Why does thrush often appear in women? Why does thrush appear? Pregnancy and fungal infection

Thrush or candidiasis in women- a disease caused by fungi of the genus Candida. If these microorganisms have developed on the mucous membrane of the vagina and external genitalia, then they speak of vaginal candidiasis.

This disease affects not only women of childbearing age who are sexually active, but also young girls and those who have reached advanced years. The reason is simple: candidiasis occurs not only after contact with a sick sexual partner. It can be a consequence of the active reproduction of Candida, which were previously part of the normal microflora.

With candidiasis, women complain of copious curdled vaginal discharge and itching in the genital area. According to statistics, 70% of gynecologist patients who come with such problems are diagnosed with thrush. This disease is not a sexually transmitted disease. Compared to them, it is less dangerous and much easier to treat.

The disease affects women on all continents, regardless of age and wealth. Moreover, the incidence is higher in hot countries. Statistics show that city residents suffer more from candidiasis. 30-40% of women experienced thrush during pregnancy. During this period, the risk of getting sick increases 2-3 times.

75% of the fair sex have suffered from candidiasis, and the majority more than once. Since this disease has the unpleasant property of returning. So in 5% the diagnosis is recurrent candidiasis. In this case, exacerbations occur 4 or more times a year.

In recent years, the number of cases of thrush has been steadily increasing. This is due to uncontrolled use of antibiotics and a decrease in the level of immunity. If thrush is not treated in time, then from a minor ailment it can turn into a serious problem when fungi affect most internal organs.

Composition of normal microflora of the vagina and external genitalia

The genitals of girls begin to be colonized by microorganisms within a few hours after birth. This is the moment when microflora begins to form. From the first day of life, they constantly live in the vagina and external genitalia. different kinds bacteria There are more than 60 of them. Usually these microorganisms do not cause diseases and do not harm the body.

This set varies depending on the woman’s age, phase of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and the presence of a permanent sexual partner. From time to time, pathogenic bacteria enter the vagina. But if their number is not large, then representatives of the microflora and immune cells destroy these microorganisms.

The vagina contains:

• lactobacilli
• bifidobacteria
• enterococci
• clostridia
• coagulase-negative staphylococci
• coliform bacteria
• candida

The majority of microorganisms in the body of a healthy woman are various types of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria - up to 90%. They provide an optimal pH level of up to 3.8–4.5 (in adult women). If their number decreases, then the vaginal environment becomes slightly alkaline and the pH exceeds 6. This leads to the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria and the development of inflammatory processes.

In almost 80% of cases, Candida is present in a woman’s microflora. They are represented by single inactive round cells and do not form mycelial threads (pseudo-mycelium).

Normal microflora in a woman’s body performs important functions:

• Releases beneficial enzymes that provide the necessary acidity
• Promotes the formation of vitamins
• Maintains the strength of local immunity
• Prevents the penetration of foreign bacteria that can cause disease.

The vaginal microflora has a balanced composition. At the same time, some bacteria regulate the number of others. This is how lactic acid bacteria produce acid, which inhibits the excessive proliferation of Candida. Therefore, normally, fungi found in the vagina do not cause thrush.

Causes of thrush

Why thrush occurs is one of the most common questions among women. After all, this problem is very common. Unpleasant sensations arise at the most inopportune moment. This fungal disease nullifies intimate relationships and spoils everyday life.

You can become infected with candidiasis from a sexual partner. Especially if a man has obvious signs of this disease or is a carrier of fungi. However, this reason is far from the most common. Much more often, thrush occurs as a consequence of decreased immunity and disruption of the natural balance of the microflora of the genital organs.

There are many factors that provoke the development of vaginal candidiasis in women.

• Decreased body defenses as a result chronic diseases or after previous infections.
• Hormonal shifts during pregnancy and before menstruation.
• Changes in hormonal levels during menopause.
• Application hormonal contraceptives .
• Long-term use of antibiotics, corticosteroids and cytostatic drugs.
• Intestinal dysbiosis, and fungi can be introduced into the vagina.
• Climate change, which entails adaptation to new conditions and water composition.
• Using intimate hygiene products: intimate gels, soaps, shower gels containing a lot of alkali and fragrances.
• Using panty liners. They interfere with air access to the genitals, increasing humidity.
• Deodorized tampons and pads cause allergic reactions and disrupt the condition of the mucous membrane.
• Wearing underwear made of synthetic fabrics, narrow and tight. The most common culprit for thrush is thongs.
• Food rich in confectionery products and carbohydrate dishes, strong coffee, carbonated drinks, yeast baked goods, spicy and fatty delicacies, ketchup and mayonnaise.
• Avitaminosis entails a decrease in the body's resistance and a deterioration in the condition of the skin and mucous membranes.
• Obesity- favorable conditions for the proliferation of fungi are created in the folds of the body.
• Metabolic disorders. A striking example is diabetes mellitus. It not only weakens local immunity, but also increases the amount of carbohydrates in cells, which is a good breeding ground for microorganisms.
• Smoking causes vasospasm and impairs blood circulation, including in the genitals.
• Sexual intercourse with a dry vagina and other actions that can lead to microtraumas on the genital mucosa. Through them, Candida can penetrate deep into the tissues.
• Chronic stress, severe mental and physical stress, overwork, lack of sleep.

The action of these factors leads to a decrease in the number of lactobacilli that create a protective microfilm. They produce less lactic acid, and vaginal alkaline environment. Fungi and other bacteria penetrate the cells of the mucous membrane and thin skin of the external genitalia. There they begin to actively reproduce, feeding on glycogen and destroying host cells. If left untreated, the inflammatory process gradually spreads.

What are the symptoms of thrush and what are they associated with?

1. Pain during intercourse.
   Most often, Candida multiplication begins on the vaginal mucosa. They destroy the upper epithelial cells, gradually affecting the deeper layers. In this case, tiny lesions are formed that resemble ulcers. The mucous membrane of the vaginal walls becomes inflamed and painful. Therefore, during sexual intercourse, a woman experiences pain and other discomfort.


2. Swelling of the genital organs.
   Inflammation causes the vaginal walls to swell. This occurs due to the fact that small vessels on the surface of the mucosa dilate. In this way, the body tries to eliminate the toxins released by Candida. Blood circulation increases, and the tissue of the genital organs is saturated with fluid released through the walls of the capillaries.


3. White coating and curdled discharge.
   Gradually, the number of fungi increases and the colonies grow. They look like a whitish coating on the genitals. An inflammatory process begins, which is accompanied by copious vaginal discharge. They look like white curdled masses or curdled milk. These are mainly fungal mycelium, leukocytes and damaged mucosal cells.


