Can a Yeast Infection Cause Abdominal Pain and Bloating?

Yeast infections can cause a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms, including bloating and pain in your abdomen. It seems strange to get symptoms in an area of your body where the infection isn’t located, but it’s not that improbable. Our bodies are more connected than we realize, and in this article, we will explain how the different parts of your body can be linked together. It is possible to develop a yeast infection in your gut. So, can a yeast infection cause abdominal pain and bloating? The answer depends on the circumstances and location of the infection. 

What is a Yeast Infection?

Yeast infections come from Candida overgrowth, a fungus that exists on our skin and around our body and normally doesn’t cause issues. They can appear in your gut, digestive system, mouth, skin, and the vulva and vagina. Most women will experience a vaginal yeast infection at some point, but no worries, they’re easy to treat.  

Having yeast in our bodies is an important part of our body microbiome as some amounts of Candida promote good gut health and help with the absorption of nutrients. It’s a good bacteria in moderation, but as yeast infections appear, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. 

What Causes a Yeast Infection?

Yeast overgrowth is the cause of yeast infections, and they can develop as a result of a few different things. They can occur if your skin gets damaged or if you have a weakened immune system. Yeast also thrives in humid conditions, so they are more common during summertime. Taking antibiotics can also cause yeast to flourish and overgrow because antibiotics kill the good bacteria in your body that keeps the yeast levels in check. 

While a yeast infection isn’t classified as an STD, people who have sex more frequently might be more likely to develop an infection. When unfamiliar bacteria enter the body, it can be enough to trigger a yeast infection.

Symptoms of a Yeast Infection

Depending on the location of the infection, the signs could be slightly different. However, a visit to the doctor can always confirm with a quick physical exam if you’re unsure. If you think you have a yeast infection, look for these common symptoms: 

• Painful rash
• Yellow or white vaginal discharge
• Redness
• Itchiness
• Burning sensation
• Swelling
• White patches on the tongue or inside of the cheeks
• Patches that ooze clear fluid

Yeast in the Gut

If you’ve been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or a similar condition, you could experience inflammation in your gut. As a result of the increased levels of inflammation, it is possible to develop candida overgrowth in your gut. The symptoms will be different from typical yeast infections. Examples of these symptoms include:

• Excessive gas
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Bloating
• Losing weight unintentionally
• Blood in stool

Abdominal Pain and Bloating

These symptoms aren’t common unless there’s an overgrowth of Candida (or yeast) in your gut. So to answer the question, “Can a yeast infection cause abdominal pain and bloating,” the answer is a “yes” when it’s an internal yeast infection. The fungus growing in your digestive system might lead to a backup of gas and put a lot of pressure on your body, leading to further issues. This includes leaky gut syndrome or constipation, which can add to your abdominal pain. 

With bloating, the more you consume food and fluids throughout the day, the more the yeast in your gut is fermenting, which produces more gas than normal. When you combine the fungus overgrowth preventing gas from being expelled with producing more gas than usual, it can lead to an uncomfortable amount of abdominal bloating. 

Treating a Yeast Infection with Village

If you suspect you have a yeast infection, we advise you to visit a medical professional as soon as possible. Just like with anything else—the sooner it is treated, the better. Getting treatment from a physician can stop the infection from spreading and ease your symptoms. You might be prescribed an antifungal medication or a single-dose medication to help control the overgrowth of yeast in your body. 

At Village Emergency Centers, we are here to help anytime, day or night. A yeast infection, whether it’s in your gut or another part of your body, can be uncomfortable, and our board-certified physicians can get you treated in minutes instead of hours to help ease your symptoms. Find your nearest Village location on our website. 

Can a Yeast Infection Cause Abdominal Pain and Bloating

What is Abdominal Pain/Bloating?

Abdominal bloating happens when there’s too much gas filling the abdomen. As a result, the air builds up, pushing through the stomach and making it look swollen. This also makes the area more sensitive and more problematic to the touch. Even with slight pressure or sitting down, the abdomen becomes even more distended, causing pain and discomfort. Can a yeast infection cause abdominal pain and bloating?

Can a Yeast Infection Cause Abdominal Pain and Bloating?

