Candida Vulvovaginitis
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Candida albicans is the yeast fungus usually responsible for vulvar itching and discharge. It is commonly the offender that women often refer to any vulvovaginal itching as a "yeast infection," but be aware that all itches are not necessarily caused by yeast. A number of other infectious organisms could cause these symptoms, and it may require microscopic examination of the discharge to be certain of the diagnosis.
Certain conditions and treatments, including pregnancy, diabetes mellitus, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), treatment with corticosteroid medications, and the use of the birth control pill or certain antibiotics, which can disrupt the normal ecology of the vaginal canal by destroying the so-called friendly bacteria that populate the vaginal canal and keep the yeast fungus in check, give the yeast fungus the opportunity to flourish. Heat, moisture, and clothing that does not permit sufficient air circulation to allow the area to dry may increase the risk for C. albicans vulvovaginitis. Women who test positive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may suffer recurring yeast infections that cannot readily be explained by these other factors.
Itching of vulva and vaginal vault; discharge, usually white, curd-like, and without significant odor; pain during intercourse.
Yeast organisms visible on microscopic examination of discharge specimen.
To prevent a yeast infection, wear cotton underwear to allow air to circulate. Although a number of medications to treat yeast infections have recently become available over-the-counter, be cautious in making a hasty self-diagnosis.
In the past, women with yeast infections would consult their doctors, who would prescribe an appropriate antifungal medication. But many antifungal medications are now available over-the-counter, and women who have been diagnosed with yeast infections in the past may feel comfortable using the over-the-counter medication to treat the condition. Products containing antifungal medications such as butoconazole 2 percent, terconazole 0.8 percent, clotrimazole 1 percent, or miconazole 2 percent, are available in creams or tablets that are applied intravaginally at bedtime for 1 to 7 days, depending upon the type of medication purchased. Generally, the shorter the course of treatment, the more expensive the medication. The shorter course of treatment is more convenient but occasionally less effective. In some cases, oral antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole or fluconazole may be needed to eradicate the infection. Consult your doctor if the condition fails to respond to over-the-counter remedies or promptly recurs.
See your doctor about any vulvar or vaginal itch or discharge that is recurring or that fails to respond promptly to over-the-counter medications.
Excellent with proper treatment.
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