VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION (CANDIDIASIS)

Candidiasis is caused by a fungal microorganism called Candida Albicans. It is a yeast organism which usually lives harmlessly in the vagina, bowel and mouth, all the time. All women have it.

The problem arises when it gets out of control and there is an overgrowth. Vaginal candidiasis or vaginal thrush is a common term used for a fungal infection that develops inside the vulva or vagina.

Causes of Vaginal Candidiasis;

• Pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop vaginal candidiasis and have recurrent bouts of infection.
• People with diabetes are also more likely to develop vaginal candidiasis because the elevated level of sugar in the body provides food for yeast and encourages its overgrowth.
• Women at risk for vaginal candidiasis include those taking antibiotics, especially for a long period of time. Antibiotics kill bacteria, which can alter the balance of microorganisms in the vagina and other places in the body. This can result in an increase of vaginal candidiasis.
• Wearing tight clothes leads to an increased retention of heat as well as an increased level of moisture in the vaginal area, which leads to Candidiasis.
• A stressful period in your life such as divorce, bereavement etc.
• Weakened immune system due to illness.
• Other people at risk include the elderly due to hormonal changes during menopause.

The common symptoms of vaginal candidiasis include;

• White, thick vaginal discharge with no odour.
• Stinging or itching inside the vagina or on the surrounding area
• Burning sensation during urination
• Pain during sexual intercourse

Vaginal Candida infection is extremely common.

Treatment List for Vaginal candidiasis

Conventional medical treatment for vaginal Candida infection is based on taking drugs or using topical creams or suppository though recurrence of the disease may occur. In order to completely eliminate candidiasis and prevent their recurrence, one must complement medical treatment with natural holistic methods to fight Candida infection and regain the natural inner balance.

How to avoid getting Candidiasis. Prevention measures include:

• Maintain good hygiene in the genital area and keep it dry.
• Wipe the genital area from the front to the back after urinating or defecating. This may help prevent getting bacteria and yeast from the rectal area into the vagina.
• It is also important to use antibiotics only when truly needed.
• Don't use douches. Douching changes the normal acid level of the vagina and causes inflammation, both of which may increase the risk of infection.
• Avoid perfumed soaps, genital sprays, colored or perfumed toilet paper, deodorant pads or tampons, bubble baths and any other irritants such as disinfectants. Change tampons and pads often during your period.
• Don't wear tight underwear that block air flow or clothes made of synthetic fibers.
• Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch as it lets air in and moisture out.
• Change out of wet swimsuits and exercise clothes as soon as possible.

Many women choose to ignore the symptoms, mainly due to the intimate character of the infection. Appearance of one or more symptoms mentioned above is a sufficient reason for seeing a doctor.

Neglected vaginal yeast infection condition might have a destructive influence on a woman’s self- esteem, on her intimate life and in some cases, might lead to a serious condition that can have dire consequences on one's health if left untreated.

SEEK THE ADVICE OF A QUALIFIED MEDICAL PRACTITIONER