Although it sounds unlikely, abdominal discomfort is one of the symptoms of vaginal candidiasis. Candida overgrowth is a vaginal yeast infection that leads to gut symptoms. These include bloating after meals, constipation, and excessive gas. In addition, candida overgrowth can lead to vaginal infection symptoms, cognitive impairment, and constant fatigue if left untreated.

The gut symptoms tend to last for years, with the patient relying heavily on antacids. The antacids can provide temporary relief, fooling patients into thinking it’s a simple case of indigestion and acid reflux. However, because the candida overgrowth remains untreated, the symptoms continue to appear and become more challenging to manage.

Does Yeast Overgrowth Cause Stomach Pain and Bloating?

There are several possible reasons for bloating and stomach pain. While yeast infections are possible, it often takes some time before a guaranteed diagnosis is made. This is because gastroenteritis is more likely to diagnose patients with irritable bowel syndrome when presented with the symptoms. Bacterial vaginosis can also cause abdominal discomfort and bloating to occur.

The chances of having vaginal candidiasis increase depending on several factors. Women on contraceptive pills or long-term antibiotics are more likely to have recurrent yeast infections.

The same is true for people with high-sugar consumption or eating lots of carbohydrates. However, the only sure way to know is through a laboratory test. The test itself is relatively pain-free, with quick results. Once a confirmatory test is made, it’s easier for doctors to suggest a variety of treatments.

How Can a Yeast Infection Cause Abdominal Pain and Bloating?

Pain and bloating can happen with yeast overgrowth. The yeast overwhelms the gut, causing an imbalance between the good and bad bacteria. As a result, the harmful bacteria start to digest the food a person eats and produce a large amount of gas. This gas builds up in the gut, leading to bloating and pain. This is why the symptoms tend to worsen with high-starch food items. Like in bread, the yeast infection causes a “rising” effect in the stomach which causes uncomfortable swelling.

Common Symptoms of Stomach Pain/Bloating

Stomach pain and bloating because of candida yeast can produce other symptoms, including belching, burping, bloating, and stomach pain. Some people report a heavy feeling in their chest area, while others report pain when sitting or lying down. In addition, severe bloating can lead to other problems like constipation, diarrhea, or even blood in the stool.

How Do You Prevent Pain in the Lower Abdomen and Vaginal Discharge?

Good hygiene is the best defense against yeast overgrowth in the vagina. Washing with mild and unscented soaps would be the best way to keep the vagina smelling fresh and clean. Douching and scented vaginal washes can only irritate the vagina and cause an imbalance of good bacteria. Other precautionary treatment options include:

Keep your vagina dry

Keeping the vagina dry and wearing clean underwear daily is one of the ways to prevent a yeast overgrowth infection. Always use a condom during sexual intercourse — even if the patient is on the pill. In addition, doctors recommend wiping from front to back after going to the bathroom. Those suffering from yeast overgrowth should also stop using wet wipes when cleaning their vagina.

Stay away from high-carb foods

Refraining from eating high-carb food items can also minimize bloating and swelling because of candida. Instead, eat only small meals and commit to daily exercises to relieve gas buildup.

Rest properly

Studies show that high-stress levels can also promote fungal growth, so patients need to relax at the end of the day. Losing weight has also been shown to help minimize the chances of yeast overgrowth.

Eat healthily

Food products containing “good bacteria,” like yogurt, can help improve gut balance and make it easier for patients to fight off the infection.

Monitor your medications

Yeast overgrowth can also happen with the use of certain medications. If possible, a change in prescription can help minimize the symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Help

Immediately seek medical help if the pain in the abdomen is too severe for you to function normally. Accompanying symptoms like chest pain, fever, and vomiting should also be causes for concern. If the lower abdominal discomfort lasts more than a day, visit a doctor immediately.

Patients should never ignore symptoms like unexplained weight loss, pain during sex, and bloody vaginal discharge if it has no connection with menstruation. Patients should also consult a doctor if they feel pain or a burning feeling during urination. Even if not listed here, any alarming symptom should also prompt patients to visit their physician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thrush – causes, symptoms, treatment

What is candidiasis (thrush)?

Thrush (vaginal candidiasis) is a disease that many are used to treating on their own. Many women think that getting rid of unpleasant symptoms eliminates the disease itself.

