What are the common symptoms of male yeast infections. How can you identify Candida balanitis. What are the most effective treatments for penile candidiasis. How can men prevent recurrent yeast infections in the groin area.

Understanding Candidiasis: The Fungal Infection That Affects Men

Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by various species of Candida yeast. While Candida albicans is the most common culprit, there are over 160 species of Candida, with approximately 20 known to cause infections in humans. These yeasts naturally inhabit the skin, mouth, genital organs, and gastrointestinal tract of up to 80% of the population without causing harm. However, when the body’s natural balance is disrupted, Candida can overgrow and lead to infection.

What causes Candida overgrowth in men?

Several factors can contribute to Candida overgrowth in men:

• Weakened immune system
• Changes in skin bacterial flora
• Prolonged antibiotic use
• Poor hygiene
• Underlying health conditions like diabetes

When these factors come into play, the normally harmless Candida can proliferate unchecked, potentially leading to infection of the skin, genitals, and other areas of the body.

Candida Balanitis: A Common Male Yeast Infection

Candida balanitis, also known as yeast infection of the penis, is a common form of male candidiasis. It primarily affects the glans (head) of the penis and, in uncircumcised men, can also involve the foreskin (a condition called balanoposthitis). Candida balanitis accounts for 25-50% of all balanitis cases, making it the most prevalent penile infection in men.

Is Candida balanitis as common as vaginal yeast infections?

While Candida balanitis is the most common penile infection, it occurs about ten times less frequently than vaginal yeast infections in women. This difference in prevalence is attributed to various factors, including the anatomical differences between male and female genitalia and the unique environment of the vagina that can be more conducive to yeast overgrowth.

Transmission and Risk Factors for Male Yeast Infections

Understanding how men contract yeast infections is crucial for prevention and treatment. The primary mode of transmission in adult men is through unprotected sexual activity with a partner who has a vaginal yeast infection. However, it’s important to note that not all cases of male urogenital candidiasis stem from sexual contact.

Can men get yeast infections without sexual contact?

Yes, men can develop yeast infections without sexual contact. Factors that can contribute to non-sexually transmitted yeast infections in men include:

• Poor hygiene practices
• Prolonged antibiotic use
• Weakened immune system
• Skin conditions that create a favorable environment for yeast growth

In fact, even babies and children can experience fungal balanitis, often related to diaper dermatitis or improper cleaning practices.

Key Risk Factors for Developing Candida Balanitis

Several factors increase a man’s risk of developing Candida balanitis:

1. Poor genital hygiene, especially in uncircumcised men
2. Use of immunosuppressive drugs or glucocorticoids
3. Diabetes mellitus
4. Sexual contact with an infected partner
5. Prolonged antibiotic use
6. Uncircumcised penis (due to the warm, moist environment under the foreskin)

Understanding these risk factors can help men take preventive measures and seek timely treatment when necessary.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Male Yeast Infections

Identifying the symptoms of a male yeast infection is crucial for early treatment and prevention of complications. Common symptoms of Candida balanitis include:

• Redness and inflammation of the glans penis
• Itching or burning sensation in the affected area
• White, cottage cheese-like discharge under the foreskin
• Unpleasant odor
• Difficulty retracting the foreskin
• Pain or discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse

How quickly do symptoms of male yeast infections appear?

The onset of symptoms can vary from person to person. Some men may notice signs within a day or two of exposure, while others might not experience symptoms for several days or even weeks. The speed of symptom onset often depends on factors such as the individual’s immune system, the extent of Candida overgrowth, and any underlying health conditions.

Diagnosing Male Yeast Infections: What to Expect

Accurate diagnosis of male yeast infections is essential for proper treatment. Healthcare providers typically use a combination of methods to diagnose Candida balanitis:

1. Physical examination: The doctor will visually inspect the affected area for characteristic signs of yeast infection.
2. Medical history: Information about symptoms, sexual activity, and risk factors helps in diagnosis.
3. Swab test: A sample from the affected area is collected and examined under a microscope or cultured to identify the presence of Candida.
4. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) test: This quick test can detect fungal elements in skin scrapings.

Can male yeast infections be mistaken for other conditions?