4. Itching and burning.
   Candida feeds on glycogen stores in cells. When this carbohydrate is broken down, acids are formed. They cause itching and burning in the vagina and irritate the skin of the genital organs damaged by Candida, while the woman feels severe discomfort. These symptoms are worse after urinating or washing. Therefore, each time the skin in this area must be dried. It is advisable to use soft paper towels to avoid further injury.


5. Thrush rash.
   The inflammatory process with thrush also extends to the vestibule of the vagina, labia majora and labia minora. On the skin of the genital organs, the epidermis stratifies as a result of the activity of fungi, and small burgundy pimples-vesicles with liquid contents inside - vesicles - are formed. After a day or two, they burst and small erosions and crusts form in their place.


6. Spread to nearby skin areas.
   Signs of candidiasis: redness, small rash, itching, formation of white plaque can also occur in the perineum, on the skin of the intergluteal and inguinal folds. More often, this form of the disease occurs in women who have excess weight.


7. Deterioration of general condition.
   Itching, constant discomfort and unpleasant sensations cause nervousness, attacks of bad mood, and sleep disturbances. The latter is due to the fact that the burning sensation intensifies at night. Unpleasant symptoms increase after long walking and during menstruation.


8. Urethritis and cystitis with thrush.
   Frequent urination and the appearance of pain indicate that Candida has penetrated the urinary system and caused urethritis and cystitis. Another sign that the inflammatory process has spread to other organs is the appearance of aching pain in the lower abdomen. This may result in an increase in temperature. If you notice such symptoms, be sure to consult a doctor and do not self-medicate.

Diagnosis of thrush

If you notice signs of thrush, contact your gynecologist. This is especially necessary to do if the appearance of unpleasant sensations was preceded by unprotected sexual contact. The fact is that the symptoms of candidiasis are in many ways similar to the manifestations dangerous infections sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, mucous membranes damaged by fungi become vulnerable to pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, taking antifungal drugs alone is not enough. A visit to a specialist is mandatory if signs of thrush appear again soon after treatment. Otherwise, the disease may become chronic.

In order to clarify the diagnosis, the doctor takes a smear of the contents of the vagina. Flora smear (gynecological smear, bacterioscopy) necessary to determine the composition of the microflora and the presence of pathogenic bacteria. Ideally, the analysis should contain 90% lactobacilli. Gardnerella and Candida may be present in single copies. But microorganisms such as Trichomonas should not exist.

In the laboratory, a sample of vaginal contents is examined under a microscope and the number of immune cells, leukocytes and bacteria, and the presence of Candida pseudomycelium are determined.

In some cases, they carry out microflora seeding on special nutrient media. As a result, it is possible to determine which of the 150 species of Candida caused inflammation, and to which medications these microorganisms are most sensitive. This must be done if a woman suffers from recurrent thrush.

Also informative method The study is a colcoscopy - examination of the vagina with a special device called a colcoscope. The doctor applies Lugol's solution to the vaginal walls. If after this small inclusions in the form of semolina are clearly visible on them, then this indicates the presence of thrush.

If necessary, the doctor prescribes an additional test for sexually transmitted infections, a stool test for dysbacteriosis, an immunogram, an analysis aimed at identifying diabetes mellitus - a glycemic profile with a load.

If the gynecologist believes that thrush is caused by chronic diseases, he will advise you to consult a therapist, endocrinologist or immunologist.

How to treat thrush

Local therapy infectious and inflammatory diseases of the female reproductive system not only allows you to destroy pathogenic microorganisms, but also inevitably leads to imbalance beneficial microflora vagina and decreased local immunity. If you do not quickly restore the lactoflora, activation of opportunistic microflora is possible, which will lead to an exacerbation of thrush or bacterial infections. For the same reason, antifungal therapy for vaginal candidiasis may not be effective enough. Therefore, it is important, after the first stage of treatment aimed at eliminating the infection, to carry out the second stage - to restore the balance of beneficial microflora with the help of Lactozhinal capsules. This is the only one registered in the territory Russian Federation tribiotic drug. Laktozhinal quickly restores the pH and microflora of the vagina and protects for a long time from re-exacerbation of bacterial vaginosis and thrush. Two-step therapy in Lately has become the gold standard for the treatment of conditions accompanied by pathological discharge. Many experts are confident that only this method can provide pronounced and long-term healing effect, strengthen local immunity, which serves as a prevention of subsequent exacerbations.

How to treat thrush during pregnancy?

Treatment must be carried out under the supervision of a gynecologist. He prescribes drugs that are non-toxic, are little absorbed into the blood, do not harm the child and have maximum therapeutic effect. Almost always this local treatment– Pimafucin suppositories. The drug causes destruction of the walls of the fungal cell and leads to its death. This remedy can be used both in the first weeks and immediately before childbirth.

Another drug approved during pregnancy is Terzhinan. It contains the antifungal antibiotic Nystatin. But besides this, it contains substances that fight bacteria. Treatment can be supplemented with a complex of vitamins to support immunity.

Drugs in tablets that have a systemic effect on the body are usually not used.

During pregnancy, it is better to refrain from douching. With the pressure of fluid, you can introduce an infection into the uterine cavity. This procedure can only be prescribed by a doctor in exceptional cases. Instead of douching, it is better to use weak soda solution, decoctions of chamomile and calendula for washing.

What suppositories are effective for treating thrush?

Suppositories and vaginal tablets for the treatment of thrush are local treatments. They are prescribed when the lesions are not deep and no complications have arisen. Here is a list of the most effective remedies for thrush. The active substance is indicated in the arms.

• Pimafucin (Natamycin) is the least toxic. Can be used during pregnancy. Causes the death of various fungi. Candles are used before bedtime. They quickly relieve symptoms, but treatment must be continued for another 2-3 days after improvement. On average, the course is 3-6 days.


• Antifungol, Yenamazole 100, Candibene, Kanesten, Kanizon, (Clotrimazole) its components dissolve the Candida shell. Suppositories or vaginal tablets are inserted into the vagina once a day before bedtime. The course of treatment is 6-7 days.


• Gyno-Travogen Ovulum (Isoconazole) disrupts the permeability of the cell wall of fungi. Has antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects. Quickly eliminates itching. Used to treat forms of fungi that are resistant to other agents. A suppository (candle) is inserted deep into the vagina before bedtime once a day. The course of treatment is 3 days.


• Ginezol 7, Gino-Daktarin, Klion-D 100 (Miconazole) - destroys fungi and some bacteria. Treatment lasts 14 days. One suppository deep into the vagina before bed.


• Polygynax, Terzhinan (Nystatin) - these vaginal tablets must be moistened before insertion into the vagina.

