The Role of Vaginal Microbiome Testing in Managing Yeast Infections

How can vaginal microbiome testing contribute to managing yeast infections? Comprehensive tests like Evvy’s at-home vaginal microbiome test offer several benefits:

• Accurate identification of the specific Candida species causing the infection
• Detection of other potential pathogens or imbalances in the vaginal flora
• Insights into the overall health of your vaginal microbiome
• Guidance for more targeted and effective treatment approaches
• Monitoring of treatment effectiveness and microbiome recovery

By providing a detailed analysis of your vaginal microbiome, these tests can help you and your healthcare provider make more informed decisions about treatment and prevention strategies.

Living with Recurrent Yeast Infections: Coping Strategies and Long-Term Management

For some women, recurrent yeast infections can be a persistent challenge. How can you manage this condition effectively? Here are some strategies for long-term management:

• Work with your healthcare provider to identify potential underlying causes
• Consider long-term suppressive antifungal therapy if recommended by your doctor
• Maintain a consistent preventive routine, including dietary and lifestyle modifications
• Keep a symptom diary to identify potential triggers or patterns
• Explore the use of probiotics specifically designed for vaginal health
• Consider regular vaginal microbiome testing to monitor your vaginal flora balance

Remember, while recurrent yeast infections can be frustrating, with proper management and care, many women successfully reduce the frequency and severity of their infections.

The Psychological Impact of Yeast Infections: Addressing Mental Health Concerns

How do yeast infections affect mental health? The discomfort and recurrence of yeast infections can take a toll on a woman’s mental well-being. Some common psychological effects include:

• Anxiety about potential outbreaks
• Stress related to sexual relationships
• Frustration with recurrent symptoms
• Embarrassment or self-consciousness
• Impact on overall quality of life

It’s important to address these psychological aspects alongside the physical symptoms. Consider speaking with a mental health professional if you’re struggling with the emotional impact of recurrent yeast infections. Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health in managing this condition.

The Future of Yeast Infection Treatment: Emerging Research and Innovations

What does the future hold for yeast infection treatment and prevention? Ongoing research is exploring several promising avenues:

• Development of new antifungal medications with improved efficacy and fewer side effects
• Exploration of vaginal microbiome modulation techniques to prevent Candida overgrowth
• Investigation of personalized treatment approaches based on individual microbiome profiles
• Research into the role of the immune system in preventing and managing yeast infections
• Development of advanced diagnostic tools for faster and more accurate identification of vaginal conditions

These advancements hold promise for more effective prevention and treatment strategies in the future, potentially reducing the burden of yeast infections for many women.

Understanding yeast infections, from their appearance and symptoms to effective treatment and prevention strategies, is crucial for maintaining vaginal health. By staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers, women can better manage these common yet often misunderstood infections. Remember, every woman’s experience is unique, and personalized care is key to addressing yeast infections effectively.

What Does a Yeast Infection Look Like?

When something’s up down there, your first thought might be “a yeast infection” — but we’ll be the first to tell you that not every itch is a yeast infection! 

Diagnosing a yeast infection correctly starts with being able to identify symptoms and ends with getting comprehensive testing to confirm that the discomfort is being caused by an overgrowth of Candida and not something else. 

In fact, being misdiagnosed actually happens more often than being correctly diagnosed. A study of 220 symptomatic patients showed that a startling 77% of yeast infection diagnoses were incorrect

It’s important to learn the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection, including what it looks like, in order to better advocate for yourself at the doctor’s office. 

Wondering where to start? We’re here to help. 

From what a yeast infection looks like to how it feels, we break down everything you need to know about the physical manifestations of a yeast infection below.  

What is a yeast infection?  

A yeast infection, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis, is caused by an overgrowth of a  fungi called Candida in the vaginal microbiome. Most yeast infections (up to 90%) are caused by a species of Candida called Candida albicans.

But there are other strains that can overgrow in the same way. These include Candida glabrata (C. glabrata), which is responsible for around 5% of cases, plus C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei, among others. 

What does a yeast infection look like? 

When it comes to physical signs, the symptoms of a yeast infection can be vague enough that they can overlap with other vaginal conditions including share similar physical symptoms to bacterial vaginosis, cytolytic vaginosis, genital herpes, and certain vulvar conditions including vulvar lichen sclerosus, vulvar lichen planus, and contact dermatitis. 