Yes, male yeast infections can sometimes be confused with other conditions such as bacterial infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or dermatological issues. This is why professional diagnosis is crucial. Conditions that may present similar symptoms include:

• Bacterial balanitis
• Genital herpes
• Psoriasis
• Lichen planus
• Contact dermatitis

A healthcare provider can differentiate between these conditions and provide appropriate treatment.

Effective Treatment Options for Male Yeast Infections

Treatment for male yeast infections typically involves antifungal medications. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and individual factors. Common treatment options include:

1. Topical antifungal creams or ointments (e.g., clotrimazole, miconazole)
2. Oral antifungal medications (e.g., fluconazole) for more severe or recurrent infections
3. Improved hygiene practices
4. Treatment of sexual partners to prevent reinfection

How long does it take to cure a male yeast infection?

The duration of treatment can vary, but most uncomplicated cases of Candida balanitis respond to topical antifungal treatments within 1-2 weeks. Oral medications may work more quickly, often clearing the infection within a week. However, it’s important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence.

Preventing Recurrent Male Yeast Infections: Practical Tips

Preventing recurrent yeast infections is an important aspect of male genital health. Here are some practical tips to reduce the risk of Candida balanitis:

• Practice good genital hygiene, including thorough cleaning and drying of the penis
• Wear breathable underwear made from natural fibers
• Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture in the genital area
• Use condoms during sexual activity, especially if your partner has a yeast infection
• Manage underlying health conditions like diabetes effectively
• Limit the use of antibiotics to when they are absolutely necessary
• Consider probiotic supplements to maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms

Can dietary changes help prevent male yeast infections?

While the direct link between diet and male yeast infections is not as well-established as it is for women, some dietary changes may help support overall health and potentially reduce the risk of recurrent infections:

• Reduce sugar intake, as Candida thrives on sugar
• Incorporate probiotic-rich foods into your diet
• Consume foods with natural antifungal properties, such as garlic and coconut oil
• Stay hydrated to support overall immune function

It’s important to note that while these dietary changes may be beneficial, they should not replace medical treatment for active infections.

Understanding male yeast infections, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for maintaining genital health. By recognizing the signs early and seeking prompt medical attention, men can effectively manage and prevent Candida balanitis. Remember, while yeast infections are common and generally not serious, they can cause discomfort and lead to complications if left untreated. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of genital infections.

Male Yeast Infection: Symptoms, Pictures & Treatment

What is Candidiasis?

Candidiasis is an infection caused by a yeast called Candida. There are over 160 species of Candida, but only 20 of them cause disease in humans. Candida albicans is the most common.

The yeast Candida can naturally be found on the skin, in the mouth, on genital organs, or within the gastrointestinal tract of up to 80% of the population.

Under normal circumstances, the mere presence of Candida in our bodies does not pose any danger. Our immune system effectively controls the population of this fungus, allowing it to exist only in small amounts.

Problems with the Candida fungus arise when our immune system weakens or when there is a sudden change in the natural flora of bacteria on our skin, such as in cases of prolonged antibiotic use. These changes make our bodies more prone to Candida proliferation. The yeast begins to reproduce without limitations, potentially infesting the skin and invading deeper tissues, causing an intense inflammatory reaction.

Candidiasis is the term used to describe the infection caused by Candida. Having Candida on the skin asymptomatically is different from having the disease candidiasis. Colonization is not synonymous with infection.

Candidiasis has the potential to impact a variety of organs, most commonly affecting the skin, genitals, and mouth. In more extreme instances, typically involving patients who suffer from significant immunosuppression, Candida can invade internal organs like the esophagus, larynx, kidneys, heart, and even the central nervous system.

This article will discuss only thrush in men (yeast infection on the penis), which manifests as an infection of the glans or foreskin, referred to as balanitis or balanoposthitis, respectively.

What is Candida Balanitis or Balanoposthitis?

Balanitis and balanoposthitis are terms often treated as synonyms. However, there is a slight difference.

Balanitis is the name given to any inflammation of the glans, popularly known as the head of the penis. When the foreskin, the skin covering the glans, is also inflamed, the condition is known as balanoposthitis.

