Candidal vaginitis is also known as vaginal yeast infection. It is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge and intense itching of the vagina and the vulva. It is a type of vaginitis that is caused by a yeast called Candida albicans.

Candidal vaginitis affects three out of four women at some point in their lifetime. It is not a sexually transmitted infection meanwhile regular sexual activity is a risk factor for candidal vaginitis.

Candidal vaginitis is a result of excessive antibiotic use (which causes an imbalance in natural vaginal flora), pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, weakened immune system, oral contraceptives, hormone therapy and increased oestrogen levels.

The symptoms include itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva, burning sensation and pain during intercourse or urinating, redness and swelling of the vulva, vagina pain, soreness and rash in the vagina, small cuts or tiny cracks in the skin of the vulva and abnormal vaginal discharge.

Laboratory diagnosis is achieved by microscopic examination of high vaginal swabs and urine samples. Fungal culture can also be done to diagnose candida vaginitis.

To prevent candida vaginitis, tight-fitting clothing should be avoided. Also, douching, hot tubes, hot baths, wet clothes and unnecessary antibiotics should be avoided.

Visit MedBioTechLab for high vaginal swab and urine microscopy and culture for early detection of candida vaginitis.

References:

www.cdc.gov

www.mayoclinic.org