How can I diagnose a yeast infection?. What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?. When should I see my doctor for a yeast infection?. How do doctors diagnose yeast infections?. What treatments are available for yeast infections?.

Understanding Yeast Infections: Symptoms and Causes

Yeast infections, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis, are a common and often annoying condition that affects many women. The infection is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida yeast, which is naturally found in the vagina. This can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including itching, burning, redness, and a thick, curd-like discharge.

The symptoms of a yeast infection can sometimes be mistaken for other health issues, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This is why it’s important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis, rather than attempting to self-diagnose and self-treat.

Diagnosing Yeast Infections: When to See Your Doctor

If you suspect you have a yeast infection, it’s crucial to seek medical attention, especially if you’ve never been diagnosed with one before. While over-the-counter treatments are available, these may not be appropriate for all types of yeast infections or for certain individuals, such as pregnant women.

Your gynecologist or healthcare provider can confirm a yeast infection diagnosis by performing a pelvic exam and taking a sample of the vaginal discharge for microscopic examination. This allows them to identify the specific type of Candida causing the infection and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Yeast Infection Treatments: Navigating Your Options

Most mild to moderate yeast infections can be effectively treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, tablets, or suppositories. These treatments typically last from one to seven days, depending on the medication used.

For more persistent or complicated yeast infections, your healthcare provider may prescribe a stronger topical or oral medication. This is especially important if your infection is caused by a less common type of Candida, as these may require a more aggressive or extended treatment approach.

Preventing Recurrent Yeast Infections

For some women, yeast infections can be a recurring problem. Factors that may contribute to recurrent infections include a weakened immune system, diabetes, antibiotic use, and certain lifestyle factors.

To help prevent future yeast infections, it’s important to maintain good hygiene, wear breathable underwear, and avoid douching or using scented feminine products. If you experience frequent yeast infections, your healthcare provider may recommend long-term treatment or further testing to identify the underlying cause.

Seeking Medical Attention: When to Call Your Doctor

If you experience any of the common symptoms of a yeast infection, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider, even if you’ve had one before. Certain situations, such as pregnancy or a weakened immune system, may require more specialized care or a different treatment approach.

Additionally, if your symptoms don’t improve with over-the-counter treatment or if you experience recurrent infections, it’s important to seek medical attention to ensure the proper diagnosis and management of your condition.

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis

Accurately diagnosing a yeast infection is crucial, as the symptoms can be similar to other, more serious health conditions. By seeking medical attention and allowing your healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis, you can ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment and avoid potential complications or worsening of the infection.

Remember, while yeast infections are common, they should not be taken lightly. Seeking professional medical care and following the recommended treatment plan can help you find relief and prevent the infection from becoming more difficult to manage.

Conclusion

Yeast infections can be an uncomfortable and frustrating experience, but with the right knowledge and medical care, they can be effectively diagnosed and treated. By understanding the symptoms, seeking professional guidance, and following the recommended treatment plan, you can take control of your health and find relief from this common condition.

How Yeast Infections Are Diagnosed

Symptoms of a yeast infection are very similar to the warning signs of other health issues, so you may be at risk if you diagnose it yourself. Find out when you should check in with your gynecologist.

By Mary Elizabeth DallasMedically Reviewed by Niya Jones, MD, MPH

Reviewed: July 31, 2014

Medically Reviewed

An obstetrician or gynecologist can confirm a yeast infection by performing a pelvic exam.iStock

Vaginal itching, redness, and discharge sound like sure signs of a yeast infection — a fungal infection that’s as common as it is annoying. As apparent as the infection may seem, however, you may face some risks if you diagnose or treat it yourself. These symptoms can also be a red flag for other, more serious health issues. The only way to know for sure is to see your gynecologist — especially if you’ve never been diagnosed with a yeast infection before.