  Use one before bed for 10 days.

  It should be noted that minor itching and other discomfort may occur for two weeks after treatment.

Which tablets are effective in treating thrush?

Treating thrush with tablets has several advantages. You will get rid of unpleasant symptoms in 1-3 days. While treatment with suppositories, vaginal tablets and gels takes an average of a week. Taking the tablets provides comprehensive treatment of fungi in all organs. Therefore, the likelihood of thrush recurring is reduced. If the course of the disease is mild, then one drug will be enough. Otherwise, you will need to take several antifungal agents different groups. To enhance the effect and relieve itching, local treatment in the form of creams or suppositories is additionally prescribed.

There are several types of drugs designed to combat fungi. They have different mechanisms actions, but all of them lead to the death of Candida and the destruction of their mycelium.

Here is a list of substances that destroy fungi and drugs based on them:

• Fluconazole (Diflucan, Mikosist, Medoflucon, Forkan) – a single dose of 150 mg of the drug is sufficient.


• Ketoconazole (Ketoconazole, Nizoral) – 1-2 tablets per day. Course 5 days.


• Natamycin (Pimafucin) – 1 tablet for 3-5 days.


• Miconazole (Miconazole, Micatin, Funginazole) - take 1 tablet for three days.


• Nystatin (Nystatin) – 1 tablet 4 times a day. The treatment period is 10-14 days.

These drugs should not be taken by pregnant women to treat thrush. To prevent exacerbations of candidiasis in the future, it is advisable that both sexual partners undergo treatment.

How to treat thrush at home?

Treatment for thrush almost always occurs at home. Ideally, it should be done after consultation with a doctor. Traditional medicine has many benefits. They don't provide side effects, non-toxic and completely safe. However, in terms of speed of treatment, they are significantly inferior to drugs.

• To relieve itching and prevent bacterial complications, wash and douche with a soda solution. In 0.5 liters of warm boiled water you need to dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Repeat the procedure 2 times a day.


• This composition has a strong antifungal and anti-inflammatory effect. Take 5 tablespoons of a mixture of equal parts of oak bark, chamomile, nettle and knotweed. Pour in a liter of water and bring to a boil. Cool, strain and use for douching in the morning and evening.


• Tampons with sea buckthorn oil heal erosions on the mucous membrane and relieve inflammation. Soak a tampon made of several layers of gauze with pharmaceutical sea buckthorn oil and insert it overnight.


• Garlic oil tampons are effective in getting rid of Candida. To prepare the product, you need to peel and chop 5 large cloves of garlic and pour in 50 ml of refined vegetable oil. Leave for 3 hours, stir and strain. Soak a tampon with this product and insert it into the vagina for 2 hours. If a strong burning sensation occurs, the procedure must be stopped. Garlic phytoncides are a very powerful remedy. Therefore, it is recommended to eat several cloves daily.


• To restore normal vaginal microflora, tampons with bifidumbacterin are used. Dilute an ampoule of this drug in a tablespoon of refined vegetable oil. Soak a tampon and insert it into the vagina for 1 hour. American doctors recommend lubricating the mucous membrane with pure natural yogurt without flavoring additives. This may be a pure culture of lactobacilli, which are sold in pharmacies.


• If you are not allergic to honey, then you can dilute it with water in a ratio of 1:10 and lubricate the affected areas of the mucous membrane.


• To wash, use tar soap or brown household. Its components prevent the proliferation of microorganisms.

To ensure that thrush does not return after some time, it is necessary to continue the procedures for another 2-3 days after the symptoms of the disease disappear. Folk remedies are best used as an addition to treatment prescribed by a doctor.

What medications should be used to treat thrush?

To get rid of thrush forever, one drug is not enough. It is necessary to reduce the number of Candida to normal indicators, cure damage to the mucous membrane that has arisen as a result of the disease. After this, you can begin to normalize the microflora in order to increase the number of lactobacilli. You also need to strengthen your immune system.

Therefore for complex treatment thrush, various groups of drugs are used.

Antifungal agents (antimycotics) destroy the bulk of Candida. These are products based on Fluconazole, Clotrimazole, Iconazole, Ketoconazole. In the form of suppositories and creams for local treatment of the genital organs, as well as in the form of tablets and capsules for oral administration.

Antibiotics for the treatment of thrush They fight not only Candida, but also some bacteria that join during candidiasis. They are also produced for local and general treatment.

• Antibiotics from the macrolide group: Pimafucin, Natamycin


• Triazole antibiotics: Flucostat, Mikosist


• Polyene antibiotics: Nystatin, Levorin

Combination drugs are products that contain several types of antibiotics. It also contains the hormone prednisolone for quick relief from itching, pain and inflammation. These are products in the form of ointments and vaginal tablets Terzhinan, Neo-Penotran, Polygynax.

Probiotics normalize the composition of the vaginal microflora and acidity level. They also often contain components for restoring the vaginal mucosa and external genitalia. These are vaginal tablets and suppositories with a complex of lacto and bifidobacteria: Gynoflor, Ecofemin, Vaginorm S and Vagilak, as well as Bifidumbacterin, Lactobacterin.

Immunomodulators or immunocorrectors prescribed to strengthen general immunity. Its task is to restrain the growth of Candida after treatment is discontinued. These are Likopid oral tablets and Viferon and Methyluracil rectal suppositories.

Is Fluconazole effective for thrush?

Modern antifungal drugs can get rid of thrush in one day. In most cases, it is enough to take one capsule of Fluconazole 150 mg to destroy the fungal infection. If a woman suffers from recurrent thrush, then she will need to take one capsule once a week or a month for 6-12 months. The doctor selects the regimen individually.

For a quick recovery, it is advisable to combine systemic treatment with Fluconazole in capsules and local treatment: suppositories with antifungal and anti-inflammatory drugs, the use of creams and douching.

Various pharmaceutical companies produce drugs based on Fluconazole: Diflazon, Diflucan, Mikosist, Medoflucon, Forkan, Flucostat. The active ingredient of these medicines violates metabolic processes in fungi, which leads to their death. The medicine is well absorbed into the blood and reaches all organs, where it accumulates in the required quantity. Thus, these drugs rid the body of any diseases caused by fungi.

With vaginal candidiasis, after taking Fluconazole, a woman usually notices a significant improvement within a day. But complete recovery occurs after 3-4 days. If, a week after taking the drug, you continue to be bothered by symptoms of thrush, you should consult your doctor again.

There are several reasons why taking Fluconazole capsule did not bring results. This can happen if fungi have developed resistance and are not sensitive to it. Other medications may reduce the effectiveness of Fluconazole when taken simultaneously. For example, the antibiotic Rifampicin. In some cases, a single dose is not enough. You need to take one more capsule on the third and seventh day of treatment.
It must be remembered that Fluconazole has contraindications and serious side effects. Therefore, it must be taken on the recommendation of a doctor.

