Candidiasis or vaginal yeast infection; in layman's terms, is a fungal infection that affects the vagina when Candida albicans organisms are positive in the body, says Dr. Arti. A healthy vagina has good bacteria and yeast cells. But when the candida albicans overgrows in the body, it causes this infection.
Along with the vagina, sometimes, Candidiasis can also affect the underarms, groin and under the breasts, as it is one of the most common problems faced by a woman under hot and humid climatic conditions due to skin folds and improper ventilation.
A feeling of severe itchiness is experienced by the patient and redness develops on the exterior and interior walls of the vagina. Though hardly any pain is experienced, there are some common symptoms you should look out for:
1. Soreness around the affected area, due to extreme scratching.
2. A thick, white, curd-like vaginal discharge that does not have a bad smell.
3. Swelling around the vagina, and
4. Pain during sex.
Dr. Arti says that there are several factors which contribute to yeast infections and women of any age group can get affected by it. Women who take antibiotics (consistently for long periods, their immune system weakens), are pregnant, diabetic or have a weak immune system are prone to it. Many times, she says, a patient does not even know that they are diabetic and when tested for this infection, they get to know about their disease. It can either be diagnosed for in a laboratory or a pelvic examination in the OPD can give the doctor a clear view. The ones sent to the lab are mostly for women who have infections on a regular basis, and won't go away easily.
Candidiasis is commonly treated with antimycotics like Fluconazole and Itraconazole (as popping a pill is easier and the doses are typically for fewer days). The PH value of the vagina should always be taken into consideration as it is an indicator as to how healthy a vagina is. The value should be approximately between 3.8 - 4.5. For instant relief from local itching, antifungal ointment is also prescribed, says Dr. Luthra.
To prevent such infection from occuring, Dr. Arti suggests a number of alternatives:
1. Choose cotton material for your underwear and pantyhose.
2. Avoid tight underwear or clothes made of synthetic fibers.
3. Change tampons and pads often during your period.
4. Change out of wet swimsuits and gym wear as soon as you can
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5. Most importantly, do not forget to dry your vagina after washing it.
Dr. Arti Luthra. M.B.B.S. is a practising gynaecologist for the last 30 years in West Delhi, with a special interest in fertility.
Disclaimer: Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