Symptoms of a Yeast Infection

Vulvovaginal candidiasis, more commonly known as a yeast infection, develops when there’s an overgrowth of the Candida yeast normally found in the vagina. The infection can cause a number of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Itching in and around the vagina
• A burning sensation in the vaginal area
• Redness, soreness, or irritation in and around the vagina
• Vaginal discharge ranging from thin and watery to thick and curd-like

If you have a yeast infection, you might experience other warning signs such as painful urination, says Sarah Wagner, MD, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Loyola University Health System in Maywood, Ill. “This is caused by urine making contact with an irritated vulva,” she says.

Some women may also experience redness and swelling, says Oluwatosin Jaiyeoba, MD, an obstetrician/gynecologist with the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. “These symptoms can develop inside the vagina as well as externally,” she says.

Why It’s Important to See Your Doctor for a Yeast Infection

If you suspect you have a yeast infection, you should see your doctor to confirm a diagnosis and get treatment. Ignoring or delaying treatment for a yeast infection can make the condition more difficult to manage.

There are a number of yeast infection medications now available without a prescription. These antifungal treatments are available in creams, tablets, and suppositories that are inserted into the vagina. Depending on the type of medication you use, treatment can last from one to seven days.

The easy availability of over-the-counter treatments can tempt women who experience the symptoms associated with a yeast infection to self-diagnose and self-treat. That’s not necessarily a good idea, however — especially if you’ve never been officially diagnosed with a yeast infection before.

Some common symptoms of yeast infection could also be signs of another type of infection that requires antibiotics. For instance, yeast infections and urinary tract infections share common symptoms, such as a burning sensation when urinating, Dr. Jaiyeoba says. The signs of a yeast infection are also very similar to certain sexually transmitted infections, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, as well as conditions such as contact dermatitis and bacterial vaginosis.

You should be especially cautious about self-diagnosing a yeast infection if you’re pregnant. Talk to your doctor before using any form of treatment for a suspected yeast infection, particularly if you are in your first trimester.

Diagnosing Yeast Infections at the Doctor’s Office

A diagnosis of yeast infection begins with your gynecologist taking your medical history and asking about your symptoms. Your doctor can confirm a diagnosis by performing a pelvic exam. During the exam, a speculum is inserted in the vagina to allow the doctor to check for symptoms such as swelling or discharge.

Doctors also generally take a sample of discharge with a swab from within the vagina and examine it under a microscope in the office, Wagner says, so a diagnosis can be made right away.

Prescription Treatment for Yeast Infection

Most cases of mild to moderate yeast infection can be treated with an over-the-counter antifungal cream, ointment, tablet, or suppository. If you’re diagnosed with a yeast infection that doesn’t respond to an over-the-counter treatment, your doctor may prescribe a stronger topical or oral medication. Typically, a single dose of oral antifungal medication is sufficient to treat most yeast infections.

For women with recurring or persistent yeast infections, however, one dose may not be enough. Yeast infections are most commonly caused by a type of yeast called Candida albicans, which responds well to typical treatments. But they can also be caused by other types of Candida, which may require longer or more aggressive treatment. “Patients who have a complicated infection because they have a suppressed immune system or they are infected with a non-albicans yeast might need more than one dose,” Jaiyeoba says.

By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

What Is a Yeast Infection? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

A vaginal yeast infection results from overgrowth of yeast (fungus) of the genus candida. Learn about symptoms, treatment options, home cures, sex-related…

By Joseph Bennington-CastroFebruary 1, 2023

What Causes Vaginal Yeast Infections?

Yeast is a normal part of the microbes that live in various moist areas throughout the body, including the mouth, rectum, vagina, and parts of your skin…

By Joseph Bennington-CastroOctober 21, 2022

Yeast Infections and Sex: What You Need to Know

Having sex while treating a yeast infection can be problematic: Intercourse may interfere with medication, and condoms may be damaged by yeast infection…

By Joseph Bennington-CastroOctober 21, 2022

Vaginal Yeast Infection Signs and Symptoms

Itching or burning in the vaginal area and around the vulva and burning during urination are some of the first signs of a yeast infection. Read on to …