In uncircumcised men, inflammation of the glans is almost always accompanied by inflammation of the foreskin. In circumcised men, the absence of the foreskin means that only balanitis is possible.

From this point forward, to simplify the explanation, I will use only the term balanitis, as it encompasses both circumcised and uncircumcised men.

Candida balanitis is the most common penile infection, accounting for 25 to 50% of balanitis cases. Despite being the most common cause of penile infection, Candida balanitis is about ten times less common than vaginal infection caused by Candida.

The fundamental prerequisite for the development of Candida balanitis is the colonization of the penis by Candida. It is estimated that around 20 to 25% of men experience yeast colonization on their penises. However, not all of them will develop an infection; in fact, nearly two-thirds continue to be asymptomatic carriers throughout their lives.

How do Men Get Yeast Infections?

In adult men, the primary source of yeast colonization is unprotected sexual activity. If a woman’s vagina has large populations of Candida, during intercourse, a significant amount of the fungus can be transferred to the penis, increasing the risk of balanitis.

However, not all cases of male urogenital candidiasis originate from sexual activity. Babies and children can also experience fungal balanitis. In pediatric patients, acquiring Candida albicans is related to skin cleansing conditions and is often associated with diaper dermatitis. Moreover, Candida infection frequently correlates with antibiotic use (antibiotics reduce the population of skin bacteria, which are germs that compete for nutrients with fungi).

Risk Factors for Candida Balanitis

The development of penile candidiasis in colonized patients depends on the immune system’s ability to handle the large population of fungi living on the skin. Therefore, the mere presence of Candida in the genitals is insufficient; the fungus must have the freedom to multiply.

Balanitis has a wide variety of causes, but most cases are related to inadequate hygiene in uncircumcised men. When the foreskin is not routinely retracted, and the glans is not properly cleaned, there can be a buildup of sweat, debris, and dead skin, creating an environment highly favorable to fungal proliferation and inflammation.

Unsurprisingly, the risk of Candida balanitis is lower in circumcised men (Suggested reading: Circumcision: Risks, Benefits and Postoperative Care).

In addition to poor penis hygiene, other factors increase the risk of penile candidiasis, including:

• Use of glucocorticoids or other immunosuppressive drugs.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Sexual partners with multiple episodes of vaginal candidiasis.
• Diaper use (in children or elderly).
• Recent antibiotic use.
• Immunosuppressive diseases, such as HIV.
• Chemotherapy.
• Malnutrition.
• Obesity.
• Illicit drug use.
• Edematous states (congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or nephrotic syndrome).

Symptoms

Candida infection in the penis typically presents as balanitis or balanoposthitis. The most common symptoms of male candidiasis include redness, swelling, itching, and pain in the glans. Additionally, white patches similar to those in oral candidiasis may appear on the penis.

These lesions can cause itching and often a burning sensation following sexual intercourse. The emergence of small blisters, ulcers, sores, skin peeling, or purulent discharge from the urethra is also frequent.

Candida Balanitis

In uncircumcised patients, a thick and foul-smelling discharge may be present under the foreskin.

In summary, the symptoms of male candidiasis are:

• Burning and itching around the penis head, worsening after intercourse.
• Redness and swelling of the glans.
• Small reddish papules on the glans.
• Pain during urination.
• White patches around the glans.
• Thick, irregular discharge under the foreskin.
• Unpleasant odor in the foreskin.
• Difficulty retracting the foreskin.

Untreated Candida balanitis and balanoposthitis can lead to complications like phimosis or paraphimosis due to scarring, which makes the foreskin tighter and less retractable.

A diagnosis of candidiasis can be confirmed by scraping a small sample from the lesion and examining it under a microscope to identify Candida yeast.

Treatment 

Antifungal creams or ointments can be used to treat candidiasis in men. The most effective treatment options for penile candidiasis include:

• Clotrimazole cream 1%, applied twice daily for 1 to 3 weeks
• Miconazole cream 2%, applied twice daily for 1 to 3 weeks
• Miconazole and hydrocortisone cream 1%, applied twice daily for 2 to 5 weeks
• Nystatin cream 100,000 IU/g, applied once or twice daily for 1 to 3 weeks

A simpler option is a single dose of oral fluconazole 150 mg.

