21 July 2021 Author : Ana Filipa Brás Candidiasis is an infection caused by a fungus of the genus Candida . There are several species of this fungus, Candida albicans being the most common. After bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis is the most frequent cause of vaginitis, accounting for one third of cases. It is more frequent in women of childbearing age and rare in girls before the first menstruation or in women in menopause, particularly if they do not take estrogen supplementation. Although this is a common problem in women, this does not mean that vaginal thrush happens repeatedly. It is usually a sporadic infection, with no identifiable triggering factor; however, there are some risk factors that predispose to symptomatic infection. How does the infection happen? Candida albicans is a fungus that lives in our body. In the digestive and genitourinary systems, it is part of the usual flora, existing in balance with other microorganisms. Therefore, under normal conditions, it does not cause any infection. However, there are circumstances that favor an exaggerated development of this fungus . When this happens, there is an imbalance of flora, infection occurs and associated symptoms manifest. Vaginal thrush is called an opportunistic infection because the fungus normally exists in the body and takes advantage of favorable conditions to develop in excess, giving rise to the infection. Risk factors for vaginal thrush Vaginal candidiasis is more likely when risk factors such as: Taking some broad-spectrum antibiotics, which cause an imbalance in the vaginal flora, promoting the development of fungi; In situations of increased estrogen levels, such as in pregnancy and under hormone replacement therapy with estrogen in menopausal women; Immune imbalance and immunosuppression, whether due to stress, illness (infection by the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV, for example) or by taking some medications such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants; Diabetes: the risk is greater in diabetics, especially if there is poor glycemic control; Sexual activity: Candidiasis is more common in women who are sexually active, but the infection is not sexually transmitted; The association of vulvovaginal candidiasis with taking oral contraceptives is controversial. Symptoms and diagnosis Symptoms associated with vaginal thrush are: Vulvar itching; Pain, redness, irritation and swelling in the vulva and vagina; Dysuria (pain when urinating) and dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse); Changes in vaginal discharge, typically white, pasty without odor. These symptoms are, however, common to many other genital infections and to problems that are not infections, such as an allergic reaction or eczema. Therefore, it cannot be assumed, given these symptoms, that it is a vaginal candidiasis. It is essential to seek medical attention to correctly identify the source of symptoms and determine the appropriate treatment. Medical observation and some tests make it possible to make a correct diagnosis and prescribe the most appropriate treatment. Treatment of vaginal thrush Depending on the cases, the treatment may include: Topical medicines in the form of vaginal creams, pills and ova; Oral antifungal medication . Usually, with proper treatment, vaginal thrush resolves within a few days. In the event of symptoms that may be associated with a vaginal infection, always seek advice from your gynecologist. Meet the obstetrics-gynecology team from Hospital da Luz network and book your consultation The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