By Joseph Bennington-CastroOctober 21, 2022

Home Remedies for Vaginal Yeast Infections

Treating vaginal yeast infections typically requires killing the fungi with antifungal medication. For many years natural remedies and therapies have …

By Joseph Bennington-CastroOctober 6, 2022

Preventing Vaginal Yeast Infections

Vaginal yeast infection risk factors have been identified. Learn about them, what to eat in your diet, and how to stop getting chronic or recurrent vaginal…

By Joseph Bennington-CastroSeptember 27, 2022

Best Treatments for Vaginal Yeast Infections

Yeast infection treatments include over-the-counter medicines like fluconazole and antifungal creams like nystatin. Read more to learn how to find the…

By Joseph Bennington-CastroSeptember 27, 2022

Bacterial Vaginosis vs. Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are the second most common cause of vaginal infections. The primary cause is actually bacterial vaginosis (BV). Learn about the specific…

By November 17, 2017

Chronic Yeast Infections: 11 Common Causes & Solutions

From panty liners that could be making it worse to your immune system not being up to par, here are top 11 reasons you might be suffering from a chronic. ..

By November 17, 2017

What Is Candida Albicans?

Candida albicans (C. albicans ) is a type of yeast that’s a healthy, normal part of the microbes that live in your body, but it can contribute to yeast…

By Joseph Bennington-CastroSeptember 9, 2014

How Do I Get Testing & Treatment For Vaginitis & Yeast Infections?

In This Section

• Vaginitis (yeast infection & bacterial vaginosis)

• How do I get checked and treated for vaginitis?

• How do I prevent vaginitis?

• What is a yeast infection?

• What is bacterial vaginosis?

A nurse or doctor can tell if you have vaginitis, and help figure out why it happened. Vaginitis treatments vary depending on what’s causing the problem.

Do I have to go to the doctor if I have vaginitis?

If you have symptoms of vaginitis, it’s a good idea to see your nurse, doctor, or local Planned Parenthood health center. Vaginitis isn’t usually a major health problem, but if you don’t get it treated it can become serious.

There are many different causes of vaginitis, and STDs like gonorrhea and chlamydia can have symptoms that are really similar to vaginitis. Seeing a doctor is the best way to find out exactly what’s going on, so you can get the right treatment.

To see what’s causing your vaginitis, your doctor may do an exam, look at a sample of your vaginal discharge under a microscope, or do other tests, like a urine test.

If your doctor has diagnosed you with a vaginal yeast infections before and you’re having the same symptoms, you can try an over-the-counter yeast infection medicine. But if you’re not sure, see your doctor or go to a Planned Parenthood health center. And if you used an over-the-counter medicine but your symptoms don’t go away, see a doctor.

What are the treatments for vaginitis?

Vaginitis is usually easy to cure.  The type of vaginitis treatment that’s best for you depends on:

• what’s causing your vaginitis

• how bad your symptoms are

• whether you’re pregnant

If your vaginitis is caused by a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, or trich, your doctor may give you a prescription for creams, suppositories, vaginal tablets, or pills. You can also get medicated creams or suppositories for yeast infections (like Monistat) at the drugstore without a prescription. Trich is the only type of vaginitis that’s sexually transmitted. So if you have trich it’s very important for your sexual partners to get treated, too.

If your vaginitis is caused by an allergy or irritation, the symptoms will usually go away when you stop using whatever’s causing the problem. Sometimes you might need to use a cream to help clear up your vaginitis. In rare cases of really bad allergic reactions, you may need emergency medical help.

If your vaginitis is caused by low levels of estrogen, your doctor may give you a prescription for creams, pills, or vaginal rings that release estrogen into your body.

No matter what type of vaginitis treatment you need, make sure you:

• Don’t use anybody else’s medicine. Even if your symptoms are similar, you may have a different infection or need a different kind of treatment.

• Don’t use old medicine. It may not work anymore, and it could even make the infection worse.

• Carefully follow your doctor’s instructions or the directions that come with your treatment.