Alas, getting rid of the symptoms of thrush does not mean curing thrush!

Let’s take it in order:

• How does thrush appear?
• What are its symptoms?
• Why and how is candidiasis diagnosed?
• How to treat thrush correctly, why go to a gynecologist and why you can’t treat yourself, at home, using numerous pills and suppositories for thrush?

How does (thrush) appear?

Normally, a certain amount of Candida species is always present in the vaginal flora. But this does not lead to the development of candidiasis, because the vagina contains lactobacilli and some bacteria that protect against infection.

If the number of lactobacilli decreases (this can happen as a result of a decrease in immunity, as well as for some other reasons), then the fungi begin to multiply actively. This is what causes the symptoms of thrush.

Possible causes of thrush (candidiasis)

• Weak immune system.
• Stress.
• Treatment with antibiotics.
• Hormonal failure.
• Taking oral contraceptives.
• Allergic reaction to hygiene products.
• Pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding.
• Certain diseases (diabetes mellitus, hepatitis, HIV, cancer, etc.).

Symptoms of thrush

• Burning and itching of the vulva.
• Profuse vaginal discharge, white or milky, mucous or cheesy, odorless.
• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia).
• Pain when urinating.

Diagnosis and identification of the causes of thrush

The manifestations of thrush are so noticeable that, in fact, the patient herself can diagnose it.

In this case, the gynecologist faces two main tasks:

1. To identify the causes of candidiasis, since successful treatment is possible only after the complete elimination of the causes that caused the disease.
2. Get tested for other vaginal infections, as common thrush can hide much more dangerous problems.

To identify the causes of thrush, the doctors of the Alan Clinic center carry out the following activities:

• Interview with a patient.
• Laboratory studies.
• Ultrasound.

How to cure thrush?

Treatment should be carried out under the full supervision of the attending physician and include several stages (it is possible to carry out these therapeutic measures in parallel):

1. Elimination of unpleasant symptoms of the disease.
2. Comprehensive treatment of the causes of thrush.
3. Strengthening the immune system.
4. Treatment of other diseases of the female genital area (if necessary).
5. Adjustment of the patient’s lifestyle and diet.
6. Development of an individual prevention program.
7. Monitoring the patient’s condition after treatment.

Questions to the gynecologist about the treatment of thrush

I have thrush. Does my sexual partner need treatment?

04/05/2019

Is it possible to have sex with thrush?

04.04.2019

Is it possible to cure thrush with a diet?

04/03/2019

Ask a questionView other questions

causes, symptoms and effective treatment

Content

• 1 Thrush in women: symptoms, causes and effective treatments
  • 1.1 Thrush in women: causes, symptoms and effective treatment
    • 1.1.1 What is thrush?
  • 1.2 What are the causes of thrush in women?
  • 1.3 Symptoms of thrush in women
  • 1.4 How to correctly diagnose thrush?
  • 1.5 How to prevent thrush?
  • 1.6 How to effectively treat thrush in women?
  • 1. 7 Drug treatment of thrush
  • 1.8 Non-drug treatments for thrush
    • 1.8.1 Maintain good hygiene
    • 1.8.2 Avoid stress
    • 1.8.3 Eat right 90 012
    • 1.8.4 Use probiotics
    • 1.8.5 Try folk remedies
  • 1.9 How long does it take to treat thrush?
  • 1.10 Related videos:
  • 1.11 Q&A:
    • • 1.11.0.1 What is thrush?
      • 1.11.0.2 What are the symptoms of thrush?
      • 1.11.0.3 What are the causes of thrush?
      • 1.11.0.4 How can thrush be prevented?
      • 1.11.0.5 What are the treatments for thrush?
      • 1.11.0.6 Can thrush lead to more serious complications?

Thrush in women is a disease caused by fungi. It can manifest itself with various symptoms and requires mandatory treatment. In this article, we will talk about the main causes of the disease, symptoms and effective methods of treating thrush in women.

Thrush, or candidiasis, is a common infection in women caused by the fungus Candida albicans. According to statistics, more than 75% of women have experienced this problem at least once in their lives. Thrush can occur for various reasons such as antibiotic therapy, steroids, diabetes, pregnancy, tight clothing, etc.

