Candidiasis is an infection caused by a fungus called Candida Albicans, found in small quantities and in different areas of the body, such as the skin, mouth or vagina, without normally causing any illness. The excessive and sudden growth of this fungus results in an imbalance in vaginal microbiota and results in infection.
It is estimated that 75% of women have this infection at least once in their lives, and of these, between 10-20% of cases are recurrent. To avoid this, it is advisable to take precautions and follow appropriate vaginal hygiene guidelines.
The symptoms you may notice are changes in vaginal discharge (a greater amount, white or thick), internal irritation or around the vagina, pain during urination or sexual intercourse, inflammation and redness of the vulva and vagina, fissures, burning and itching in the labia minora and vagina.
During menopause, susceptibility to suffering from vaginal infections can increase due to hormonal changes, which cause changes in hydration and vaginal pH. This is related to the genitourinary syndrome of menopause.
Symptoms usually disappear completely if appropriate treatment is applied, which is usually an antifungal medication in the form of tablets, vaginal suppositories or cream applied locally. However, taking some preventive measures can help.
Treatments for recurrent candidiasis
The usual treatment is the administration of antifungal medication in the form of oral tablets, vaginal suppositories or cream applied locally. But you should never self-medicate yourself. Taking care of your diet, following appropriate hygiene guidelines and strengthening your immune system can help prevent it from developing or becoming recurrent. Laser treatment helps to recover the pH of the vagina and, as such, to re-establish the presence of vaginal Lactobacillus, which is responsible for maintaining the microbiota in balance, in addition to the benefits derived from local hydration.
FAQs
Why can they become recurrent?
They can be recurrent due to multiple factors, but usually they are due to antimicrobial repeat treatments that alter the vaginal microbiota. At the menopause stage, atrophy and dryness increase susceptibility.
What other types of vaginal or urinary infections can be most common in menopause?
They are the same as in the general female population.
How long does the treatment last?
In general, they are short treatments, lasting just a few days. But sometimes it may be necessary to prolong the treatment and combine it with the consumption of probiotics.
How long should I wait before continuing to have sex again?
You should consult your doctor. In general, the infection goes away in a matter of 7-10 or maximum 15 days, but as we have mentioned, in the case of vaginal infections, it is possible that some symptoms, such as changes in vaginal flow, will remain. The best thing to do is keep regularly getting checked out by your doctor until they confirm it has gone away and your vaginal flora recovers.
What can be done to promote the subsequent recovery of the vaginal microbiota?
Subsequent recovery of the microbiota may require hygienic and dietary changes, taking probiotics and undergoing regenerative therapies at local level.
What other preventive measures can we take?
Limit the consumption of simple sugars, do not apply soap, fragrances or cosmetics in the genital area, use cotton underwear, dry all body areas well, maintain good genital and oral hygiene, avoid vaginal douching, do not use tight or wet garments and change them quickly after doing exercise or swimming. It is also useful to apply barrier methods as protection during sex. Similarly, avoid smoking and stress.
Is it true that probiotic foods can have a protective action for the microbiota?
Yes, especially if you have been taking antibiotics, to encourage their regeneration. And those containing lactobacilli are even better. It is important not to abuse refined carbohydrates and reduce, as much as possible, fat intake, especially saturated fats.