What traditional methods of treating thrush exist?

To treat thrush in women, traditional medicine recipes are successfully used. They have significantly fewer contraindications and side effects than traditional medicines. However, even natural ingredients can cause allergic reaction. And douching is generally not recommended for pregnant women. Please take this into account during treatment.

St. John's wort is an excellent remedy against thrush due to astringent, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. High content phytoncides, guarantees getting rid of bacteria and fungi of the genus Candida. St. John's wort decoction is used for douching. To prepare it, take 3-4 tablespoons of the herb and pour 1.5-2 liters of boiling water. After this, let the medicine brew for 1.5-2 hours. You need to douche with this infusion 4 times a day.

Has long been used infusion of sage and raspberry leaves rich in estrogens and anti-inflammatory components.

Directions for use: mix sage with raspberry leaves in equal proportions - 2 tablespoons of each herb. Then pour the mixture with a liter of boiling water. We wait 20 minutes for brewing, then strain the infusion through a sieve or cheesecloth. Let the product cool to room temperature. It is used for douching 2-3 times a day. For greater effectiveness, you can add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar per liter of product.

Oak bark – effective method get rid of thrush. The decoction has a strong antimicrobial effect, soothes inflammatory processes and protects the genital mucosa from deep damage. To prepare the decoction, you need to take three parts of oak bark, one part of string and one part of lavender. To prepare, pour one tablespoon of herbal mixture into 150 ml of boiling water. Let it brew for 2 hours. After this, you need to strain the broth and add the same amount of boiling water to it. Douche with this mixture 2 times a day.

Cranberry and viburnum– universal assistants in the fight against thrush. The polyphenols contained in these berries stop the growth of yeast fungi, alleviate symptoms and strengthen the body. Juices from cranberries or viburnum will prevent the development of thrush. But the main requirement is to drink only unsweetened juice. The presence of sugar has the opposite effect and the fungus develops even more intensely.

You need to drink juices 3 times a day, 2 tablespoons. You can add the same amount of water. For douching, take 1 tablespoon of strained juice per glass of warm water.

Answers to frequently asked questions:

Is it possible to get pregnant with thrush?

A woman who has a flare-up of thrush may become pregnant. The processes that occur during candidiasis and the acid that fungi secrete can slightly impair the viability of sperm. But if their number is large and their mobility is high, then fertilization will still occur.

It is desirable that the woman is absolutely healthy at the time of pregnancy. But still, this disease does not pose a serious danger to the fetus. Unlike, for example, rubella.

Is it possible to have sex with thrush?

It is not recommended to have sex if you have thrush. This is due to the fact that with vaginal candidiasis, the mucous membrane becomes swollen and covered with erosions. During sex, she gets injured. This promotes the penetration of fungi into deeper layers and the addition of a bacterial infection. In addition, during and after sexual intercourse, pain and itching in the genitals intensify.

Is it possible to douche if you have thrush?

You can douche for thrush. This helps cleanse the vaginal walls of fungi and cheesy plaque. Various medications can help relieve itching and inflammation. Most often, a weak soda solution, chamomile and calendula decoctions are used.

Is it possible to use kefir or cottage cheese if you have thrush?

Kefir or cottage cheese contain a large number of lactic acid bacteria, which normally constitute the main part of the microflora. With thrush, their number decreases sharply. Therefore, eating such foods restores balance and will be very beneficial. It is necessary to include fresh kefir and natural yoghurts with a short shelf life and minimal sugar content in your diet. They bring the most benefit.

Prevention of thrush in women

Prevention of candidiasis is based on general strengthening immunity. Strict personal hygiene is also necessary, the meaning of which is to maintain normal vaginal microflora. Gynecologists recommend using intimate gels with high acidity levels, which contain lactic acid and a minimal amount of fragrances, for washing.

Wear underwear made from natural fabrics that allow your skin to breathe. But tight skinny jeans provoke the development of the disease.

You can become infected with thrush in swimming pools and bathhouses, where there are many people and the skin is exposed to chlorine. If you notice such a tendency, then avoid visiting these places.

Consume more vegetables, fruits and fermented milk products. This will help keep the number of lactobacilli normal. Avoid uncontrolled use of medications and do not forget about preventive visits to the doctor.

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. BEFORE USE, CONSULT A DOCTOR.

Vaginal candidiasis is familiar to most women under the simple name thrush. This disease occurs when fungi of the genus Candida actively multiply in the vaginal mucosa when favorable factors occur.

Chronic diseases

Decreased immunity due to chronic somatic diseases — chronic pyelonephritis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, HIV infection.

Poisoning

A decrease in the body's defenses is provoked by food poisoning, severe injuries, hypovitaminosis, burns and other serious diseases.

Nutrition

With anorexia, unbalanced low-calorie diet, with certain types of diet. Abuse of sweets, confectionery, and baked goods also contributes to the development of thrush. It is believed that with abundant consumption of carrots, vegetables, fruits, and limiting easily digestible carbohydrates in the diet, you can get rid of a mild degree of vaginal candidiasis.

Use of antibiotics

This is the most common and obvious cause of thrush in women, especially long-term or frequent treatment various antimicrobial agents (). Since the reservoir of Candida fungi is the intestines, when caused by taking antibiotics, as a rule, the fungi spread to other organs, primarily to the vagina.

Wet laundry

In some women, the cause of thrush may be wearing wet underwear, that is, swimming in open water, in pools, since a humid environment promotes the activity of Candida fungi.

• Thrush frequent companion pregnancy.
• Prolonged emotional stress stressful situations.
• Abrupt climate change.
• Use of hormonal contraception.

Synthetic underwear

Also, the cause of thrush can be a passion for synthetic underwear, especially wearing thong panties, jumpsuits, and tight tights. In such underwear, heat exchange is disrupted, a closed space like a vacuum is formed, the temperature in the perineal area rises and humidity increases, which promotes the proliferation of fungi.

For the same reason, thrush is more often diagnosed in the hot season, especially in overweight women (overheating).

Local factors

• Application of colored flavored toilet paper and deodorized pads.
• The use of various antibacterial intimate gels, soaps, and vaginal sprays for intimate hygiene reduces local immunity and causes thrush.
• Women who have the habit of frequently douching with various means do not suspect that they have a detrimental effect on the vaginal microflora. not acceptable.
• Violation of personal hygiene during trips, long journeys in the absence normal conditions for taking a shower.
• Rarely changing tampons during menstruation and using panty liners can cause vaginal dysbiosis.
• Use of local contraceptives.
• And, of course, hypothermia weakens the body’s defenses, which leads to the activation of yeast fungi.

