What Is Vaginal Candidiasis? 

Vaginal candidiasis is an infection in the vaginal area caused by a yeast called Candida. This is a type of fungus that lives inside the body in areas like the throat, mouth, gut, and vagina. Although this fungus is observed on the skin, it normally causes no problems. Sometimes, the fungus can multiply and lead to infection if the environment inside the vagina encourages the growth of the fungus. This infection is called vaginal candidiasis.

Symptoms Of Vaginal Candidiasis 

Vaginal candidiasis is commonly called vaginal yeast infection and can have many symptoms. Some of the commonly observed indicators of vaginal candidiasis are:

• Discomfort or itching
• Irritations while urinating
• Pain during sex
• Abnormal discharge from the vagina

Most vaginal candidiasis can be mild. However, in some cases, severe infections can develop resulting in redness, cracks, and swelling in the vaginal wall. If you experience any of these symptoms visit a free women’s clinic or any other low income clinic in your area and get yourself tested. The symptoms of vaginal candidiasis are similar to that of many other vaginal infections and a healthcare provider will be able to confirm if you have vaginal candidiasis and suggest proper treatment methods.

Prevention Of Vaginal Candidiasis 

Vaginal candidiasis is a commonly seen medical condition. Women who are likely to get this infection include those who:

• Use hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills
• Are pregnant
• Have diabetes
• Have a weak immune system

As per the experts, wearing cotton undergarments may help decrease the chances of contracting a yeast infection. Besides, taking antibiotic medications can result in vaginal candidiasis. Therefore, take these medications only when prescribed and stick on to the dosage.

Testing And Treating Vaginal Candidiasis 

Vaginal candidiasis is tested by taking a sample of vaginal discharge and examining it under a microscope. The vaginal discharge may also be sent to a lab for fungal culture. It is important to understand that a positive fungal culture does not mean that the fungus is causing symptoms of candidiasis. This is because some women can have candida fungus in their vaginas without any symptoms.

Usually, anti-fungal medications are used in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis. These medications will be applied inside the vagina to treat the infection. For more severe infections and for infections that do not get better with the usual treatment methods, other treatments may be necessary.