Frequently asked questions about vaginal yeast infections

Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Op. Dr. Sedat Melikli provided information about vaginal yeast infections. Stating that the most common symptoms of a yeast infection are itching or irritation in the genital area and around the vagina, pain and burning during urination, pain during sexual intercourse, and redness and edema in the tissues of the genital area, Op. Dr. Melikli said, "There is usually a white, clumpy (curd-like) or watery vaginal discharge."

ANTIBIOTIC USE IS RISKY

Stating that the cause of a yeast infection is considered to be the abnormal overgrowth of C. albicans or other types of fungi that normally live in the vagina, Op. Dr. Sedat Melikli said, "The use of antibiotics, birth control pills, vaginal sponges, diaphragms, and intrauterine devices (IUDs) pose a risk for yeast infections. Apart from this, pregnancy, diabetes, a weakened immune system, and sexual activity are among the risk factors for vaginal yeast infections," he added.

Stating that a doctor must examine the patient's vulva and vagina to diagnose a yeast infection, Op. Dr. Melikli said, "It is not recommended to start home treatment until it is confirmed that you have a yeast infection."

TREATMENT WITH CREAMS AND TABLETS IS POSSIBLE

Stating that oral or vaginal tablets and vaginal creams are used for treatment, Op. Dr. Melikli said, "Vaginal cream or tablets are applied into the vagina or to the vulva at bedtime. 1, 3, and 7-day treatments are available. The length of the treatment depends on the severity of the infection."

Stating that most yeast infections disappear a few days after starting treatment, Op. Dr. Melikli said, "However, the feeling of itching and irritation may continue even after the infection has passed. If you do not recover within a few days after finishing the treatment, contact your doctor."

VAGINAL CULTURE SHOULD BE TAKEN

Stating that 5 to 9 percent of women develop recurrent yeast infections three or more times a year, Op. Dr. Melikli said, "Most vaginal yeast infections are caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. Persistent or recurrent infections may be due to an infection with one of the less common Candida species, such as Candida glabrata or Candida krusei. Vaginal cultures should be taken in women with recurrent or persistent symptoms."

NOT SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED

Emphasizing that a treatment plan in the form of weekly oral antifungal medication for 6 months is usually applied to women with recurrent symptoms, Op. Dr. Melikli said, "A vaginal yeast infection is not a sexually transmitted infection, but the infection can rarely pass from one partner to another. Routine treatment is not recommended if the sexual partner has no complaints."

WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE TAKEN

Stating that adding antifungal medication to long-term antibiotic treatment, keeping blood sugar within normal limits, and adjusting the dosage of immunosuppressive drugs are precautions that can be taken, Op. Dr. Melikli said, "Vaginal yeast infections during pregnancy occur due to differences in the hormonal order during pregnancy. They usually return to normal in the postpartum period."

PROPER HYGIENE IS IMPORTANT

Emphasizing that to prevent genital yeast infections, it is recommended to wash the genital area with little soap and keep it clean and dry without using chemical cleaning products, Op. Dr. Melikli said, "Colored and scented toilet paper and washing gels used can cause irritation and allergic reactions in your private area. If there is no special situation, cleaning with water once a day is sufficient. We do not recommend washing the inside of the vagina except for medical indications. Washing the genital area and vagina repeatedly and using loofah-like products causes irritation and makes you susceptible to infections. It is recommended to use silk or cotton underwear that is not too tight and to change them at regular intervals. We do not recommend the use of daily panty liners because they create a moist and warm environment for infections. Finally, I would like to underline again that treatment for a yeast infection should not be started before an examination. Because this can cause recurrent yeast infections that require long-term treatment, such as 6 months. If you have the mentioned complaints, consult your doctor," he concluded.