Girls who are not sexually active may also develop thrush due to poor personal hygiene, taking antibiotics, hormonal imbalances,

If itching, burning, or discomfort occurs during and after sexual intercourse, you should be examined by a gynecologist as soon as possible, since this may not only be a symptom of thrush in women. The causes of candidiasis may be associated with deeper disorders in a woman’s body, the treatment of which is impossible without a thorough diagnosis. Chronic thrush that is difficult to treat can be a sign of diabetes mellitus, intestinal dysbiosis, HIV infection, cancer.

Candida fungus, which causes thrush, is present in the body of almost every person. With proper therapy, its reproduction stops, and symptoms quickly disappear with age, which creates the appearance complete cure. Despite this, under conditions favorable for the activity of opportunistic microorganisms, relapses of the disease can occur very often. In women, frequent thrush requires careful treatment with an integrated approach: it is necessary to combat the causes of its occurrence.

Features of the disease

Candida fungus is an opportunistic microorganism. A certain amount of it is constantly contained in the microflora of the mouth and vagina. Bye physiological norm fungus is not exceeded - nothing threatens a person. Under the influence of minor changes in the body, the fungus begins to actively reproduce, provoking an inflammatory process on the mucous membrane.

During a lull, specific symptoms of chronic vaginal candidiasis are absent and appear only during an exacerbation. The following symptoms appear:

• swelling and redness of the mucous membrane;
• curdled discharge with a sour odor;
• vaginal dryness;
• constant itching;
• burning in the genital area;
• cracks in the vagina;
• discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Thrush often appears against the background of other genitourinary diseases that have specific symptoms.

If you ignore candidiasis and do not try to treat it, the fungus can spread deeper into the body and affect the uterine cavity and other pelvic organs. One of the most common complications is the development of cervical erosion, in which multiple ulcers appear on the surface. This is considered a precancerous condition and can lead to infertility.

During unprotected sexual intercourse, candidiasis is transmitted to a sexual partner. Women often experience thrush during pregnancy: the body is weakened during this period and the immune system is significantly reduced. If at the time of birth the pathology is still in acute form, it is transmitted to the child and contributes to the appearance of oral candidiasis.

Possible causes of relapse

Very often, candidiasis appears for no apparent reason. It can be caused by an unnoticed decrease in the body’s protective functions, treatment with aggressive drugs and poor nutrition. To choose the optimal method of therapy, it is necessary to accurately identify the causes of persistent thrush.

Decreased immunity

Persistent thrush is often a consequence of low immunity. The body's defenses keep the proliferation of opportunistic microorganisms under control and suppress their activity. Viral or bacterial infections, hypothermia, vitamin deficiency and exacerbation of chronic diseases create an ideal environment for the proliferation of fungus.

At serious problems With immune status(for example, due to chemotherapy or in the presence of HIV), candidiasis quickly spreads to other organs, up to the esophagus and lungs.

Endocrine system problems

Decreased thyroid function, diabetes and obesity are quite common causes of frequent thrush in women. Under the influence of these pathologies, the sugar level in vaginal discharge, urine and blood increases. The acidity of the environment becomes critically low, and such microflora is ideal for the proliferation of fungus.

Medicines

Cytostatics, corticosteroids and antibiotics affect both immunity and acidity levels. The longer the drug is used, the more the healthy intestinal microflora suffers from it, which contains bacteria that guarantee proper digestion and food absorption. Under the influence of medications, intestinal function decreases, and, as a result, the vaginal microflora suffers.

Such drugs successfully fight viruses and infections, but do not affect fungal diseases.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy female body is experiencing serious stress. All his systems begin to work differently, hormonal levels change. The body's forces are directed towards preserving and bearing a child; against the background of this stress, an exacerbation of chronic diseases often occurs.

Thrush in women (candidiasis) – inflammatory disease genitals, which is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. It received its specific name due to vaginal discharge whitish in color, similar to curdled milk.

The vaginal mucosa is involved in the process. There is also a common process that occurs on the skin of the external genitalia. This is one of the most common diseases that affects women of any age. A companion to candidiasis is reduced immunity. In this article we will talk about the main causes of thrush in women, its symptoms and treatment methods.

Causes of thrush

The pathogen is “own” when, for various reasons, rapid growth of a fungus begins, which is part of the opportunistic microflora of the vagina. Thrush is also transmitted sexually, often together with other bacterial sexually transmitted infections.

It is possible to completely cure thrush, which is caused by its own pathogen, only by eliminating the provoking factor. These include the following:

• Therapy with immunosuppressants, beam method, chemotherapy drugs used in oncology.
• Changes in hormonal levels: both physiological (pregnancy, menopause) and pathological (diabetes mellitus, pathology of the ovaries, thyroid gland, obesity).
• Chronic diseases that reduce immunity (liver cirrhosis, chronic pyelonephritis, diseases respiratory tract, tonsillitis, HIV infection).
• Poisoning and intoxication.
• Nutrition factor. Plays a primary role for normal immunity.
• Treatment with antibiotics. Any antibiotic therapy (especially uncontrolled) leads to varying degrees of intestinal dysbiosis. Fungi of the genus Candida first begin to multiply intensively in the large intestine, then spread to the genitals.
• Linen. Frequent swimming in pools and ponds when a woman long time spends it in wet underwear, provokes candidiasis. Synthetic materials create an isolated, warm, moist environment in the genital area, which is a favorable factor for the proliferation of fungi.
• Hygiene reasons. There are many of them - both long-term lack of hygiene and excessive passion for aromatic products ( intimate gels, vaginal sprays, scented pads, use of panty liners, rarely changing tampons during menstruation).
• Stress, overwork, heavy sports and physical activity.
• Climatic factor. Both overheating and hypothermia, which reduces protective properties, are unfavorable.

With sexual transmission, itching and burning occur a few days after sexual intercourse. You should definitely consult a doctor. Incorrect self-medication with antibiotics can have irreparable consequences (generalized candidiasis).

The first signs and symptoms of thrush

The manifestation of thrush is characterized by specific symptoms, so there are no difficulties with diagnosis. The severity and severity of the process directly depends on the basic state of the vaginal microflora and immunity.