The main symptoms of thrush include: itching and burning in the vaginal area, white vaginal discharge, discomfort when urinating. If these symptoms are not addressed, thrush can lead to more serious problems, including uterine damage, infertility, and more.

There are many treatments for thrush, but the effectiveness depends on the specific situation and the causes of the disease. Consultation with a doctor, tests and examination are necessary conditions for making a diagnosis and prescribing the right treatment. Classical treatments may include antibiotics and antifungal medications. However, there are also effective folk recipes and dietary changes that help improve the condition and speed up recovery.

It is important to understand that thrush is a disease that should receive careful and competent medical attention. If you suspect thrush, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Thrush in women: causes, symptoms and effective treatment

What is thrush?

Thrush is a disorder caused by a fungal infection that causes discomfort in women. Causes of thrush can be injustices of nature, the use of certain medications, diseases of the immune system, or changes in hormone levels.

The main symptom of thrush is discomfort in the genital area: itching, burning, severe irritation, swelling and an unpleasant odor. White discharge may also appear, which can be foul-smelling and uncomfortable.

Effective treatment for thrush includes the use of antifungals, preferably under the direction of a physician. To prevent thrush, it is recommended to observe the hygiene of the genitals, wear natural underwear, avoid bad habits and maintain a healthy immune system.

What are the causes of thrush in women?

Thrush is a common fungal disease caused by Candida albicans. And although this fungus is always present on the skin and mucous membranes of a person, but under certain conditions it can be activated and cause a disease.

One of the most common causes of thrush in women is an imbalance in the microflora in the vagina. Normally, beneficial bacteria should live in the vagina, which create a protective layer and maintain a certain level of acidity in the environment. But when this balance changes, fungal growth and infection develop.

Also, thrush can be caused by changes in social and hygienic conditions, non-compliance with preventive measures, unfavorable environmental conditions and other factors.

Symptoms of thrush in women

Thrush is an infectious disease caused by the fungus Candida albicans. Symptoms of thrush in women can manifest themselves in different ways and range from mild to severe forms.

The most common symptom of thrush is itching around the vagina, which can become unbearable. Also, women may experience a white discharge from the vagina, a strong odor and swelling of the genitals.

Other signs of thrush in women may include burning during urination and pain during intercourse. Some women may experience headaches, fatigue, and pain in the lower abdomen.

In some cases, thrush may not cause any symptoms and is only discovered during a medical examination or testing for other infections.

At the first sign of thrush in women, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How to correctly diagnose thrush?

Diagnosis of thrush can be challenging as the symptoms may be subtle and similar to other gynecological conditions.

Laboratory tests can be done to confirm the diagnosis, such as smear examination for flora by microscopy or detection of fungi by culture.

It is also important to rule out other diseases that can mimic thrush, such as bacterial vaginosis or viral herpes. For this, additional laboratory tests and consultations of specialists are carried out.

It is important to see a doctor when symptoms appear, as thrush can lead to serious consequences if not treated promptly.

How to prevent thrush?

Thrush is a fairly common disease in women. To prevent its occurrence, you must follow the following recommendations:

• Maintain hygiene – be sure to take a shower every day, use natural underwear, do not wear too tight clothes.
• Maintain the balance of the microflora in the vagina – for this you can use special probiotic preparations that support the health of the vagina and intimate health in general.
• Correctly treat other diseases – inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract can cause thrush. Therefore, when such symptoms appear, you should consult a doctor.
• Limit the use of antibiotics – The transformation of the microflora in the intestines can lead to the development of thrush, therefore it is necessary to use antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor.

Following these simple rules will help prevent thrush and keep a woman healthy in general.

How to effectively treat thrush in women?

Thrush in women is a disease that causes many uncomfortable symptoms. Treatment should be comprehensive and aimed at eliminating the causes and symptoms of the disease.

Thrush is usually treated with medication. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antifungal medications, and ointments to help address the cause and relieve symptoms. The duration of the course and dosage of drugs depend on the severity of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient.

It is also recommended to use probiotic products that strengthen the immune system and improve the microflora in the body. In addition, it is useful to consume yogurt and kefir, which contain beneficial microorganisms.