• Use ALL of your medicine. The infection can come back if you don’t take all your medicine, even if your symptoms stop and even if you have your period.

• Go to a follow-up appointment with your doctor to make sure the treatment worked.

During your vaginitis treatment:

• Don’t put anything in your vagina except medicine or tampons. Take a break from oral or vaginal sex until you feel better.

• If you have your period, it’s okay to use tampons or menstrual cups, unless it’s the kind of medicine you put into your vagina. If that’s the case, use pads instead.

• If you’re using gels or creams inside your vagina, you can use unscented pads or panty liners to help keep the medicine from leaking onto your clothes.

How can I ease irritating symptoms of vaginitis?

Even though vaginitis can be super itchy and irritating, try not to scratch. It can cause more irritation or cuts in your skin, which can spread germs and lead to more infection. There are over-the-counter vaginal creams that you can use on your vulva to help calm the irritation. Your doctor can also give you tips on relieving burning and itching.

Avoid sex until your infection or irritation goes away (especially if you have trich, because it’s a sexually transmitted infection that you and your partner can pass back and forth). Friction from sex and your partner’s body fluids can cause more irritation or make it harder to heal. And some medicines that you use in your vagina have oil in them, which can cause condoms to break.

Where can I get checked and treated for vaginitis?

You can get checked and treated for vaginitis at your local Planned Parenthood health center, community or reproductive health clinics, or your ob/gyn or family doctor.

Was this page helpful?

• Yes

• No

Help us improve – how could this information be more helpful?

How did this information help you?

Please answer below.

Are you human? (Sorry, we have to ask!)

Please don’t check this box if you are a human.

You’re the best! Thanks for your feedback.

Thanks for your feedback.

Back to top

We couldn’t access your location, please search for a location.

Zip, City, or State

Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code or city or state.

Please fill out this field.

Service
All Services
Abortion

Abortion Referrals

Birth Control

COVID-19 Vaccine

HIV Services

Men’s Health Care

Mental Health

Morning-After Pill (Emergency Contraception)

Pregnancy Testing & Services

Primary Care

STD Testing, Treatment & Vaccines

Transgender Hormone Therapy

Women’s Health Care

Filter By
All
Telehealth
In-person

Please enter your age and the first day of your last period for more accurate abortion options. Your information is private and anonymous.

AGE

This field is required.

Or call
1-800-230-7526

symptoms, causes and effective treatments

Contents

• 1 Thrush: symptoms, causes and effective treatments
  • 1.1 Thrush: what is it?
  • 1.2 How does thrush manifest itself?
  • 1.3 Progressive infection
    • 1.3.1 Causes of thrush in women
  • 1.4 How is thrush diagnosed?
  • 1.5 A doctor who treats thrush
  • 1.6 Medical treatment of thrush
  • 1.7 Topical preparations: effective treatment for thrush
  • 1.8 How can you treat thrush yourself?
    • 1.8.1 Using folk remedies
  • 1.9 How to prevent thrush?
  • 1.10 Does diet affect thrush?
  • 1.11 When should I see a doctor if I have thrush?
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are the symptoms of thrush?
      • 1.13. 0.2 What are the causes of thrush?
      • 1.13.0.3 How to treat thrush at home?
      • 1.13.0.4 What medicines can be taken for thrush?
      • 1.13.0.5 How can thrush be prevented?
      • 1.13.0.6 Can I get pregnant with thrush?

Thrush is a disease caused by the fungus Candida and is characterized by burning, itching and discharge from the vagina. Find out how to treat thrush at home and why it is important to consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Thrush is a common gynecological disease that occurs when the acid-base balance in the vagina is disturbed and leads to infection with the yeast Candida albicans. This disease can manifest itself in women of all ages and become an unpleasant problem in the life of every third girl.

The symptoms of thrush can range from obvious vaginal discharge, itching and burning to painful urination and white patches on the vaginal mucosa.

According to statistics, thrush can be diagnosed in every second woman, however, not everyone goes to the doctor and starts therapy on time, which can lead to the development of more serious diseases.