Typically, thrush occurs against the background of some provoking factor: hypothermia, prolonged use of antibiotics, stress. Typical symptoms are:

• Curd-like vaginal discharge. This is a symptom characteristic of the disease, which allows a correct diagnosis to be made already at the initial stage of the disease. Appearance: whitish or gray-white with grains of lumps.
• Itching. It even appears before discharge. It is painful, persistent, and does not disappear after hygiene procedures. Peak sensations - evening time. Worsens when walking. Water does not bring relief, but increases the severity of symptoms.
• Microcracks. Their appearance is associated with the predominance of an acidic environment created by mushrooms. This is the entrance gate for the accompanying bacterial flora. If the disease is not treated on time, fungal-bacterial inflammation develops.
• Pain . It is felt during urination or sexual intercourse. Its mechanism is associated with irritation of microcracks.

If a fungal infection is accompanied by a bacterial one, (dirty yellow color). Then thrush can be confused with bacterial vaginosis. Antibiotics prescribed in this case only worsen the disease.

Diagnostic methods

Any diagnosis, even the most obvious one, must be confirmed by laboratory tests. A typical picture may hide not only a fungal infection, but also concomitant pathology. At good immunity the disease manifests itself with subtle symptoms, invisible to the woman.

To confirm the final diagnosis of candidiasis, there is a clear algorithm. In addition to analyzing complaints and collecting anamnesis, there are the following methods:

• Standard gynecological examination. Detects a characteristic plaque on the walls of the vagina.
• Smear of discharge. It is obtained using a tampon (it is passed in several places along the walls of the vagina and cervix).
• Bacteriological research. The resulting material is placed on a glass slide, dried, stained and analyzed under a microscope. The mycelium of the Candida fungus is clearly visible to the laboratory assistant. The sensitivity of the method is 95%.
• Cultural method. The biological material is placed on a nutrient medium and the mycelium is waited for growth. If this happens, the diagnosis is 100% confirmed.

Why don't they use the serological method? Single fungi are present in the microflora healthy women. For the disease to occur, their number must exceed 10,000 CFU (colony-forming units). Serological reactions even the minimum content of the fungus is detected, which is not evidence of pathology.

Medications

When treating thrush in women, methods of combating any fungal infection are used. Depending on the severity of the process and the presence of general manifestations, local drugs are prescribed or combined with systemic agents.

Ideally, the drug that has shown the greatest effectiveness in determining sensitivity by culture should be prescribed for treatment. This is not always possible because it takes quite a lot of time. We will focus on proven methods that can be used at home.

Capsules and tablets

Refers to means of systemic action. They are absorbed into the blood and reach the site of infection. Tablets for thrush often have side effects, but without them it may be impossible to completely get rid of the problem.

• "Fluconazole". Available in capsules. It acts selectively on the enzymatic systems of many fungi, including Candida albicans. In vaginal secretions it reaches its maximum concentration after 8 hours of administration and persists for 24 hours. The drug is taken 1 time per day.
• "Flucostat". An analogue of Fluconazole, available in the form of capsules and solution for injection. It is administered intravenously in case of generalized candidiasis against the background of severe immunodeficiency. Both drugs are characterized by a moderate degree of toxicity and cause minor side effects.
• "Diflucan". It is also an analogue of Fluconazole, but is available in more varied forms. In addition to capsules, there is a powder for preparing a suspension (used in pediatric practice) and a solution for intravenous administration.
• "Clotrimazole". For oral administration it is available in the form of tablets. Has a wide spectrum of action. It is active not only against thrush pathogens, but also against some protozoa (vaginal Trichomonas) and bacteria. This is an effective remedy against combined vulvovaginitis.

With the help of the drugs described, thrush can be treated very easily. After the first dose, the main complaints disappear. The only limitation to the widespread use of tablets and capsules is pregnancy and severe concomitant diseases in women.

Creams and ointments

Local agents. They are prescribed primarily to pregnant women when there are contraindications for systemic tablets. They can help in isolation at the very beginning of the disease.

• "Candide". Cream containing clotrimazole. It is easily applied to inflamed areas of the mucous membrane and quickly brings relief from symptoms.
• "Clotrimazole". This is an ointment that spreads well on the surface of the genital organs and penetrates into the vagina. Has a wide spectrum of action (similar to tablets). It is applied twice a day to all affected areas (you should not get up right away, it is better to remain in a horizontal position for about 20 minutes). Sometimes it may cause a burning sensation at the application sites. Unlike creams, it is contraindicated during pregnancy, since it is slightly absorbed from the vaginal mucosa.
• "Pimafucin". Refers to broad-spectrum antibiotics. For topical use it is used in the form of a cream. The course of treatment is at least 14 days, but with longer use it does not cause adverse reactions. Well tolerated. Indicated during pregnancy.
• "Ginofort". Modern medicine with a single dose local application. Using a convenient applicator, the cream is injected deep into the vagina. The active ingredient, butoconazole, is effective against many types of fungal infections. Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.

Among the creams and ointments for complex treatment, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing ones are widely used: Akriderm, Levomekol, Actovegin. They cope well with the symptoms of inflammation and heal microcracks in the mucous membrane.

Candles

Suppositories are the most convenient in the fight against thrush, so they are prescribed more often than creams and ointments. Their advantage is deep penetration into the vagina, which provides maximum impact on the pathogen.

• "Zalain". It is applied once and is very effective. During pregnancy, clinical data are insufficient. Local burning and itching may occur, which do not require discontinuation of the drug. Can be used during pregnancy.
• "Livarol". The active ingredient, ketoconazole, very quickly inhibits the growth of fungi. Course – 5 days. Usually well tolerated, but contraindicated during pregnancy.
• "Irunin". A drug that is used for chronic relapsing course, when other remedies have failed. May cause burning and itching. Contraindicated in the first trimester.

There is no point in doing treatment on your own. In case of prolonged forms, it is necessary to do a culture test for sensitivity to antibiotics and receive those drugs that are guaranteed to suppress the growth of the pathogen.

Treatment with folk remedies

Since the disease is widespread and often plagues women during pregnancy, traditional medicine offers many recipes for getting rid of this disease. All of them are based on local effects on the fungus.

Advantage folk ways is their availability and low price. Often symptoms occur in the evening, when it is too late to run to the pharmacy. Then one of the following recipes may help:

• Iodine, salt, soda. In a liter of water, dilute 2 tablespoons of salt and 1 tablespoon of soda. Boil for 2-3 minutes. Cool to 40°C and add 10 drops of iodine. The resulting solution should be douched twice a day. Course – 5 days.
• Carrot juice. Drink 1 glass freshly squeezed per day on an empty stomach. This is a stimulation of the body's protective properties.
• Herbs. Chamomile, sage, yarrow and calendula are suitable. To prepare the solution, mix three tablespoons of each, then take a tablespoon from the mixture and pour boiling water (0.5 liters). We insist, we filter. The solution should be douched twice a day.

Each recipe can be used in addition to the main therapy, as it effectively relieves discomfort. But it is better to consult a doctor before using traditional methods, as some may be useless, while others may cause allergic reactions.

