Candidiasis

Table of contents:
1- What is candidiasis?
2- Causes of vaginal candidiasis
3- Diagnosis of candidiasis
4- What are the symptoms?
5- Can it be prevented?
6- How is it treated?

What is candidiasis?

Candidiasis is an infection caused by the Candida fungus, the most common being Candida albicans. It is found in small amounts in the vagina, mouth, digestive tract and on the skin, often without causing infection. However, the amount of Candida albicans can increase leading to candidiasis.

Most women have a vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime. It is not spread through sexual contact, but some men may develop a rash on the penis after sexual contact.

Causes of vaginal candidiasis

The causes of candidiasis are:

  • Taking antibiotics used to treat other types of infections.
  • Being pregnant.
  • obesity
  • having diabetes

Taking antibiotics
can lead to candidiasis

Medical tests for the diagnosis of candidiasis

To determine whether candidiasis is present, it is first necessary to analyze the patient’s medical history, taking into account previous infections, both vaginal and sexually transmitted.
On the other hand, an external pelvic examination can be performed to test for signs of infection, and an internal examination with a speculum to evaluate the vagina and cervix.

Finally, there is the analysis of vaginal secretions, which consists of a sample of vaginal fluid that seeks to determine what type of fungus has caused the candidiasis.

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What are the symptoms?

The main symptoms of vaginal candidiasis are:

  • Burning sensation and itching of the vaginal lips.
  • Pain when urinating.
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge, which fluctuates from a watery white substance to an abundant and thick one.
  • Inflammation and redness of the outer skin of the vulva.
  • Pain during sexual intercourse.

Can it be prevented?

Candidiasis can be prevented by paying attention to the following points:
– Keep the genital area clean and free of moisture.
– Avoid non-neutral soap.
– Do not douche.
– Consume yogurt and other foods with lactobacillus bacteria.
– Do not wear extremely tight pants, as this may cause irritation and sweating.
– Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
– Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and fragrances.
– Use cotton underwear, avoiding silk or nylon.

How is the treatment?

When a patient has mild or moderate symptoms, and infections are infrequent, there are two types of treatment:
– Antifungal medication: usually administered for three to seven days. May be in cream, tablets or suppositories and usually include miconazole and terconazole.

– Single oral dose of miconazole.

However, if symptoms are more severe or the infection recurs again and again within less than two months, there are other routes:

– Azole-resistant therapy: the specialist may prescribe boric acid, which is a capsule that is inserted into the vagina.