Treatment of thrush

Thrush (candidiasis) is an inflammatory disease caused by the yeast-like fungus Candida albicans. Almost every woman encounters this condition at least once in her life.

At certain points in a woman's life, the vaginal microflora becomes especially favorable for the growth of Candida albicans.

There are also other causes of thrush:

• weakened immune system;

• certain diseases (e.g., diabetes mellitus);

• inadequate personal hygiene;

• regular use of scented pads, tampons, and toilet paper.

The peak incidence of thrush occurs in the summer period, as the causative agent – Candida fungi – live and reproduce at high temperatures (21–37°C) and high humidity. Swimming in the sea, pool, or any other open water body without changing wet underwear may lead to unpleasant consequences.

You can identify this unpleasant disease by the following signs:

• light, curd-like vaginal discharge;

• increased sensitivity to contact with water and urine;

• rash, redness, itching, and burning in the vaginal area;

• possible swelling of the external genitalia;

• discomfort during and after sexual intercourse.

To diagnose candidiasis, you need to undergo a gynecological examination to identify the causative agent – Candida fungus. The gynecologist takes a vaginal smear and examines it under a microscope. If the diagnosis is confirmed, the patient is advised to take urine and blood tests for sugar levels, since thrush can sometimes be a symptom of diabetes.

Laboratory diagnosis of thrush includes:

• detection of Candida fungi in the smear from the genital mucosa;

• detection of dysbiosis, assessment of the current state of the microflora;

• exclusion of other gynecological diseases.

Treatment of candidiasis at the "Oxford Medical" clinic is carried out in stages. First, a culture is taken to identify the flora and determine sensitivity to antifungal drugs. Based on the results, targeted treatment is carried out.

Then, the causes that triggered the overgrowth of Candida are eliminated by:

• discontinuing antibiotics (if possible);

• restoring normal vaginal microflora and acidity using bacterial preparations;

• eliminating intestinal dysbiosis;

• stimulating the immune system.

Without timely treatment, candidiasis may become recurrent, so the disease should not be ignored.

Thrush is a fairly common disease, so every woman should remember preventive measures.

To prevent thrush, gynecologists recommend:

• maintaining a balanced diet to reduce the risk of dysbiosis;

• practicing regular hygiene using special products that do not disturb the vaginal pH;

• taking antibacterial agents only as prescribed (lactobacillus-based medications are often prescribed afterward to prevent thrush);

• using barrier protection during sexual intercourse;

• wearing comfortable underwear made of natural fabrics and choosing gentle laundry detergents;

• regularly monitoring hormone levels and avoiding relapses if endocrine disorders are present;

• avoiding hypothermia of the genitourinary organs;

• timely treatment of all gynecological and urological diseases.

It is also necessary to visit a gynecologist for preventive check-ups at least once every six months.