What is a yeast infection – vaginal yeast infection?
Yeast infections in the genital area are caused by the fungus (Candida albicans). This fungus normally lives on our skin or in our intestines as a saprophyte and does not cause problems.
However, under certain changes in local conditions—as we will describe below—it can overgrow and cause a yeast infection, known as candidiasis. Candidiasis is not usually sexually transmitted, although in some cases it can be. Both the female and male genital organs can be affected by various types of fungi.
What are the main symptoms?
The most common symptoms in women (vaginal yeast infection) are:
- Pain, itching, irritation, and inflammation of the vulva and vagina
- Heavy vaginal discharge
- Swelling and redness of the vulva
- The inner surface of the vagina may be covered with white discharge
- The skin in the area may be sensitive and show small cracks or abrasions
Symptoms in men (penile yeast infection)
Men, unlike women, usually do not show significant symptoms. However, some possible symptoms include:
- Occasionally, both the glans and the foreskin may become red, inflamed, and painful. These symptoms often worsen after sexual intercourse.
- The tip of the penis may develop small sores or be covered with a white coating.
- Discharge from the penis may also be present.
What causes it, and what are the reasons?
Although yeast infections are more common in the summer — since the increased temperature combined with moisture in the vaginal area and the alkaline environment created by sweat promote fungal growth — this does not mean that we are not at risk in the winter.
During the summer, microbes may “hide” in sand, seawater, and swimming pools, but in winter, there are also several factors that can lead to a yeast infection.
Such as: tight pants and synthetic underwear.
Note also
In our time, genital yeast infections are becoming increasingly common. The reasons for their appearance include:
- The widespread and continuously increasing use of antibiotics, as well as the long-term use of contraceptive pills.
- Other medications that can also affect the environment of the genital area — especially the female vagina — may promote the development of yeast infections.
What should you do to avoid vaginal yeast infections?
- Follow basic hygiene rules.
- Avoid contact with public/shared toilets.
- After bathing or washing the area, dry it very carefully.
- Choose underwear made of natural fibers (cotton, linen, silk). Synthetic underwear promotes the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
- Avoid very tight pants.
- Do not use panty liners unless necessary.
- Take a shower after sexual intercourse.
How is the diagnosis made?
The diagnosis of a yeast infection is based primarily on the patient’s medical history, clinical presentation, and additional tests. The direct collection of samples from the vagina, vulva, or penis and their examination can confirm a fungal infection. For this reason, it is very useful to send samples promptly to a microbiology laboratory for cultures.
What is the appropriate treatment?
In women – Vaginal yeast infection
Treatment for women typically includes washing the area with an antiseptic solution and drying it thoroughly. Afterwards, it is recommended to apply topical creams or suppositories with antifungal action such as miconazole, terconazole, tioconazole, clotrimazole, or other antifungal medications.
In men – Penile yeast infection
For men, washing the area with an antiseptic soap and drying it well is also recommended. Afterwards, similar topical antifungal creams can be applied.
Some important points you should know
- In certain groups of patients, it may be necessary to administer oral antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole, fluconazole, or itraconazole.
- In women who continue taking contraceptive pills, recurrent candidiasis is often observed. In such cases, a short-term discontinuation of the pills is recommended.
- Finally, for all patients — both men and women — who are undergoing antibiotic treatment, it is advisable to prevent fungal overgrowth by taking preventive vitamin or probiotic supplements.
Vaginal yeast infections and fertility: Is there an impact?
Yeast infections do not directly affect a woman’s fertility. Of course, the discomfort they cause may make sexual intercourse difficult or even prevent it. However, it should be emphasized that similar symptoms can also occur with other types of infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, etc. In these cases, the vaginal environment becomes hostile to sperm, and conception may be hindered.
Therefore, it is wise that diagnosis and treatment be accurate rather than empirical, in order to ensure the long-term health of the female reproductive system.
In short, you shouldn’t neglect your appointment with your gynecologist .
