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Candidiasis- Vaginal Yeast Infections
This vaginal infection is a fungal disorder, more commonly
called Thrush. It is caused by an excess amount of the
yeast-like fungus, Candida albicans, which thrive in warm, moist
places such as the skin and vulva, and in the mouth, bowel and
vagina. This fungus is usually quite harmless, however it may
sometimes set up an irritating infection which is characterized
by painful white patches in the mouth or vagina.
Thrush is particularly prevalent in babies, elderly people,
diabetics, fat people, pregnant women and those taking
antibiotics. It is also likely to strike when the immune system
is not functioning properly - for example, in people with
leukemia, AIDS, or those using steroid drugs. Other predisposing
factors include, cuts and abrasions to the genital area, poor
hygiene and the wearing of dirty underwear, postmenopausal
thinning of the vaginal wall and excessive douching.
Thrush infection of the vulva and vagina is common, recurrent
and troublesome, resulting in itching, soreness and a thick,
white vaginal discharge. Some women detect a yeasty odour,
similar to that of fermenting dough. Urination is often also
painful and discomfort during sex is quite common. Although it
is not necessarily sexually transmitted, a sexual partner may
develop the infection - characterized by a rash and redness and
soreness on the end of the penis and under the foreskin.
Preventing yeast infections
- Opt for cotton underwear and loose clothing - underwear
made from synthetic fibres, tights and tight jeans will
aggravate the condition by limiting air circulation.
- Strict hygiene measures should be followed - daily washing
of the genital area with mild, unperfumed soap is vital,
especially after intercourse.
- Avoid excessively long, hot baths, especially those
containing bubble bath, or other perfumed additives.
- Practice wiping from front to back - this will prevent
faecal contamination.
- Avoid "feminine deodorant" products, perfumed soaps and
bath additives.
- Change out of wet costumes immediately after swimming.
- Cut down on your antibiotic consumption - opting for
herbal alternatives wherever possible.
- Do not use vaginal douches, unless medically recommended.
- Ensure that all objects entering the vagina (tampons,
diaphragms and penises) are scrupulously clean.
- Recurrent vaginal infection is common, particularly if a
sexual partner is harbouring the infection on his penis - he
too must be treated.
Treating yeast infections
- Live natural yogurt applied to a sanitary pad or frequent
salt washes (1 tablespoon salt to 600ml water) are recommended
for vaginal thrush.
- Dampen the tip of a tampon, add three to four drops of tea
tree oil and insert for one to two hours.
- Betadine douches are sometimes recommended for mild cases.
- Anti-fungals such as, Daktarin (miconazole), Canesten (clotrimazole)
and Terazol, in the form of tablets, creams or pessaries, halt
yeast growth.
- Sexual intercourse is discouraged during treatment.
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