Yeast Infection And Candidiasis All You Need To Know About

Introduction To Yeast Infection / Candidiasis

Genital candidiasis, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), candidal vaginitis, monilial vaginitis, monilial infection, and vaginal yeast infection, affects up to 75% of women at some point in their lives. Candida albicans, a fungus that is normally found in vaginal flora, creates an allergic reaction that causes symptoms. It is the most commonly diagnosed vaginal infection and occurs most commonly in sexually active young women.

Although genital yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, infection can be acquired from a partner who has vaginal or oral colonization. The majority of men with genital yeast infection are asymptomatic.

Risk Factors and Causes Of Yeast Infection / Candidiasis

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is an opportunistic infection linked to risk factors that compromise the body's natural defenses against infection and growth, such as:

1. Antibiotics with a broad spectrum of action
2. Diabetes mellitus is a type of diabetes that affects people.
3. Douching \sImmunodeficiency
4. IUDs
5. Pregnancy
6. feminine hygiene products with a scent
7. Use of anabolic steroids

Symptoms and Signs Of Yeast Infection / Candidiasis

Yeast infection symptoms include itching, burning, vulvovaginal pain, irritation, and inflammation. The vaginal walls may be coated in a thick, white, cottage-cheesy discharge. There is no unpleasant odor. Urination and sexual activity can be painful.

Diagnosis Of Yeast Infection / Candidiasis

To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential infections, cultures, a pH level check, and microscopic inspection of vaginal secretions are routinely performed.

Treatment Of Yeast Infection / Candidiasis

Fluconazole or an antifungal vaginal lotion containing miconazole or clotrimazole is usually recommended as a single dose. Creams are typically applied for 3 to 7 days. Oral antifungal medicines can be used to treat a chronic yeast infection for a long time.

Most doctors advise women against self-diagnosing and treating vaginal infections with over-the-counter drugs because symptoms could be caused by more serious illnesses such bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. Some over-the-counter drugs contain chemicals that alleviate symptoms but do not treat the infection properly.

Reference: Wikipedia