Probably one of the most unpleasant and common gynecological diseases is candida vulvovaginitis. It is also called the "thrush." Almost every woman is familiar with her. You cannot die from this ailment, but it can significantly worsen the quality of life.
Fungi of the genus Candida cause genital candidiasis . They are normally present in the vagina of every woman. However, when their number increases sharply, they cause inflammation.
If candidal vulvovaginitis is not treated, then the infection can spread to the cervical canal and even the uterus. Over time, urethritis and cystitis occur. The disease becomes chronic, recalling itself with frequent exacerbations.
Candidiasis vulvovaginitis is manifested as follows:
- irritation, burning, itching of the vulva and vagina;
- increased odor, pain, and itching after and during sex;
- increased irritability, nervousness.
The following factors can provoke this disease:
- gastrointestinal diseases (dysbiosis, cholecystitis, colitis);
- metabolic problems (obesity, diabetes, thyroid disease);
- increased amount of estrogen (use of oral contraceptives, pregnancy);
- general diseases of the body, including acute respiratory infections;
The last point leads to genital candidiasis most often. The fact is that when using antibacterial drugs, not only the causative agents of the disease die, but also the microorganisms that make up the normal intestinal and vaginal flora. Their main function is to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. Under these conditions, harmful microorganisms begin to multiply actively.
When the first signs of the disease appear, you need to visit a gynecologist. He will interrogate the patient, conduct an examination, take a smear on the flora. Usually this is enough to make a diagnosis. Upon examination, the doctor will see redness, swelling of the mucous membrane and skin of the labia, cervix and vagina. In the analysis for flora, leukocytes will be increased, mycelium and spores of the fungus will be detected.
However, in the chronic course of the disease this is not enough. In this case, a smear smear from the vagina is performed. This analysis helps determine the type of Candida mushrooms that caused inflammation, their amount and the drug to which they are sensitive. This study is especially relevant for often recurring infections.
In addition, genital candidiasis is a frequent companion of STDs, so when its symptoms appear, it is advisable to undergo a comprehensive examination for them. In general, “thrush” is considered a marker of dysfunction in the genitourinary system.
Therefore, independent treatment of vulvovaginitis is unacceptable. It must be performed by a qualified gynecologist. It is believed that genital candidiasis does not apply to STDs, therefore, examination and treatment of a partner is only necessary for the patient's often recurring, chronic course of the disease.
Candidiasis vulvovaginitis, which is treated locally and systemically, is prone to relapse. The doctor prescribes therapy, taking into account his personal experience, the financial capabilities of the patient, the duration of the disease and its clinical manifestations. For local treatment, candles, balls, vaginal tablets and ointments are used. One of the most popular drugs for systemic therapy of "thrush" is "Fluconazole".
To prevent this disease, it is necessary:
- abandon tight, synthetic underwear and trousers;
- wash in the morning and evening, and during menstruation after changing the gasket (every 4 hours);
- timely treat other diseases;
- consume fermented milk products (preferably biokefir);
- during treatment, exclude sexual intercourse;
- when taking antibiotics, use antifungal drugs (150 mg of fluconazole after each week of therapy);
- timely restore the microflora of the vagina and intestines.
According to statistics, in 5% of women, genital candidiasis acquires a chronic course and has more than 4 relapses per year. In almost 25% of patients, the disease recurs within 3 months after treatment.
So, candida vulvovaginitis is a very unpleasant disease that is prone to relapse. This fact significantly complicates the treatment, which should be carried out in a timely manner. The later the therapy is started, the more difficult and longer it will be.