For more severe cases, the best options are miconazole + hydrocortisone 1% cream or a fluconazole tablet.

In some instances, penile candidiasis may be an early symptom of developing diabetes mellitus. If a patient has no apparent risk factors for candidiasis, they should undergo a blood glucose evaluation.

Female sexual partners of men with Candida balanitis should be tested for candidiasis or may opt for empirical treatment to reduce the likelihood of reinfection.

If a patient experiences recurrent balanitis, circumcision may be considered as an option to reduce episodes.

Consuming yogurt containing lactobacillus may help decrease Candida colonization. Although no specific studies exist for lactobacillus in treating or preventing Candida balanitis, research showing a decrease in Candida colonization in the rectum and vagina provides a theoretical basis for its usefulness. While it may not work, it is unlikely to cause harm.

Alternative therapies with phytogenic agents, such as garlic, calendula, apple cider vinegar or chamomile sitz baths, pennyroyal tea, oregano oil, or goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), lack reliable data demonstrating their efficacy.

Frequently Asked Question

How long does it take for male candidiasis to clear up?

With appropriate treatment, patients generally experience significant symptom improvement within about seven days.

Can penile candidiasis improve on its own without treatment?

In milder cases, it can improve on its own. However, without treatment, recurrence is quite common.

Can candidiasis return after treatment?

Yes, approximately 10% of patients experience recurrent penile candidiasis despite receiving appropriate treatment.

What home remedies are effective for treating candidiasis in men?

No home remedies have been proven effective in controlled clinical studies.

Can Candida balanitis be transmitted to women?

Candida can be sexually transmitted. However, whether a woman subsequently develops Candida vaginitis depends on specific factors for each patient.

Should a man’s sexual partner be treated if he develops Candida balanitis?

While not mandatory, treating the partner can help prevent infection in women and reduce the likelihood of recurrences in men.

Can natural yogurt treat candidiasis in men?

Yogurt containing lactobacillus may help reduce Candida colonization. Still, it is unlikely sufficient for curing an infection on its own.

What is the best cream for penile candidiasis?

The most suitable creams for penile candidiasis are clotrimazole 1% or miconazole 2%. Another option is nystatin 100,000 IU/g.

What should be done if the cream does not resolve the issue?

If topical treatment is ineffective, a single 150 mg fluconazole tablet should be taken as an alternative treatment option.

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References

• Balanitis in adults – UpToDate.
• Balanitis and balanoposthitis in children and adolescents: Clinical manifestations, evaluation, and diagnosis – UpToDate.
• Yeast infection in men: How can I tell if I have one? – Mayo Clinic.
• Genital colonisation and infection with candida in heterosexual and homosexual males – Genitourinary medicine.
• Candida balanitis: risk factors – Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.
• Mycotic infections of the penis – Andrologia.
• Balanoposthitis – Medscape.
• Candida Infections of the Genitourinary Tract – Clinical microbiology reviews.

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Pedro Pinheiro holds a medical degree from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) and is a specialist in Internal Medicine and Nephrology, certified by the State University of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ) and the Brazilian Society of Nephrology (SBN). He is currently based in Lisbon, Portugal, with his credentials recognized by the University of Porto and the Portuguese Nephrology Specialty College.

What Is Jock Itch? – Skin Rash Around The Groin

What is jock itch?

Jock itch is a contagious fungal skin infection. It is caused by a fungus commonly found in gyms and locker rooms. Jock itch mostly affects males, although it is possible for females to get it, too. Jock itch appears as a skin rash around the groin, but can appear on your upper thigh, scrotum, penis, and anus. It is not serious. However, the itching can be extremely uncomfortable, even painful.

Symptoms of jock itch

Jock itch rash appears red, purple, gray, tan, or white. It is usually raised and scaly around the edges. The rash itches. Like a blister, the rash can ooze fluid. The center of the rash is reddish-brown.

What causes jock itch?

Jock itch is caused by exposure to the fungus. This can happen through direct skin-to-skin contact. In some cases, it happens if you have athlete’s foot (another fungal infection) when you have touched your feet and then your groin area. It also can be spread through infected clothing. The jock itch fungus grows in moist conditions, such as steamy public shower facilities and locker rooms, and in damp towels and clothing.

