Itching in the intimate area, increased discharge or burning when urinating – three out of four women suffer from a fungal infection of the vagina at some point in their lives. In 80 percent of cases, the cause is an infection with the yeast Candida albicans. In a healthy vagina, the pH value is between 3.5 and 4.5. The reason for this is that lactobacilli, which occur in large numbers, produce lactic acid, which makes the vaginal environment “acidic” and thus keeps potential germs at bay. This is why only a few fungi are found in the natural vaginal flora. However, if the vaginal flora becomes unbalanced due to internal or external factors, fungi can multiply and, as a result, cause signs of disease.
Symptoms of vaginal fungus
Normal discharge is transparent to milky white and almost odorless. Its quantity and texture vary depending on the phase of the cycle: just before ovulation, it is thinner, glassier and “spinnable” (it can be drawn out into a thread); in the later phase of the cycle, it tends to be whitish and more viscous. If the color, texture or odor change significantly, the cause must be found out and, if necessary, treated with medication. Characteristic of a fungal infection (candidiasis) is a whitish, greasy to crumbly discharge that smells like yeast dough. Common symptoms associated with vaginal fungus also include itching and a burning sensation in the vagina. Pain during sexual intercourse is also possible.
Infection by fungi or bacteria? Discharge as a clue
Vaginal infections are caused by bacteria in 60 percent of all cases. Itching and burning can be signs of both fungal and bacterial infection. Increased discharge with a fishy odor is indicative of a bacterial infection (bacterial vaginosis). In contrast, in the case of a fungal infection, the discharge is yellowish or white, initially approximately greasy, later crumbly like curd and odorless or only yeasty smelling. Absolute certainty as to which pathogen is responsible for the vaginal infection can be obtained by the doctor with a smear test.
What does vaginal fungus look like?
With vaginal fungus, swelling and redness may appear around the labia. The whitish crumbly discharge may also settle as a coating on the mucous membranes of the vagina. Small blisters may also be seen at the edges of the fungal infection.
Causes: How does vaginal thrush develop?
Candida albicans is a so-called facultative pathogenic germ. This means it is part of the normal skin and gastrointestinal flora, but can cause infections under certain circumstances. Possible causes include:
- Stress
- Excessive genital hygiene
- An altered hormonal balance (pregnancy, menopause, taking birth control pills).
- Menstruation (due to the alkaline concentrated blood).
- Sperm (sperm fluid is alkaline).
All this can upset the delicate vaginal environment, allowing the fungi to multiply. Damage to the lactic acid bacteria after antibiotic or cortisone treatment is also more common; less often, the pathogens are transmitted during sexual intercourse. Vaginal fungus is extremely contagious and can be transmitted through close physical contact or contaminated surfaces, for example in the bathroom. In men, it can cause penile fungus.
Risk factors for vaginal fungus
Several factors can contribute to vaginal fungus developing:
- Fungi like it moist and warm – therefore: avoid too tight or damp clothing! Tight jeans, underwear made of synthetic fibers or a wet swimsuit promote infections. Better to wear air-permeable clothing and change wet clothes quickly.
- Proper “wiping technique” when visiting the toilet (always away from the vagina in the direction of the anus) to avoid self-infection.
- Perfumed products, alkaline soaps or excessive hygiene can also promote infection with Candida albicans. Better to use pH-neutral preparations for cleaning.
In addition, a change in diet can be useful. Unsweetened natural yogurt improves the intestinal and vaginal environment, a balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and whole grains strengthens the immune system. These simple home remedies help prevent vaginal fungus.
Treatment of vaginal fungus
In the following cases, a doctor should be consulted: If
- An infection occurs for the first time
- after three days of therapy no improvement occurs
- An infection recurs repeatedly (more than four times during the last 12 months)
- Young girls or pregnant women are affected
- The discharge is bloody, yellow, greenish or foul-smelling or additional complaints occur, for example, abdominal pain or fever
Abdominal pain is rather unusual in vaginal fungus and can also be an indication of bacterial vaginosis, for example.
Medication against vaginal fungus
Effective medications – known as antifungals – are available to treat fungal infections. Vaginal fungus is treated with cream, suppositories or vaginal tablets. to these preparations must be applied for the prescribed duration and in the right way. For example, the suppositories should be inserted using the applicator provided and the perineum and anus should not be left out when applying the ointment. However, it is also very important to pay attention to proper hygiene during an infection. Special care products are available to support the acidic pH in the intimate area.