A yeast infection can look like:

• Thick, vaginal discharge that is paste-like in consistency and looks like curdled milk or cottage cheese 
• A red, scaly rash that can spread beyond the vulva and onto the buttocks 
• A red, swollen vulva and vagina

Yeast infections usually don’t cause wounds, ulcers, or bumps on the skin, though it can be hard to differentiate these things if your yeast infection is causing a rash so it’s best to reach out to a healthcare provider if this is the case.  

Can I see a picture of what a yeast infection looks like? 

One of the most frustrating things about Googling vaginal symptoms is that it’s hard to produce an image of discharge or a description of an odor that encompasses everyone’s unique vaginal symptoms. Everything from the severity of an infection to lighting and underwear color can affect the way something like “yeast infection discharge” looks in a picture.  The best way to figure out if you have a yeast infection is to actually test for it! 

While we don’t have a particularly helpful picture of what real yeast infection discharge looks like because it can vary so much from person to person, we’re sharing a picture of what cottage cheese looks like to help anchor you on what you should be looking for.  

Fig 1 -> Cottage cheese

What does a yeast infection feel like?  

Unlike bacterial vaginosis where up to 84% of people are asymptomatic, most people with a yeast infection know they have one because of the physical discomfort it causes.

Common physical symptoms of a yeast infection may include:

• Vaginal and vulvar itching, redness, or soreness
• White vaginal discharge, that is curd-like in consistency 
• Pain during sex 
• Soreness or stinging when you pee, or during sex

Do yeast infections smell? 

Not typically! You may notice an increasingly yeasty smell down there, like beer or bread, but it’s also normal to have no odor at all. If you notice a smell you would characterize as foul, rotten, or fishy, it may be a different condition such as BV, aerobic vaginitis, trichomoniasis, or gonorrhea—in which case it’s best to seek medical attention ASAP.

What do I do if I think I have a yeast infection? 

If you’re worried that you have a yeast infection, you’re not alone! Up to 75% of women will get a yeast infection in their lifetime!

Recurrent symptoms? Meet Evvy’s at-home vaginal microbiome test, approved by leading OB-GYNs.

Learn more

Get yourself a vaginal microbiome test 

Before or after you’re done making your appointment, do yourself (and your vagina) a favor by ordering a vaginal microbiome test, like Evvy’s, so you know exactly what’s up down there while you’re having symptoms. 

Like we mentioned above, many of the symptoms associated with a yeast infection: burning, itching, inflammation, discharge, and pain with sex and urination overlap with those of other vaginal conditions such as: 

• Aerobic vaginitis
• Bacterial vaginosis 
• Cytolytic vaginosis 
• Vulvar dermatitis 
• Vulvar lichen sclerosus 
• Vulvar lichen planus 

For this reason, vaginal symptoms (and what’s triggering them) can turn into a multi-season mystery show faster than you can say “vulva.”  

Unlike a PCR test, which only looks for the presence of select microbes, an Evvy test will tell you all of the types of bacteria and fungi in your vaginal microbiome, and their relative amounts.  

That means we test for Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei, among others with a single swab. 

Knowing this information can help you and your doctor make a plan for maintaining vaginal health that feels good for you and your body. 

Get care for yeast infections with Evvy

We’ve created the first-ever platform for vaginal healthcare that combines state-of-the-art vaginal microbiome testing, prescription treatment, and 1:1 coaching to get you the answers, relief, and support that you deserve. 

Built with leading OB-GYNs and researchers, Evvy’s care platform can connect you to providers trained to review your vaginal microbiome results and select the best antifungal to decrease your specific strains of Candida (including ones that aren’t often tested for at the doctor’s office.) 

They’ll also recommend research-backed supplements to build back your microbiome to a protective state! 

Vaginal yeast infection Information | Mount Sinai

Yeast infection – vagina; Vaginal candidiasis; Monilial vaginitis

Vaginal yeast infection is an infection of the vagina. It is most commonly due to the fungus Candida albicans.

This microscopic film shows a fluorescent stain of Candida. Candida is a yeast (fungus) that causes mild disease, but in immunocompromised individuals it may cause life-threatening illness. (Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

External structures of the female reproductive anatomy include the labium minora and majora, the vagina and the clitoris. Internal structures include the uterus, ovaries, and cervix.