How is jock itch diagnosed?

Your doctor can usually tell whether the rash is jock itch by the way it looks. They also will ask you questions about your exposure to places where the rash is spread. If your doctor is uncertain, they may scrape a sample of the rash off your body to send to the lab.

Can jock itch be prevented or avoided?

The best way to avoid or prevent jock itch is to carefully dry off and wear clean, dry clothes after using a public shower facility or locker room. Don’t share towels with others. Be sure to wash your clothing and towel after each exposure. Don’t leave sweaty or damp clothing stuffed into a bag. That is the perfect environment for a fungus to grow. If you have athlete’s foot, put your socks on first and wash your hands before putting on your underwear and clothing.

If you have jock itch, wash your clothes in hot, soapy water after each wear.

Jock itch treatment

There are several things you can do on your own to treat jock itch

• Wash the rash with soap and water.
• Pat the area dry (allow plenty of time for it to dry).
• Apply an over-the-counter antifungal cream or powder to the rash in the morning and at night.
• Follow the directions on the cream packaging.
• Wear clean underwear each time you apply the cream.

Living with jock itch

Once you’ve had jock itch, you should take preventive actions to avoid it in the future. Remember to dry off completely and wear clean, dry clothes after spending time at a public shower facility or locker room. Wash and dry your workout clothes in hot, soapy water after each use.

Questions to ask your doctor

• Is athlete’s foot the same infection that causes jock itch?
• Is jock itch the same thing as ringworm?
• Can jock itch spread to other parts of my body?
• Will I need an antibiotic if the blisters break open?
• Should I avoid sexual intercourse with a partner if I have jock itch?

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Ringworm

National institutes of Health, MedlinePlus: Tinea Infections

Copyright © American Academy of Family Physicians

This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.

Rashes in the groin in children: diagnosis, treatment, prevention

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Eruption in the groin in children is a common occurrence. Almost always, the main reason for the appearance of formations is the regular wearing of a diaper that does not breathe well, therefore, if the child is at home, it is better to wear a diaper as little and as little as possible, in advanced cases, the inguinal rash turns into frequent small purulent acne.

Weak children’s immunity cannot resist all the harmful fungi and viruses that can get on the baby’s skin. Therefore, rashes often bother young children, and if your baby has a rash, a dermatologist will help you solve the problem.

You can sign up for a consultation with a dermatologist with our consultants by phone +7 (495) 125-49-50

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Causes of rashes in the groin in children

Eruption in the groin in children most parents write off an allergy to an unfamiliar food or irritation from a new detergent. Few people think that the constant presence of a child in a diaper is to blame. Due to the appearance of diaper rash on the body of the baby, harmful bacteria begin to multiply.

Also common is prickly heat, which is similar to the case described above, but occurs due to overheating. The sweat glands of children work rather unstable, which leads to clogging of the epidermis, the skin ceases to receive enough air, and therefore prickly heat appears.

It is not uncommon for a child to develop candidiasis. The pathogen that causes the disease is found in the stool. Candida bacteria spreads through the skin and mucous membranes of the baby, which provokes the appearance of a rash.

A fragile body can be undermined by other internal problems that will serve as the starting impetus for a rash:

• chronic or congenital pathologies;
• intestinal dysbacteriosis;
• previous flu or other severe viral illness;
• disruption of the hormonal glands;
• taking strong antibiotics.

A baby can also get candidiasis from his mother. The pathogen passes during feeding or regular contact, without personal hygiene.

Symptoms of diseases

Distinguishing candidiasis from prickly heat or dermatitis is very simple for a number of symptoms:

• all intense red lesions with well-defined borders;
• inside the vesicles – pus;
• rash in the groin area merges into extensive lesions and spots;
• you can see a grayish or white coating on the formations;
• swollen genitals;
• urination is accompanied by pain.

This is very different from the usual redness or small pink spots in the case of prickly heat, which quickly pass and do not cause discomfort to the baby.

In the case of candidiasis, it is necessary to start treating the baby before the bubbles burst, because then the thrush will penetrate deep into the skin. The child will become restless due to itching and burning of the skin, and if treatment is started, the boys will eventually develop balanoposthitis. Rashes in the groin in children can be prevented, and if not, then it is necessary to treat quickly.