In this article, we will look at the causes of thrush, the main symptoms and effective methods of its treatment, as well as share useful recommendations on how to avoid the occurrence of this disease and prevent its development in the future.

Thrush: what is it?

Thrush (candidiasis) is a fungal disease caused by Candida albicans. This fungus is found in all people in small quantities, but under some circumstances it can cause illness. Candidiasis is most common in women, but men can also be affected.

The manifestations of thrush may be different depending on the location of the lesion. It can manifest itself on the skin, mucous membranes of the throat, intestines, genitals and other organs.

It should be noted that thrush is highly contagious, that is, the ability to be transmitted from person to person through sexual intercourse or contact with the genitals. Therefore, it is very important not only to treat the disease, but also to prevent its occurrence.

How does thrush manifest itself?

Thrush is a disease that affects the female body. It is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. The main symptoms of thrush are:

• burning and itching in the vaginal area;
• vaginal discharge, which may be white and mucosal;
• soreness during intercourse;
• painful urination;
• bad smell from the vagina.

If you have the symptoms described above, you should immediately contact your gynecologist. The specialist will conduct the necessary research and make a diagnosis. Only a doctor can choose the right therapeutic course and prescribe medications for the treatment of thrush.

Progressive infection

Causes of thrush in women

Thrush most often occurs in women of reproductive age and is associated with the reproduction of Candida in the groin, on the mucous surface of the genital organs or in the vagina. This fungus is a natural component of the microflora of the skin and mucous membranes, however, if the balance of other bacteria and microorganisms is disturbed, it can multiply, leading to thrush. Also, factors contributing to the development of thrush can be elevated blood sugar levels, decreased immunity, hormonal imbalance and antibiotics.

Thrush can also be caused by contact with an infected partner, so it is important to use condoms and keep menstrual and hygiene products clean.

A progressive infection with can lead to a weakening of the general condition of the body, as well as cause complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Therefore, it is important to seek medical help in a timely manner and undergo annual preventive examinations.

How is thrush diagnosed?

To diagnose thrush, the doctor performs a visual examination of the vagina and uses microscopic methods. During the examination, the doctor assesses the condition of the vaginal mucosa: is it inflamed or not, how much is the quality of the discharge. The doctor also takes a swab from the vagina for further analysis.

The doctor may also recommend that the patient take a blood test for the presence of antibodies to the causative agent of thrush. This allows you to determine the degree of infection and the development of the disease.

1. Visual examination and vaginal swab analysis are the main methods for diagnosing thrush;
2. Additional tests may help clarify the diagnosis;
3. Blood test for antibodies allows you to assess the degree of infection of the body.

A doctor who treats thrush

A gynecologist who specializes in women’s diseases and problems with the reproductive system can treat thrush. Also, you may need to consult an infectious disease specialist if the infection has led to complications and infection of other organs.

A gynecologist will examine you and take tests to diagnose thrush. For this, swabs, blood, urine or other methods of research can be used.

Remember that the treatment of thrush is mandatory and you should immediately consult a gynecologist when symptoms of the disease appear.

Medical treatment of thrush

Thrush is an infectious disease caused by the fungus Candida. Drug treatment of thrush is based on the use of antimycotic drugs. They come in the form of capsules, tablets, creams, suppositories, or oral solutions.

The most popular and effective drugs for the treatment of thrush are fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole. They slow down the growth and reproduction of fungi, and also help eliminate the infection from the body.

When using antimycotic drugs, you must follow all the doctor’s recommendations and continue taking the drugs until the end of the course in order to completely get rid of the infection.

You can also use topical creams, suppositories, or vaginal irrigation solutions. They help reduce itching and burning in the genital area, as well as eliminate the necessary infection.

• Fluconazole – taken once orally at a dosage of 150 mg;
• Itraconazole – taken as a single dose of 200 mg;
• Ketoconazole – taken every day for 1-2 weeks, depending on the severity of the disease.

