Vulvo-Vaginal Candidiasis/Yeast Infection
Vulvo-Vaginal candidiasis or yeast infection is a very common symptom amongst women. It is estimated that 3 in every 4 women will suffer from yeast infection at least once. Many women may have recurrent episodes of this infection.
The organism causing this disease is a yeast called Candida Albicans. There are a few other yeasts which cause infection but more than 80% of the yeast infections is caused by the former. This organism is found on our body in the gut, under nails and vagina.
Typically women complain of itching in the vulva and vagina associated with a thick curdly discharge. This discharge may have a yeasty scent to it. There will also be redness of the skin over vulva and vagina. Sometime the discharge may not be curdly.
Yeast infection or candidiasis is diagnosed by the history given by the patient and microscopy. Scrapping a few drops of the discharge on a slide and looking under the microscope will show the yeast in cases of candidiasis.
Although this is a simple disease to cure, many women present with recurrent bouts of yeast infection. The diseases commonly associated with recurrent candida infections are immune-suppression, HIV, steroids, diabetes, vaginal douching, bubble baths, shower gels tight cloths and tights. Other causes of recurrent yeast infection are increased estrogens, pregnancy, oral contraceptive pills, local skin conditions like eczema and antibiotic therapy.
Treatment of this disease is easy and can usually be accomplished by a single dose of antifungal agent. The commonest choice is 500mg pessary of Clotrimazole. It is commonly available in the market as candid vaginal pessaries and cream and many other brands. During menstruation you can take a tablet of Fluconazole to cure this infection.
Yeast infections can be prevented by a few simple precautions. Hygiene is paramount, especially during menstruation. While washing you should not use vaginal douches or soaps on your vagina. These agents kill the lactobacilli and promote colonisation of your vagina by the disease causing bacteria. You should also avoid wearing tights and tight underwear. Also be careful while using public bathrooms.
Most yeast infections are cured with this single shot, however some women may continue to have recurrence. Taking Fluconazole on a continuous basis at the dose of one tablet per week will help prevent recurrences. Such treatment should continue for six months.
Did you Know That Yeast Infection Can Be Cured Naturally Without Using Antibiotics. For more info Click Here