Prevention and treatment of irritations

Groin rash – this is a reason to think about bathing procedures: start regularly washing the affected area using medicinal infusions, such as chamomile or celandine. Do not forget that the baby needs to blot the folds on the body with a soft and dry cloth. After water procedures, it will not be superfluous to let the child be naked, this will not only help in the prevention of prickly heat and diaper rash, but also temper his immunity.

When using cloth or cotton diapers, be sure to use powder. The skin of babies is very delicate, to the extent that sometimes the powder collects in the diaper and rubs in the groin, leading to irritation, pay attention to this. If your baby has an allergic rash, then you need to wear diapers only at night, and only after treating the baby’s skin.

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to establish the cause of the rash in the baby, contact the specialists, they do not
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Thrush – treatment in Moscow

If the disease is ignored and treated incorrectly, it can become chronic and become very dangerous for your health. Only a doctor can identify and diagnose candidiasis, as well as help you get rid of it. Therefore, if you are overtaken by this problem, women should seek help from a gynecologist, and men from a urologist. The A-medic clinic employs two highly qualified gynecologists who conduct a comprehensive examination of the body, treat and prevent women’s diseases. What is thrush, how to deal with it and is it possible to forget about it forever, you can find out the answers to these questions from this article.

What is thrush?

Many beautiful ladies are accustomed to keep silent about their intimate problems, solving them on their own, and after all, her health in general and the possibility of having children in the future depend on the state of the reproductive system of a woman. According to statistics, every second girl had thrush. This disease is caused by the Candida fungus, which is present in the body of most healthy people. When exposed to adverse factors (decreased immunity, malnutrition, hormonal disorders, etc.), the fungus begins to multiply and affects the mucous membrane of the organs of the reproductive system and causes a number of unpleasant symptoms (itching, burning, inflammation). Not only women suffer from vaginal candidiasis, this problem can occur in men and even in children. Most often, babies become infected from the mother, they have a white coating on the oral mucosa – on the gums, tongue and cheeks.

In the people, this infectious disease is called thrush, and it got its name due to the characteristic secretions of a curdled consistency. The fungus candida actively spreads in humid and warm places, such parts of the body are the vagina, groin and oral cavity. Sometimes a woman may not even know about the occurrence of candidiasis, because. its symptoms can be either very pronounced or absent altogether. That is why it is necessary to undergo a regular examination by a gynecologist, a specialist will always determine the presence of an infection and will be able to start its treatment in a timely manner.

Causes of candidiasis.

As mentioned earlier, the main reason for the appearance of thrush is the reproduction of yeast-like Candida fungi, i.e. to understand why such a disease occurs at all, it is necessary to identify those factors that increase the risk of developing candidiasis:

Long-term use of antibacterial agents.

Antibiotics inhibit the growth of not only pathogenic bacteria, but also useful lactobacilli in the vagina; if they are deficient, the candida fungus begins to multiply actively.

Hormonal disorders.

After a girl becomes pregnant, the risk of spreading the Candida fungus increases several times. Such changes are associated with the restructuring of the hormonal background in the expectant mother.

Wrong diet.

The abuse of sweet, too salty and smoked foods, as well as flour products, leads to problems with the gastrointestinal tract, which contributes to the development of dysbacteriosis and, as a result, candidiasis. An unbalanced diet is one of the concomitant factors in the occurrence of thrush, therefore, in addition to drug treatment, gynecologists prescribe patients a special diet.

Herpes.

The herpes virus lives in the body of almost every second person, at normal times it does not manifest itself in any way, but with a decrease in immunity it activates, and thrush may appear after it.

Wearing tight synthetic underwear.

Many beautiful ladies do not think about their intimate health at all when they purchase underwear made of synthetic fabrics, it would seem how it can affect the development of candidiasis. The fact is that synthetics do not allow air to pass through, i.e. prolonged wearing of such clothes contributes to a change in the microclimate in the vagina, the occurrence of high humidity, which is a favorable microflora for the spread of candida fungi.

Infection from a sexual partner.

If your partner has thrush, Candida can easily be passed on to you through unprotected intercourse.

Stress.

