Vaginal Fungal Infection: Some Important Facts to Know

Vaginal Fungal Infection: Some Important Facts to Know

Vaginal fungal infection is a very common health problem among women. Most women face this problem at some point in their lives. It is nothing to be ashamed of, nor is it something to be neglected. If you are aware of it on time and get the right treatment, this problem can be easily controlled.

Why do fungal infections occur?

Our vagina naturally contains some beneficial bacteria. Along with this, there is also a small amount of a type of fungus called Candida. Under normal conditions, these do not cause any problems.

But if the natural balance of the vagina is disturbed, this fungus can grow excessively and cause infection.

Possible causes of vaginal imbalance include—

• Unnecessary or prolonged use of antibiotics

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy

• Uncontrolled diabetes

• Weak body or decreased immune system

• Excessive stress

• Use of steroid medications

• Wearing very tight or synthetic clothes

• Being wet or sweaty for a long time

• Hormonal changes due to birth control pills

What are the common symptoms?

• Severe itching in and around the vagina

• White, thick discharge (like curd or pus)

• Usually no odor

• Redness or swelling of the vaginal wall

• Burning during urination

• In some cases, discomfort during intercourse

• Sometimes the problem is felt more before menstruation

Symptoms that are not usually of a fungal infection

Be careful if you have these symptoms—

• Strong odor or fishy odor

• Green or yellow discharge

• Fever

In these cases, the problem may also be another infection, so consulting a doctor is essential.

How is the disease diagnosed?

Most of the time, it can be diagnosed by looking at the symptoms. However—

• If the same problem occurs repeatedly

• Medications don't work

• Symptoms seem unusual

Then the doctor may ask you to do a swab test from the vagina.

What is the treatment?

For mild cases—

• Antifungal creams or suppositories for vaginal use

(such as clotrimazole, miconazole)

• Usually help within 1–7 days

In some cases—

• Oral medications (such as fluconazole) may be given

• However, these medications are usually not given during pregnancy

• Never take medication on your own

If it recurs—

• Long-term treatment is needed

• If you have diabetes, it is very important to control your blood sugar

Things to do during pregnancy

• Vaginal creams are generally safe

• Oral medications are avoided

• You should definitely seek medical advice

What to do, what not to do

✔ Keep the area clean and dry

✔ Wear loose cotton underwear

✔ Change wet clothes promptly

✔ Avoid unnecessary antibiotics

✘ Do not use scented soaps, sprays, or douches

✘ Do not hide the problem

When should you see a doctor quickly?

• If this is the first time you have this problem

• If the itching or burning is unbearable

• If the problem comes back repeatedly

• If you are pregnant

• If the discharge has a foul odor, changes in color, or fever

👉 If you get treatment on time, this problem can be easily controlled.

Please share this information.

Many women suffer unnecessarily just because they don't know.

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