Treatment of thrush with medication should only be carried out under the supervision of a physician and in accordance with the recommendations of the instructions for use of the drugs. Self-medication can be dangerous and lead to unwanted side effects and relapses of the disease.

Topical preparations: an effective treatment for thrush

Topical preparations are often used for thrush, as they are aimed at treating the symptoms and causes of the disease, which are located in the local female organs.

Antibacterial drugs is the main method of combating thrush. They kill bacteria and prevent their spread. Depending on the form of the drug, it can be applied to the skin or injected into the vagina.

• Antibacterial suppositories and vaginal creams are the most common topical treatments for thrush. They contain antibacterial ingredients such as metronidazole, chlorhexidine or miconazole. Suppositories and creams should be applied to the vagina once or twice a day for 7-10 days.
• Antibacterial tablets such as metronidazole are effective in severe thrush. They are often given in combination with topical medications for best results.

Probiotic preparations – contain beneficial bacteria that help restore the natural balance of microflora in the vagina. This helps to reduce the number of pathogenic bacteria and prevent the development of recurrence of thrush.

• Probiotic suppositories and vaginal gels contain lactobacilli. They strengthen the natural protective barrier, reduce inflammation and itching.

Topical preparations for itching and inflammation – Increased inflammation and itching in the vagina are symptoms of thrush, which can cause severe discomfort. To relieve these symptoms, you can use special drugs to reduce itching and inflammation.

• Aloe vera cooling preparations are generally good for reducing itching and inflammation in the vagina.
• Gel containing methyluracil creates a protective film on the surface of the mucosa, reduces inflammation and stimulates the natural process of cell regeneration.

How can you treat thrush yourself?

Use of folk remedies

Thrush is an unpleasant disease that often occurs in women. However, it is not always necessary to turn to drugs. There are proven folk methods that will help get rid of thrush.

Garlic . Garlic is an excellent remedy to fight thrush. It not only reduces the number of bacteria in the body, but also strengthens the immune system. To prepare the infusion, use 2-3 cloves of garlic, which must be crushed and pour a glass of boiling water. Let this remedy brew for several hours. Soak a cotton swab in the infusion and insert into the vagina for several hours.

Mint bath . Mint is great for soothing and relieving itching. In order to prepare a mint bath at home, pour 200 grams of dried mint leaves with boiling water and let it brew for 30 minutes. Then pour the finished infusion into the bath and take it for 20-25 minutes.

• Citrus fruits . Citrus fruits are excellent antibacterial agents that can help fight Candida dominance in the body. In order to strengthen the immune system and fight thrush, it is recommended to regularly consume freshly squeezed juice from grapefruits or oranges.
• Tea tree . Tea tree essential oil has powerful antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Add a few drops of this oil to warm water and use this solution to wash away the symptoms of thrush.

Remember that folk remedies cannot replace proper medication and medical advice. If you suffer from thrush, be sure to consult a doctor. Alternative methods of treatment can only be used as maintenance therapy.

How to prevent thrush?

Thrush is a fungal disease caused by Candida. However, there are ways to prevent its occurrence.

• Maintain personal hygiene: Wash your genitals regularly with water and neutral soap. Avoid using harsh soaps, shower gels, or perfumes, as these can upset the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina.
• Dry your vagina: Always dry your vagina thoroughly with a dry, clean cloth after showering or bathing. Moisture and heat are the ideal environment for the development of a fungal infection.
• Avoid briefs made of synthetic materials: Synthetic materials such as nylon can chafe the skin and cause irritation. Wear only underpants made from natural fabrics, such as cotton, which allow the skin to “breathe”.
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: It is important to remove excess sweet, salty, and spicy foods from your diet, which can negatively impact your overall health. Also, exercise regularly and watch your weight, this will help strengthen the immune system and protect you from various infections.

Despite the fact that thrush is a common disease, the main rule is to take care of your own health and the need to take good care of your body. It is easy to prevent the appearance of thrush by following these simple tips.

Does diet affect the appearance of thrush?