Features of the treatment of chronic thrush

The transition to a chronic form easily occurs due to improper self-medication. Often women confuse the symptoms of the disease with bacterial vaginitis and begin to treat it with antibiotics. This only blurs the clinical picture, increases vaginal dysbiosis and leads to the formation of a chronic inflammatory process.

A disease is considered chronic when exacerbations occur 4 or more times a year. In this case, conventional treatment regimens will not be effective.

• Only a combination of local drugs and systemic drugs is used.
• Antibiotics and oral contraceptives are excluded.
• They are actively trying to improve immunity (vitamins, balanced diet, avoidance of stress).
• Probiotics are required, since the normal state of intestinal microflora is directly related to vaginal dysbiosis.
• Treatment of chronic diseases that weaken the body's defenses.

The basic antifungal drug is used the same, only the patterns of its use differ significantly in time. Upon successful disposal chronic thrush(which must be confirmed by laboratory testing) a course of general strengthening medications (vitamins, pre- and probiotics) is carried out.

Prevention measures

They are necessary for people at risk (with congenital or acquired reduced immunity). It is important to understand that yeast-like fungi are constant companions of the body and cannot be completely eliminated. Prevention is aimed at strengthening the protective functions that prevent fungi from creating large colonies and causing inflammation.

There is no point in describing all the ways to increase immunity; separate articles are devoted to this. Let's name specific measures to prevent thrush:

• Use of barrier methods of protection.
• Refusal of sexual intercourse during treatment of candidiasis.
• Refusal of hormonal contraceptives.
• A comprehensive examination to identify the causes of decreased immunity.
• Combination of a course of antibiotics with prophylactic antifungal drugs.
• Careful observance of personal hygiene rules.
• Rejection of bad habits.

A balanced diet plays a special role in preventing thrush. Our immune cells and the substances they synthesize need proteins. A deficiency of protein foods is unacceptable. It is important to add Omega-3 fatty acids to your diet.

Video: “How to get rid of thrush once and for all?”

The presented video explains in clear language the principles of getting rid of thrush. The problem with this disease is that you can only get rid of it by revising many of your habits. No miracle pill will help if a woman is plagued by stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet.

You need to treat the cause, not the effect. The pathological growth of candida fungi in the vagina is a consequence of many reasons, which are described by a women’s health specialist. The most effective and inexpensive treatment is a lifestyle change.

Thrush is one of the ailments that affects both women and men. In medicine, the disease is known as candidiasis. Many people will probably be interested in learning in more detail what thrush in women is, what symptoms it manifests, how it progresses and is treated.

The disease appears as a result of the development of a yeast infection in the body, which is caused by the fungi Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, and Candida krusei.

Once in the body, they begin to actively multiply on the mucous membranes, tongue, mouth, throat, and also in the vaginal area. Candidiasis can affect children; it manifests itself as a rash on different parts bodies. The disease most often affects newborn children and elderly people with weakened immune systems. Thrush in women and men is not a pleasant phenomenon; its symptoms bring many alarming moments. If treatment is started on time, the disease will pass without complications.

TO andidosis

Thrush, or candidiasis, is an infection caused by the yeast Candida, which spreads throughout the vaginal mucosa and surrounding tissues. This type of fungus is present in the body of every person in moderate quantities. When some changes begin to occur in it, it is attacked by diseases, immunity decreases, fungi begin the active phase of reproduction, thereby increasing the level of their presence above the permissible norm. This can be prevented if a woman knows what thrush is, what causes it, and what methods and means are necessary to combat the disease.

The main site of infection is the intestine, oral cavity, genitals. If the fungus does not cause harm to a healthy body, then in a person with reduced immunity, on the contrary, it begins to actively multiply, provoking the development of the disease.

Is thrush a sexually transmitted disease or not?

Nowadays, thrush is a disease that affects many representatives of the fair sex. Almost every one of them is familiar with the disease and has undergone appropriate treatment. Often, provoking factors that contribute to the active proliferation of fungi include reduced immunity, long-term use medicines(antibiotics), uncomfortable, tight underwear, neglect of the rules of intimate hygiene.

People who have encountered this disease understand what thrush in women is, because the unpleasant sensations and discomfort are very difficult to forget. Often ladies, faced with unpleasant symptoms, get scared, thinking that it is a sexually transmitted disease. Actually this is not true.

Based on statistics, residents of large cities and pregnant women are most often exposed to candidiasis. And its treatment must be taken very seriously. After all, if treatment is not started in time and the disease starts, the fungi will multiply even more actively, affecting not only the mucous membrane of the genital organs, but also the surrounding tissues. In addition, neglect of treatment increases the risk of recurrent infection. About 5% of women get thrush several times a year. This is due to the fact that to treat other diseases they resort to long-term use of antibiotics.

What does the microflora of the female vagina consist of?

Before talking about what thrush is in a woman, you need to know that many types of different bacteria and fungi coexist on the mucous membranes, including bifidobacteria, candida, lactobacilli, streptococci, staphylococci, enterococci, etc. If the number of some of them in the vagina decreases, the habitat becomes alkaline and favorable for the proliferation of pathogens and bacteria, which provoke the development of various ailments and inflammatory processes.

Various microorganisms populate a woman’s genitals almost from birth, from the moment the microflora is formed. They do not cause disease or harm the body. With age, menstruation, the beginning of sexual life, pregnancy, their set and quantity changes all the time. Of course, among them there are not only positive and harmless ones, but also those that can provoke various diseases. Microorganisms enter the active phase of reproduction only if their number exceeds the permissible norm. When the number of bacteria is normal, then immune cells and other inhabitants of the microflora suppress them and destroy them, thereby preventing unwanted reproduction and the development of diseases.

The microflora of the female vagina is also represented by fungi of the genus Candida, which are present in the form of inactive round-shaped cells. But under favorable conditions, their presence does not in any way affect the woman’s well-being.

The influence of thrush on sexual intercourse

Many people are concerned about the causes of thrush in women. After all, itching and discomfort can appear at the most unexpected moment, which leads to bad mood, depression, the inability to build good intimate relationships, and difficulties in family life.

Thrush can be transmitted sexually if the partner has this disease. Women believe that by refusing intimate relationships, they can protect themselves from illness. On the one hand, this is true, but sexual intercourse is not the only (and not the main!) cause of thrush, and it is very important to remember this. Of course, having sex while sick is not very advisable, besides, sexual intercourse will only bring a feeling of discomfort, painful sensations. It is better to first undergo the necessary course of treatment and make sure that the infection is completely gone. In this way, the sick person will prevent the recurrence of the infection and protect his sexual partner from infection. As a last resort, you should use a condom.

