Vulvo-vaginal candidiasis

What is vaginal candidiasis?

Vaginal candidiasis is an infection of the vagina caused by fungi from the group candida. Candida is found in the vagina in small numbers and, together with bacteria, forms the normal vaginal flora, that is, the vaginal microbiome. When fungus grows in the vagina, it damages the cells of the vaginal wall and causes an inflammatory reaction that causes symptoms. When the skin of the vulva is also affected, the term vulvo-vaginal candidiasis is used.

How often does it occur?

75% of women have vulvo-vaginal candidiasis at some point in their lives, while 10% of women have the infection 3 or more times a year.

What are the symptoms of vaginal candidiasis?

Symptoms of vaginal candidiasis are:

• itching;
• burning sensation;
• increased white discharge;
• pain when urinating;
• fissures in the skin of the vulva.

How is vulvo-vaginal infection diagnosed?

Vulvo-vaginal infection is diagnosed:

• gynecological examination;
• direct examination of vaginal secretions under a microscope;
• inoculation of the media in microbiological laboratory.

What are the risk factors for development of yeast vaginal infection?

Risk factors for vaginal candidiasis are:

• unregulated diabetes;
• hormone replacement in menopause;
• use of antibiotics, corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs;
• genetic predisposition;
• pregnancy.

How is vaginal candidiasis treated?

Vulvo-vaginal candidiasis is treated with drugs from the anti-mycotic group, the most common being local application in the form of creams and vaginal suppositories. Oral therapy is also used.