Many people wonder if diet affects thrush. While there is no diet that can completely prevent an infection, certain foods can make symptoms worse or increase your risk of developing thrush.

Several studies have shown that taking probiotics can help reduce the risk of thrush. Probiotic foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kefir mushrooms contain live bacteria that can help balance the microflora in the gut and prevent the growth of fungal infections. Also, it is worth making sure that the diet has a sufficient amount of vitamins A, C and E, which help maintain healthy skin and mucous membranes.

• Pins:
• There is no diet that can completely prevent thrush;
• Some foods may worsen symptoms or increase the risk of thrush;
• It is worth increasing the consumption of probiotic products and fermented milk products;
• Pay attention to the level of hygiene and make sure you have vitamins A, C and E in your diet.

When should I see a doctor if I have thrush?

Thrush is a common disease in women that causes unpleasant symptoms. If you suspect thrush, it is best to see a doctor right away. This will help to avoid serious consequences and diseases.

If you have symptoms of thrush again and again, this may be a sign of a chronic illness. Timely contact with a doctor will help prevent this danger.

Finally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should take extra precautions. If you have an odor, itching, or white discharge, then contact your gynecologist.

Remember that timely medical attention is very important. The consequences can be serious, so don’t ignore the signs of thrush.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of thrush?

The main symptoms of thrush are itching and burning in the genital area, profuse white loose discharge with a thick or liquid consistency, separated from the reproductive organs. There may also be swelling, redness, and irritation in the area, as well as pain or discomfort during intercourse or urination.

What are the causes of thrush?

Thrush is usually caused by a fungal infection called Candida albicans, which is usually found in small numbers in the vagina but can multiply rapidly and cause symptoms of thrush. In addition, thrush can be caused by factors such as a decrease in immunity, the use of certain drugs, pregnancy, diabetes, and other diseases such as HIV and others.

How to treat thrush at home?

Treatments for thrush at home include genital hygiene, especially after intercourse, use of prebiotics and probiotics to restore microflora balance, and use of antifungal ointments, creams or suppositories. It is also important to avoid clothing that can cause sweating and trap moisture in the genital area.

What medicines can be taken for thrush?

Antifungal medicines such as fluconazole, ketoconazole, metronidazole, or clotrimazole can be used to treat thrush. Probiotics may also be prescribed to restore the balance of microflora. With the exception of fluconazole, which is taken as a single dose, treatment usually lasts several days to several weeks.

How can thrush be prevented?

To prevent thrush, good genital hygiene should be maintained, especially after intercourse. It is also important to avoid tight, synthetic clothing that traps moisture in the genital area. Increasing immunity, for example, playing sports, a healthy lifestyle, also helps to prevent thrush.

Can I get pregnant with thrush?

Thrush itself is not a barrier to conception, but if symptoms of thrush are present, a woman may have less desire to have sex, which in turn may affect fertility. Also, thrush may be associated with a deterioration in the quality of sperm in men, which can affect the ability to become pregnant.

Thrush in women – symptoms and treatment in St. Petersburg

How the disease develops: causes and pathogenesis

Normally, the mucous membrane of the external genitalia is not sterile. The microflora of the vagina includes friendly microorganisms, including the Candida fungus, which serve as the body’s defense against infection. Under adverse conditions, when the microbiome is disturbed, the fungus spreads rapidly, causing the characteristic symptoms of thrush. In some cases, the underlying tissues and blood vessels are also involved in the pathological process, which carry the fungus throughout the body.

The causes of thrush in women are varied:

• Taking medications – antibacterial drugs, cytostatics, glucocorticosteroids, immunosuppressants.

• Decrease in general immunity against the background of chronic diseases – diabetes mellitus, pyelonephritis, blood diseases, tonsillitis, metabolic disorders.

• Changes in the hormonal background due to pathologies of the female genital area, pregnancy, hypothyroidism, the use of oral contraceptives.

• Stress factors – climate change, nervous tension, physical and emotional overload.

• Errors in matters of personal hygiene – untimely change of pads and tampons, the use of aggressive cleansers (violate the natural pH level of the vagina).