Constant overwork and being in stressful situations weaken your body, making it unprotected. Various pathogenic bacteria begin to actively develop, which is why your condition worsens. Get more rest and relaxation.

Important! A woman should have regular check-ups with a gynecologist. If you have a strange discharge (too plentiful, unpleasantly smelling, or their color has changed), you should immediately consult a doctor. This symptom may indicate both the occurrence of vaginal candidiasis, and be a symptom of another female disease.

Thrush symptoms.

The main symptom of thrush is curdled discharge, thanks to which this disease has received such an unusual name. Each woman can detect the first signs of candidiasis, if this problem occurs for the first time or recurs, she has the following unpleasant symptoms:

Itching and burning in the genital area.

This is the first wake-up call that signals us about the approaching danger. Sometimes the itching is so unbearable that a woman cannot even sit still. Because of it, redness of the mucous membranes of the vulva and vagina may also appear, which is sometimes impossible to notice on your own. In this case, you should not self-medicate and try to get rid of an unbearable symptom with the help of various pharmaceutical products, immediately make an appointment with a gynecologist and take all the necessary tests.

Pain during intercourse.

Until the moment of recovery, it is recommended to give up sexual activity, this solution will help relieve you of discomfort, and protect your partner from candida fungi.

White discharge accompanied by an unpleasant odor.

This symptom greatly affects the quality of life of a woman, bringing her a lot of problems. Curdled discharge is noticeable on dark linen, and besides, they have a specific smell.

Pain when urinating.

If the infection spreads to the genitourinary system, then another unpleasant surprise awaits the patient, the woman may feel that her bladder is full, and if urine gets on the irritated vaginal mucosa, there is an acute burning sensation.

It is possible to make sure that you have vaginal candidiasis or to identify another disease only with the help of a specialist. To make a diagnosis, the doctor will definitely prescribe a smear test for you. You can go through all the necessary diagnostic measures at the A-medic clinic, and after receiving the results of the examination, consult with an experienced gynecologist.

With the development of the disease, these symptoms may intensify or, on the contrary, become almost invisible. In any case, the use of folk remedies and self-medication cannot lead to a complete recovery.

Diagnosis of candidiasis.

Confirmation that you have thrush can only be obtained from a specialist. Some signs of vaginal candidiasis can be confused with symptoms of other infectious diseases. Therefore, to make an accurate diagnosis, the gynecologist uses the following diagnostic methods:

Poll.

At the appointment, the gynecologist will first of all ask you a few questions, some of which may be of an intimate nature. Do not be shy, honestly and accurately tell the doctor about your problems, reliable information will help him get a complete clinical picture. The specialist may ask:

• What exactly worries you, what symptoms appear most acutely.
• How has your discharge changed, what color is it, is there an unpleasant smell?
• Have you recently changed sexual partners? Are you protected?
• Have you ever had a sexually transmitted disease?
• Have you taken any medications recently, and if so, which ones?
• Do you have any chronic diseases?
• Is your menstrual cycle normal? Do the symptoms of the disease increase before the onset of menstruation?

Having received all the necessary information, the gynecologist will continue the examination.

Examination.

After the interview, the doctor will invite you to sit on the gynecological chair and proceed to a visual examination. To confirm the diagnosis of thrush in gynecology, several methods are used:

Smear microscopy.

Allows you to accurately determine the number and prevalence of candida fungi.

Culture study.

This method is more informative than microscopy. To obtain data when taking a smear, the doctor takes biological material and places it in a favorable environment in which bacteria begin to actively multiply. After that, the specialist can accurately identify these microorganisms and determine the sensitivity to antibiotics of the leading pathogen.

Test for genital infections.

If a girl has unpleasant symptoms after unprotected intercourse, then first of all she is prescribed an examination for the presence of sexual infections. Such diseases can provoke the development of candidiasis, so the patient must undergo a comprehensive diagnosis.

Tests for the detection of hormonal disorders.

Chronic thrush can be a precursor to diabetes, so a woman should definitely take a blood test for glucose levels.

Rapid test for thrush.

We have compiled a test for you, consisting of several questions, the answers to which will help you determine if you have candidiasis. This questionnaire allows you to conduct a small diagnosis of your health. The result obtained should not be regarded as a 100% diagnosis, in any case, you should seek the advice of a gynecologist.

