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What causes vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC)?
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is caused by the proliferation of the candida yeasts that are routinely found in the vagina. It is a common condition among women of childbearing age, and can be triggered by many factors such as pregnancy, and the use of birth control pills, antibiotics and cortisone. Vulvovaginal candidiasis may appear without apparent cause, but may also occur if the area is cleaned too often or following the use of antiseptic cleansers. A diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis can be determined following clinical observation, pH measurement (about 4.0), microscopic examination, and culture examination.
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is not contagious:It is not a sexually transmitted infection, but rather an overgrowth of Candida. It is not contagious to men because Candida does not thrive in male genitalia.
What vulvovaginal candidiasis looks like
Vulvovaginal candidiasis causes profuse vaginal discharge that looks like curdled milk, alongside vulvar burning and itching.
Vulvovaginal candidiasis versus bacterial vulvovaginitis
Candidiasis is often confused with bacterial vulvovaginitis, however the conditions have both different symptoms and treatment.
Complicated vulvovaginal candidiasis is defined as cases where three or more recurrences happen within the space of one year.
Treatment
Vulvovaginal candidiasis
Topical antifungal products are used to treat cases of vulvovaginal candidiasis.
What is the most commonly used antifungal to treat vulvovaginal candidiasis?
The most commonly used antifungal to treat the condition is sertaconazole. Just one application is usually enough to bring candida back to a healthy concentration and eliminate symptoms of an overgrowth.
How to prevent vulvovaginal candidiasis
aspirazione (slip in sintetico, salvaslip, calze nylon a trama stretta, indumenti in sintetico, ecc…). Some measures to prevent vulvovaginal candidiasis include: avoid candida-inducing drugs (e.g. antibiotics, the contraceptive pill), avoid frequent washing, avoid vaginal douches, reduce trauma wherever possible (e.g. tight trousers, cycling etc…), avoid tight, non breathable fabrics such as synthetic underwear, stockings and panty liners .
FAQs on vulvovaginal candidiasis
Can oral antifungals be used?
While often prescribed, oral antifungals should be avoided as candida exists naturally in the vagina and cannot be nullified.
Should men be treated for the condition?
No, because men cannot become a healthy carrier.
Should feminine washes be used?
No. Instead of feminine hygiene products, use Eudermic Cleansing Base which is less irritating and gentler on inflammation. Avoid any product containing lavender, as they create moisture and dysbiosis.
Should sexual intercourse be avoided?
When the area is inflamed, it is best to suspend sexual intercourse in order to avoid any extra discomfort. In addition, sexual intercourse often causes trauma to the vulvovaginal area that can facilitate the recurrence of candidiasis.
Can vulvar lubricants be used?
Yes. Lubricants that do not contain water, grease or preservatives will lessen the traumatic action of intercourse. DermaClub suggests using LIPLAP.
Conclusion
Cases of vulvovaginal candidiasis can be effectively prevented and treated.
