Candida Yeast (Monilia) Vaginal Infections
What Is A Candida, Yeast Vaginal Infection?
Candida yeast, also known as Monilia, is a fungus that is responsible for one of the most common types of vaginal infection. This yeast organism is present on our skin and within the vagina and large intestine virtually all the time. Occasionally, however, a reduction in the capacity of the immune system or changes in the body chemistry allows them to multiply and grow out of control.
The Cause
Whenever the body becomes unbalanced either because of infection, antibiotics, diabetes, hormonal imbalance, stress, injury Monilia can emerge and break through the normal barriers that hold it in check. When this happens, Monilia can cause an infection. The areas most commonly involved are the mouth, skin and vagina. The following factors are commonly involved in the emergence of vaginal infections.
Taking birth control pills
Using antibiotics
Douching too frequently
Wearing nylon panties (which trap heat)
Using bubble baths, feminine hygiene sprays, deodorant or scented tampons or pads.
Prolonged or vigorous sex or anal intercourse.
Oral sex (as some individuals have yeast infections in their mouth).
Wiping from back to front after a bowel movement.
Stress, relationship conflicts, abuse, rape, incest or trauma of any kind.
Monila can be transferred through sexual relations of the man has it on the skin of the penis or under the foreskin. Both men and women can carry monilia without knowing it.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include a vaginal discharge that is thick, white and curd like. There may be a musty odor. There is usually intense itching which may be severe enough to interfere with sleep and other normal activities. The opening into the vagina and the labia may be red, dry, irritated, painful and tender to touch. Sexual intercourse is often uncomfortable and may even be painful or even impossible.
Diagnosis
Generally finding redness, along with dry skin and discharge along with the symptom pattern described above is a strong indication that a monilia vaginal infection exists. On speculum examination of the vagina, numerous white patches are seen on the vaginal wall, this suggests Monila. The diagnosis, however, is made by looking at the secretions under the microscope and finding yeast cells, with or without other organisms.
Treatment
There are now a number of over-the-counter products that are available for treating monilia. Generally, I recommend Monostat 7 cream or Monostat suppositories. There are other several other products which work satisfactorily. For those women who have prescription plans medications can also be prescribed. I generally suggest Hydrocortisone 1% cream (which can be purchased over-the-counter) be used for vulvar discomfort. White Distilled Vinegar douches are often helpful to reduce the amount of yeast in the vagina before inserting medicine as well as for relieving discomfort. It is IMPORTANT no matter which medication you use to complete the entire course of treatment.
If you should start your period during the course of treatment, do not stop the treatment program. Continue using these medications even while you are menstruating. To make it easier for you do not use tampons as they may hurt going in and they will absorb substantial amounts of the medication reducing its effectiveness.
For those women who have a sudden onset of symptoms at night where no pharmacy is available try using either white distilled vinegar douche internally or instant oatmeal made with lukewarm water (cool enough not to burn the vulva) will often help to take itching away.
If you feel comfortable enough, and chose to have intercourse with your partner, remember to wear a condom. Remember, men can get Monila infections on the skin of the penis and Monila can be harbored under the foreskin without him even knowing it.
Preventing Recurrent Yeast Vaginal Infections
Wipe after bowel movement from front to back.
Wear cotton underwear. Avoid synthetic fibers. Avoid wearing tight fitting pants.
It is advisable to wear panties on a twenty-four hour a day basis.
Avoid intercourse with a partner who has any sores on his penis, a discharge or a general rash.
Avoid using bubble baths, synthetic
Do not use commercial douches to excess or for vaginal infection without medical advice.
Both rest and a good diet are important to maintaining a strong body and resistance to infection.
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