• Your discharge has recently been unusual: it has become whiter, smells specific and unpleasant symptoms disappear even after hygiene procedures.

– Yes;

– No;

• Do you feel discomfort and pain during intercourse.

– Yes, during intercourse I feel discomfort;

– No, there are no problems in my sex life;

• How often do you change sexual partners?

– Yes;

– No;

• Recently, you have been experiencing itching in the groin or genital area. In the evening and during menstruation, it intensifies.

– Yes, there is an unbearable itch;

– No, there is no itching;

• Are these symptoms disturbing your sleep?

– Yes, they increase at night and can interfere with my sleep;

– No, I’m fine with sleep;

• Is the mucous membrane in the genital area irritated?

– Yes, there is redness;

– No visible signs of skin irritation;

• Is urination painful?

– Yes, I have discomfort when going to the toilet;

– No problem;

• Have you ever been diagnosed with candidiasis?

– Yes, I have repeatedly sought the help of a gynecologist;

– No, never had such symptoms;

• Do you often suffer from colds and viral diseases?

– Yes, once every few months, I have a very weak immune system;

– No, in very rare cases.

For each “yes” answer 1 point is counted, for “no” 0 points. If, when calculating the results, you got a total score of more than 5, then there is a suspicion of the presence of thrush. You should immediately make an appointment with a gynecologist if:

• Thrush reappears more than 2-3 times a year.
• As the disease progresses, your condition deteriorates rapidly, your temperature rises, and you feel unwell.
• Prescribed drugs do not eliminate unpleasant symptoms for more than a week, even if these drugs only increase irritation.
• After a treatment course, thrush reappears after a while.

Treatment of thrush.

One of the most common questions that anxious women ask when they find thrush is: is it possible to get rid of it in the shortest possible time and at the same time forever? We will try to answer this important question, starting from the very beginning. After the diagnosis is made and the cause of the development of Candida fungi is determined, the doctor proceeds to draw up a treatment plan. If the patient asked for help at the stage of the development of the disease, then most likely she will be prescribed only drug therapy. In the case when vaginal candidiasis is severe, then the woman is prescribed antimycotic agents.

There are many antifungal medications that your doctor can determine which are right for you. The use of unsuitable ointments, suppositories and medicines can harm you, so do not self-medicate.

In addition to taking pills and other pharmaceutical products, the patient is obliged to observe regular hygiene, wash herself and temporarily abandon panty liners. It is also good to change synthetic underwear for a more natural one, for example, made of cotton material. At the onset of menstruation, you should choose unscented pads and change them very often so that the “bath” effect is not created. It is also recommended to abandon tampons, of course, until the moment of recovery.

As for nutrition, here you will also have to make some changes and adjust your diet. You should limit your intake of the following foods:

• High in sugar.
• Flour products, bread, pasta.
• Various sauces and dressings.
• Foods that are too spicy, smoked or salty.

In addition to the main treatment, you can add alternative methods, but the main thing to remember is that they should only be used in combination. Some home remedies for thrush have a positive effect, these recipes can be found on many forums on the Internet. Let’s consider them in more detail:

• Baking soda has an excellent effect on Candida fungi, suppresses their reproduction and fights them. To prepare a useful solution, mix 1 liter of boiled water and 1 tbsp. l. soda. and wash it twice a day.
• Another effective remedy is a decoction of sage, chamomile and oak bark herbs, they have a calming effect on irritated vaginal mucosa and improve its microflora. It takes approx. 10-20 grams of each herb and brew this mixture in hot boiled water. Douche daily with this solution.

Should your sexual partner be treated if you have candidiasis? – Drugs can be prescribed to a man if he has the appropriate symptoms: itching and burning in the genital area, whitish discharge.

Prevention of thrush in a woman.

Preventive measures to prevent the development of thrush are aimed at reducing the number of Candida fungi and preventing their reproduction. These recommendations will be useful to those women who have recently had this disease, are expecting a baby, who have weakened immunity and have hormonal disorders. What should be done first? If you have sexual intercourse with a partner who has thrush, until he recovers, you must stop intimate contact with him.