Yeast infections may follow a course of antibiotics that were prescribed for another purpose. The antibiotics change the normal balance between organisms in the vagina by suppressing the growth of protective bacteria that normally have an antifungal effect.

Secondary infection occurs during or after treatment of a primary infection because the normal bacterial flora is destroyed, allowing yeast to flourish.

The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. The ovaries produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes. Once the egg has left the ovary it can be fertilized and implant itself in the lining of the uterus. The main function of the uterus is to nourish the developing fetus prior to birth.

The uterus is a muscular organ with thick walls, two upper openings to the fallopian tubes and an inferior opening to the vagina.

Causes

Most women have a vaginal yeast infection at some time. Candida albicans is a common type of fungus. It is often found in small amounts in the vagina, mouth, digestive tract, and on the skin. Most of the time, it does not cause infection or symptoms.

Candida and the many other germs that normally live in the vagina keep each other in balance. Sometimes the number of candida increases. This leads to a yeast infection.

This can happen if:

• You are taking antibiotics used to treat another infection. Antibiotics change the normal balance between germs in the vagina.
• You are pregnant
• You are obese
• You have diabetes
• You are taking medicines or have an illness that suppresses your immune system.

A yeast infection is not spread through sexual contact. However, some men may develop symptoms after having sexual contact with an infected partner. These symptoms may include itching, rash or irritation of the penis.

Having many vaginal yeast infections may be a sign of other health problems. Other vaginal infections and discharges can be mistaken for a vaginal yeast infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge. Discharge can range from slightly watery, white discharge to thick, white, and chunky (like cottage cheese).
• Itching and burning of the vagina and labia
• Pain with intercourse
• Painful urination
• Redness and swelling of the skin just outside of the vagina (vulva)

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider will do a pelvic exam. It may show:

• Swelling and redness of the skin of the vulva, in the vagina, and on the cervix
• Dry, white spots on the vaginal wall
• Cracks in the skin of the vulva

A small amount of the vaginal discharge is examined using a microscope. This is called a wet mount and KOH test.

Sometimes, a culture is taken if:

• The infection does not get better with treatment
• The infection recurs

Your provider may order other tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms.

Treatment

Medicines to treat vaginal yeast infections are available as creams, ointments, vaginal tablets or suppositories and oral tablets. Most can be bought without needing to see your provider. If you do need to see your provider, you may wish to ask them about the use of boric acid for yeast infections.

Treating yourself at home is probably OK if:

• Your symptoms are mild and you do not have pelvic pain or a fever
• This is not your first yeast infection and you have not had many yeast infections in the past
• You are not pregnant
• You are not worried about other sexually transmitted infections (STI) from recent sexual contact

Medicines you can buy yourself to treat a vaginal yeast infection are:

• Miconazole
• Clotrimazole
• Tioconazole
• Butoconazole

When using these medicines:

• Read the packages carefully and use them as directed.
• You will need to take the medicine for 1 to 7 days, depending on which medicine you buy. (If you do not get repeated infections, a 1-day medicine might work for you.)
• Do not stop using these medicines early because your symptoms are better.

You doctor can also prescribe a pill that you only take by mouth once.

If your symptoms are worse or you get vaginal yeast infections often, you may need:

• Medicine for up to 14 days
• Azole vaginal cream or fluconazole pill every week to prevent new infections

To help prevent and treat vaginal discharge:

• Keep your genital area clean and dry. Avoid soap and rinse with water only. Sitting in a warm, but not hot, bath may help your symptoms.
• Avoid douching. Although many women feel cleaner if they douche after their period or intercourse, it may worsen vaginal discharge. Douching removes healthy bacteria lining the vagina that protect against infection.
• Eat yogurt with live cultures or take Lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when you are on antibiotics. This may help to prevent a yeast infection.
• Use condoms to avoid catching or spreading other infections.
• Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays, fragrances, or powders in the genital area.
• Avoid wearing tight-fitting pants or shorts. These may cause irritation and sweating.
• Wear cotton underwear or cotton-crotch pantyhose. Avoid underwear made of silk or nylon. These can increase sweating in the genital area, which leads to growth of more yeast.
• Keep your blood sugar level under good control if you have diabetes.
• Avoid wearing wet bathing suits or exercise clothing for long periods of time. Wash sweaty or wet clothes after each use.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Most of the time, symptoms go away completely with proper treatment.

Possible Complications

A lot of scratching may cause the skin to crack, making you more likely to get a skin infection.

