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Candidiasis
WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Also known as a yeast infection, vaginal candidiasis
(can-dih-DYE-ah-sis) is a very common infection of the vagina
that causes discharge, itching, and swelling. It is not serious
and, with treatment, usually goes away in about 2 weeks. Many
women get more repeated yeast infections.
Causes
The infection is caused by a type
of yeast or fungus called Candida. This yeast lives in your
mouth, vagina, and rectum all the time; but it sometimes gets
out of control and causes an infection. Women who are pregnant
or have trouble with their blood sugar (diabetes) can easily
get a yeast infection. Medicines like birth control pills or
antibiotics also make the infection more likely.
Signs/Symptoms
The main symptom is a thick white
discharge from the vagina that may look like cottage cheese and
may have a bad smell. Swelling, redness, and itching around the
vagina are common. Some women may feel burning when they
urinate.
Care
Your doctor will examine you and
take a sample of the discharge. You will probably need medicine
to kill the yeast. If you are given yeast medicine, use it
until it is all gone, even if the condition improves. The
medicine is usually given as a cream or suppository that you
put inside your vagina.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
Always use your medicine as directed by your doctor.
If you feel it is not helping, call your doctor. Do not
quit using it on your own.
-
If you are using medicine to kill the yeast, it may
be messy. Use a thin sanitary pad to protect your
clothing.
-
Wear clean cotton underpants or pantyhose with a
cotton crotch.
-
Keep the vaginal area clean and
dry.
-
Don't have sex until your symptoms are
gone.
-
Take showers instead of tub baths. Use plain,
unscented soap.
-
Don't use feminine hygiene sprays or powders or
bubble bath. Don't douche during treatment unless your
doctor tells you to. After the infection is cleared up,
don't douche more often than once a
week.
-
To help keep from getting more yeast infections,
don't eat a lot of sweets or drink alcohol. Don't take
antibiotic medicine unless you have to. Wipe from front to
back after urinating or having a bowel
movement.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
Your symptoms get worse or last more than a few
days.
-
You have vaginal bleeding that is not during your
period.
-
Your symptoms come back after
treatment.
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