Equally important in the treatment of thrush is a balanced diet. A woman should reduce her intake of sweets, mushrooms, pickles and acidic foods, and increase the amount of vegetables and fruits in her diet.

Drug treatment of thrush

Thrush is an infectious disease caused by fungi of the genus Candida that settle on the skin, vagina and other mucous membranes. Medicines, including antifungal drugs, are used to effectively treat thrush.

One of the most common antimycotic drugs is fluconazole, which is available as tablets, capsules and injection. It blocks the synthesis of the fungal cell wall and kills the fungi.

Another drug used in the treatment of thrush is a vaginal cream containing clotrimazole. It kills fungi and relieves symptoms of the disease, such as itching, irritation, and vaginal discharge.

Some doctors may also recommend vaginal suppositories containing metronidazole or tinidazole. They are used for thrush caused by bacterial infections that may coexist with a fungal infection.

It is important to note that the choice of a drug for the treatment of thrush should be made only by a doctor, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and the nature of the disease. Uncontrolled use of antimycotic drugs can lead to the development of drug resistance of fungi and increase the risk of relapses.

Non-drug methods of fighting thrush

Maintain hygiene

When thrush occurs, it is important to follow the rules of hygiene: change underwear more often, use only personal hygiene products (towels, soap, shaving pads, toothbrushes) and not wear too thick or synthetic underwear.

Avoid stress

Stress can weaken the immune system, which increases the risk of thrush. Try to avoid stressful situations, exercise regularly, meditate and practice yoga.

Eat right

Proper nutrition is one of the key factors in the fight against thrush. Give up sweets, starchy foods, fatty foods, increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. It is also worth increasing the amount of yogurt in the diet, which contains vitamin D and beneficial bacteria that help eliminate thrush.

Use probiotics

Probiotics help boost immunity and eliminate thrush. They contain beneficial bacteria that eliminate pathogens. Doctors usually prescribe probiotics as part of special preparations or additional components to the main treatment.

Try folk remedies

Natural oils and herbs have antifungal properties and can effectively fight thrush. For example, juniper oil, calendula tincture and garlic suppositories help to eliminate the infectious process and reduce inflammation.

How long does it take to treat thrush?

Thrush is a disease that occurs due to the multiplication of a fungal pathogen on the mucous membrane of the genital organs. Treatment of thrush should be comprehensive and aimed at eliminating the cause of the disease.

The duration of treatment for thrush depends on many factors, including the severity and chronicity of the disease, renal function, the age of the patient, and the presence of comorbidities. In general, the standard course of treatment for thrush usually lasts 3 to 7 days. However, in some cases, the course of treatment can last up to 14 days or even more.

It is important to remember that when treating thrush, you must strictly follow all the doctor’s recommendations and not stop treatment ahead of time, even if the symptoms of the disease have disappeared. With insufficient duration of treatment for thrush, the development of a chronic course and relapse of the disease is possible.

1. Standard treatment for thrush is 3 to 7 days;
2. The duration of treatment depends on many factors, including the severity and chronicity of the disease, renal function, age of the patient and the presence of comorbidities;
3. It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations and not stop treatment ahead of time, even if the symptoms of the disease have disappeared;
4. With insufficient duration of treatment for thrush, the development of a chronic course and relapse of the disease is possible.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is thrush?

Thrush is a disease of the female reproductive system caused by the fungus Candida albicans. It can lead to inflammation of the vagina, causing itching, burning, soreness, and discharge.

What are the symptoms of thrush?

Women with thrush may experience symptoms such as itching, burning, soreness, and discomfort during intercourse. Discharge may also be present, which may be white in color and have a slimy or loose consistency.

What are the causes of thrush?

Thrush usually occurs when the flora in the vagina is out of balance. This can happen as a result of taking antibiotics, changes in hormonal balance during pregnancy or menstruation, or deterioration in the overall health of the body. Also, the risk of thrush increases with the use of large amounts of sweet and fatty foods, as well as in the presence of diabetes.

How can thrush be prevented?

To prevent thrush, you need to maintain good hygiene of the genitals, avoid the use of contraception, which can upset the balance of the flora in the vagina, and eat healthy food.