• The presence of injuries of the mucous membrane, provoked by wearing tight underwear, sexual intercourse with a deficiency of natural lubrication.

Often, a decrease in local immunity is caused by malnutrition, hypothermia, vitamin deficiency, and untreated sexually transmitted diseases.

Signs of candidiasis

Vaginal candidiasis is called “thrush” because of the characteristic cheesy discharge that accompanies the spread of fungal colonies. In some cases, the discharge may be absent or change its character depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle.

Another striking sign of candidiasis is itching and burning in the intimate area. Itchy sensations are so unbearable that they significantly worsen the quality of life of a woman. Itching increases in the morning, before menstruation, after hygiene procedures and sexual intercourse.

Other symptoms of thrush:

• burning and pain during urination;

• soreness during intimate contacts;

• pungent sour smell of discharge.

If the disease becomes chronic, relapses of fungal infections of the external genital organs occur more often than four times a year. Recurrent candidiasis has an erased clinical picture, when signs of pathology are present, but weakly expressed.

With complicated thrush, the pathological process is more difficult. Deeper tissues are affected, ulcerations and cracks are observed on the vaginal mucosa.

How candidiasis is diagnosed

The treatment of vaginal candidiasis is preceded by a comprehensive diagnosis. The disease in women can be diagnosed already during the initial gynecological examination. The mucous membrane of the vagina looks edematous and inflamed. The natural pink color of the fabrics changes to bright scarlet. Specific discharges of white or yellowish color with grains resembling cottage cheese are found.

With a complicated fungal infection, vesicles appear on the skin of the external genital organs. These are small blisters filled with a cloudy or clear liquid. They are able to open, exposing the epidermis and provoking the development of erosion.

To confirm the diagnosis, medical laboratory tests are carried out:

• smear microscopy – examination of the microflora of the vagina under a microscope;

• bakposev secretions – allows you to accurately detect the fungus-causative agent;

• PCR and ELISA of genital secretions for the detection of Candida albicans antigens;

• complete blood count – helps to see the inflammatory process.

Diagnosis is complicated if thrush occurs against the background of sexually transmitted diseases – chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis and development of a treatment plan for candidiasis in women is the prerogative of a doctor.

Methods of treatment

It is recommended to contact the clinic at the first signs of thrush – itching and specific discharge. Self-medication can lead to the fact that the symptoms will be masked, and the fungal disease will become recurrent. Dealing with it will be much more difficult, and the likelihood of complications will only increase.

Treatment methods for thrush will include both medications and medications aimed at normalizing the microflora. Doctors mainly focus on antifungal medications containing nystatitis, fluconazole, clotrimazole, nitrofungin, ketoconazole. They disrupt the synthesis of substances contained in the membrane of the fungus, which inhibits the growth of colonies or leads to the complete destruction of the pathogen. Preparations for candidal lesions of the mucous membranes are available in the form of tablets, capsules, suppositories, ointments and creams. The drug is selected individually, taking into account the clinical picture.

The program of complex treatment of candidiasis also includes:

It is important to eliminate the cause of the pathology in order to prevent the occurrence of relapses. Funds may be required to improve hormonal levels, fight dysbacteriosis and sexually transmitted diseases.

It is recommended to adjust the diet – reduce the consumption of sweets and carbohydrates. They serve as a breeding ground for the active development of the fungus and slow down recovery.

Of the physiotherapeutic methods for the treatment of thrush, darsonvalization, laser therapy, electrophoresis, and magnetotherapy contribute. During therapy and after it, it is necessary to adhere to the basic principles for the prevention of microflora disorders:

• abandon tight synthetic underwear in favor of comfortable cotton;

• timely treat common diseases – hormonal, inflammatory, infectious;

• change tampons and pads more often during menstruation;

• refuse “daily”;

• do not take antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription;

• use special means for intimate hygiene;

• when carrying out antibacterial therapy, in parallel, use means to restore normal microflora.