A woman may have diabetes or weak immune system (such as in HIV) if:

• The infection recurs right after treatment
• The yeast infection does not respond well to treatment

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your provider if:

• This is the first time that you have had symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection.
• You are not sure if you have a yeast infection.
• Your symptoms don’t go away after using over-the-counter medicines.
• Your symptoms get worse.
• You develop other symptoms.
• You may have been exposed to an STI.

Dinulos JGH. Superficial fungal infections. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif’s Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and Therapy. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 13.

Eckert LO, Lentz GM. Genital tract infections: vulva, vagina, cervix, toxic shock syndrome, endometritis, and salpingitis. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Valea FA, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 23.

Kauffman CA, Pappas PG. Candidiasis. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 318.

Oquendo Del Toro HM, Hoefgen HR. Vulvovaginitis. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 564.

Last reviewed on: 7/13/2021

Reviewed by: John D. Jacobson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Treatment of thrush in women – modern approaches, preparations || Medical Center “Centromed”

The term thrush (vaginal candidiasis) characterizes the fungal process of the genital tract of a woman, caused by parasitism of fungi of the genus Candida. This pathology requires an integrated approach to the diagnosis of its causes, followed by adequate therapy. Specialists of the Centromed medical clinic in Rostov-on-Don use modern laboratory equipment for diagnostics. For therapy, systemic approaches and correctly selected drugs are used.

Mechanism of development and causes

The causative agent leading to the development of thrush is a fungus of the genus Candida. These microorganisms are representatives of conditionally pathogenic flora, they are always present in small quantities on the vaginal mucosa. When exposed to certain conditions, provoking factors, they are activated, with the growth and reproduction of fungal cells, which leads to the development of the inflammatory process. The provocative factors of candidiasis are:

• Chronic infections caused by other pathogens.
• Long-term antibiotic treatment that kills a significant amount of normal bacteria.
• Changes in the hormonal background, with sharp changes in the level of estrogens, progesterone.
• Metabolic disorders of the body with an increase in sugar levels (diabetes mellitus).
• Immunodeficiency – acquired or congenital decrease in the functional activity of the immune system.
• Pregnancy is a physiological state of a woman’s body, in which the functioning of all its systems is restructured.
• Hormone therapy, including oral contraceptives.

A gynecologist in Rostov-on-Don finds out the main causative factor in the development of candidiasis, which determines the tactics of its treatment further.

Symptoms

Vaginal candidiasis is characterized by local (local) symptoms that bring significant discomfort to a woman’s life. These include itching of the vulva and vagina, and a burning sensation that may increase during menstruation. Often develops dyspareunia – soreness during sex. From the genital tract, characteristic white discharge begins to stand out (hence the name thrush).

Symptoms of the underlying disease that caused the development of vaginal candidiasis also often develop. With the development of such a pathology as thrush in women, the symptoms and treatment of should be interconnected, since the elimination of the main cause of its development will make the therapy more effective.

Diagnosis

Microscopic examination of secretions from the genital tract is performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of thrush in women

Modern therapeutic measures for the development of vaginal candidiasis include the implementation of several stages of therapy, which include:

• Reducing the number of Candida cells, which is carried out using broad-spectrum antifungals. In mild cases, local and systemic preparations based on clotrimazole, isoconazole, miconazole, kanamycin are used. Treatment of thrush during pregnancy is carried out only with the use of local forms of drugs (suppositories or douches).
• Restoration of the normal microflora of the vagina – the use of eubiotics that contain bacteria of the normal microflora – lactobacilli, bifidobacteria. They are taken orally as capsules and topically as vaginal suppositories.
• Measures aimed at eliminating the impact of provoking factors of candidiasis – therapy of diabetes mellitus, hormonal disorders, correction of hormonal therapy, restoration of the functional activity of the immune system.

Treatment of chronic thrush is carried out with the mandatory inclusion of eubiotics, which are used for a long period of time. After treatment of thrush, a woman needs to take preventive measures aimed at eliminating the impact of provoking factors. Therapy of this pathology in Rostov-on-Don is carried out by our clinic, taking into account all the factors of successful therapy.

What is thrush (Vaginal candidiasis) ➤➤ Types, causes of development and treatment of thrush

Feelings of itching, burning, discomfort in the vulva were experienced by many women. Is it thrush or vaginal candidiasis.