The most common causes of the disease

The causes of thrush in women can be associated with various factors, including chronic and infectious diseases, disorders of the immune system, pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, intestinal dysbiosis, and hormonal imbalance. The disease can also be caused by taking medications for too long, such as antibiotics, adapting to a new climate that is unusual for the body, panty liners, tampons, tight and uncomfortable underwear, and intimate hygiene products. Often women suffering from vitamin deficiency, obesity, diabetes mellitus who abuse confectionery products, eat fatty, spicy, carbohydrate dishes, and baked goods. The causes of the disease can be smoking, microtraumas of the mucous membrane of the genital organs, overwork, stressful situations, and regular lack of sleep.

How do you know if a woman has thrush?

Itching, burning sensation and discomfort in intimate places, cheesy discharge and a specific odor from the vagina indicate that it may be thrush. In women, the symptoms of the disease are peculiar and not too similar to the manifestations of sexually transmitted diseases. Complaints arise due to the proliferation of yeast microorganisms on the vaginal mucosa. The infection destroys the cell structure, penetrates very deeply, and forms microscopic damage. The mucous membrane inside the vagina becomes inflamed, and a sensation of pain and burning appears. The inflammatory process leads to dilation of small vessels of the mucous membrane and swelling of the vaginal walls. The body tries to fight the fungus and the toxins it produces.

Pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse, as well as swelling of the vagina, are not always alarming. Many people think that this is a normal reaction of the body that will pass over time, and only when discharge and odor appear do they determine that it is thrush. In women, symptoms appear at the very beginning of the disease. It is necessary to be treated immediately and only effective drugs without waiting any longer for manifestation warning signs, especially since today there are medications that can suppress the infection in one or two days.

Alarming symptoms of thrush

The main and noticeable signs of the disease are white coating and unpleasant cheesy vaginal discharge. This happens as a result of the active proliferation of fungi and an increase in their number. The fungus covers the labia with a white coating, causes inflammation and copious discharge from the vagina, which look like a curdled mass, like curdled milk. The discharge consists of fungal mycelium, leukocytes and damaged mucosal cells.

The unpleasant sensation of itching and burning is caused by glycogen, which breaks down in cells and forms acids. Symptoms become especially noticeable after taking hygienic baths or urinating.

Active phase of development of thrush

If treatment for thrush in women is not started in time, the disease can progress. In this case, the inflammatory process spreads beyond the vagina, affecting the surrounding tissues, the labia minora and majora.

In this case, the epidermis on the skin of the genital organs stratifies, small pimples with liquid inside form. After they burst, a small crust appears in this place and erosion occurs.

Symptoms of thrush can spread not only to the inner and outer area of ​​the vagina, but to the perineum, the skin between the buttocks and the inguinal folds. Women who have the symptoms described above become nervous, have sleep disturbances, and are in a bad mood. Particularly severe discomfort occurs during a long walk or during menstruation.

In what cases should you not self-medicate?

If initial symptoms thrush can be easily and quick elimination with the help of appropriate medications, its more complex form requires medical intervention. During the period of illness, urethritis or cystitis may appear - ailments that aggravate the symptoms and course of thrush. This means that the fungus has penetrated deep into the body and has begun to actively multiply in urinary system and spreads to other organs. As a result, the patient feels aching pain in the abdomen and his body temperature rises. Such symptoms are very dangerous for the patient’s health, they require the intervention of a doctor, so self-medication in this case will not only not help, but will also harm!

Traditional and folk treatment of thrush

Understanding what thrush is in women, understanding its signs and symptoms, you can use traditional and traditional medicine for treatment. In this case, it is advisable to first consult with a gynecologist, who, based on the test results and laboratory research smear, prescribe appropriate treatment with the necessary drugs and herbal infusions. After all, self-medication can lead to serious complications.

Usually, for treatment, it is enough to take one drug that can reduce the amount of fungus to normal. After this, you will need to restore the microflora to a healthy state and increase the protective properties of the immune system. An excellent option is to conduct complex therapy using special drugs.

Effective drugs for thrush

Nowadays, there are many drugs for vaginal candidiasis that treat the infection at one stage or another. Therefore, in order not to make a mistake or harm the body even more, it is advisable to use a medicine for thrush for women prescribed by a gynecologist. Some medications only need to be taken once, others for a little longer.

Among antifungal medications, drugs such as Fluconazole, Iconazole, Clotrimazole, Ketoconazole, which can be purchased in the form of suppositories, creams, capsules and tablets, are considered effective. Pimafucin, Nystatin, Mikosist, Natamycin, and Levorin are used as local and general treatment to actively combat fungi.

In order to normalize the level of acidity, microflora, and restore the vaginal mucosa, tablets and suppositories are used: Ecofemin, Vagilak, Lactobacterin, Genoflor, etc. Taking immunomodulators and immunocorrectors will help strengthen the immune system.

Anti-thrush tablets for women can relieve the disease and unpleasant symptoms in just a couple of days, while treatment with gels, ointments and suppositories requires a week or even more. At the same time, the tablets provide comprehensive and effective treatment from fungus, which reduces the likelihood of recurrence of the disease. At mild form For the development of the disease, it is enough to use the remedy for thrush for women only once; a more complex form requires taking drugs that belong to different groups.

Treating thrush at home

As you know, any medicine for thrush for women is used at home; in very rare cases, hospital treatment is required. The use of alternative traditional medicine will not cause harm to the body, but will only improve the patient’s condition. Among other things, our grandmothers, who knew a lot, can tell us how to cure thrush in women quickly and without complications. healthy recipes. But you should remember to consult a doctor.

For example, in order to relieve itching, you can use a soda solution for douching and washing. An excellent anti-inflammatory and antifungal agent is considered to be a collection of oak bark, knotweed, chamomile and nettle, which is used for morning and evening douching. Well treats erosion and inflammatory processes sea ​​buckthorn oil, but a tampon soaked in freshly prepared garlic oil. To restore the vaginal microflora, you can use tampons previously soaked in bifidumbacterin. For intimate washing, you can use laundry or tar soap.

Traditional medicine for the treatment of thrush

Alternative treatment for thrush in women has virtually no contraindications, but you must first consult a doctor (this is especially true for pregnant women).

An infusion of St. John's wort, which must be douched, is very popular among people for the treatment of thrush; raspberry leaves and sage, and tea tree oil are used in the same way. Oak bark, which has antimicrobial and soothing effects, is also considered an excellent and effective component. It is good to drink freshly prepared and unsweetened cranberry or viburnum juice during illness. The components they contain prevent the development of the disease, alleviate symptoms and strengthen the immune system.