What is thrush

Thrush (vaginal candidiasis) is an inflammatory disease of the female genital organs, provoked by opportunistic yeast fungi of the genus Candida. It does not belong to the category of venereal. Symptoms include pain, itching, burning in the vulva. Most often occurs in women, but, in rare cases, affects men (for 4 cases of women, there is 1 case of men). This type of fungus is found in the body of all people, but in small quantities. When there is an imbalance in the microflora of the body, the growth of Candida fungi occurs, accompanied by symptoms of thrush.

Why thrush occurs

Causes that provoke the onset of the disease can be divided into several types:

Past stresses, especially frequent and in large quantities, have a negative effect on the body’s defenses. There is an activation of the yeast microflora, symptoms of thrush appear;

Symptoms of thrush

Vaginal candidiasis has several key symptoms that clearly indicate the disease:

• very severe itching in the intimate area that does not stop for a long time;
• burning sensation in the vagina, especially during intercourse;
• curdled discharge, sometimes very profuse, with an unpleasant sour smell;
• redness of the mucous membranes of the vagina;

If we are talking about candidiasis, then all of the above symptoms should be combined. If one thing worries, then this may indicate a completely different disease.

In men, thrush is also characterized by burning during urination, itching, swelling and redness in the area of ​​the head of the penis, as well as pain during intercourse.

Stages of thrush

• acute inflammatory process: symptoms of vaginal candidiasis are very pronounced;
• chronic thrush: in this case, the discomfort may be either completely invisible or mild.

If vaginal candidiasis has passed into the chronic stage and is almost not disturbing, this does not mean that you can not worry about it. Treatment, in any case, is necessary, since the disease, left to chance, can be repeated again and again.

Methods for diagnosing the disease

In order to determine whether you are really worried about thrush, it is not enough just to feel all the symptoms. It is also important to consult a gynecologist. The doctor will conduct an examination, collect an anamnesis of the patient, listen to complaints about the symptoms, their duration. In addition, an analysis is taken to study the microflora (bakposev) from the mucous membrane of the cervix and vagina. After the results are obtained, the doctor makes recommendations for treatment.

In addition, thrush, which often recurs, may indicate other diseases, such as diabetes. Therefore, a gynecologist may recommend taking a blood test for sugar, in the future – a consultation with an endocrinologist.

Treatment options for thrush

Your gynecologist may recommend several treatment options for thrush, depending on the severity of the condition.

• Topical treatment: gels, creams, ointments, vaginal tablets. This type of treatment is aimed at restoring the local microflora and improving local immunity. It is used in the early stages of the disease.
• Treatment with tablets: in the case when thrush has become chronic, then gynecologists prescribe treatment with tablets, often in combination with local remedies. The course of treatment is from 6 to 14 days, depending on the patient’s condition. It is important to follow all the doctor’s recommendations, not to interrupt the course of treatment, even if the condition improves, otherwise a relapse is likely.
• Diet for thrush: It is important to follow dietary recommendations during drug treatment to increase the beneficial bacteria in the gut. It is necessary to give preference to fermented milk products, fresh vegetables, fruits, cereals, excluding sweets, flour, pastries.

Drugs for the treatment of thrush

The safest and most effective drugs for the treatment of thrush, in tablet form:

• Pimafucin;
• Futsis;
• Clotrimazole;
• Nystatin;
• Diflucan.

Clotrimazole and Pimafucin are also available as topical creams. This format is suitable for the treatment of symptoms of thrush in men.

In addition, the gynecologist may prescribe probiotics to normalize the intestinal microflora. They are available in the form of suspensions, capsules, powders, tablets.

It is important to remember that you should not self-medicate, especially if you have already had recurrences of candidiasis, you are prone to allergic reactions. Doctors select drugs for thrush according to individual criteria.

Prevention of thrush

To eliminate the risks of thrush, a number of preventive measures must be taken.

• Underwear should be comfortable, preferably cotton.
• Wet clothing should be changed to dry immediately. This applies to visiting the pool, swimming in ponds. In a humid environment, fungi grow much faster.
• Hot baths also promote the growth of Candida, so do not overdo it. But water at a comfortable temperature does not cause such development of fungi.
• Uncontrolled intake of antibiotics provokes a violation of the microflora, causing the development of candidiasis. Therefore, the decision to prescribe antibiotics should be made only by a doctor.