Genital Candidiasis FAQ'S

Genital candidiasis is a common infection that occurs in both women and men. This misunderstood infection is often misdiagnosed by the general population. To help you to better understand this condition, here are some frequently asked questions about genital candidiasis.

What is candidiasis?

Candida albicans is a yeast, or fungal organism, that lives in your body in small amounts. Your body makes bacteria that keeps the yeast under control. But when your body is weakened by illness or stress, the bacteria lose control of the yeast and the population explodes. This gives you a yeast infection, also known as candidiasis.

Who can get genital candidiasis?

Women are a lot more likely to get genital candidiasis than men. In fact, almost 75 percent of women will get it at least once in their life. Women dont usually get yeast infections from sexual contact, but men can. About 12-15 percent of men will get the associated penile itching and rash after sex with a candidiasis-infected partner.

What can cause genital candidiasis?

Many illnesses and conditions can cause a genital yeast infection:

• Using antibiotics can lower the number of protective bacteria in the vagina, which allows the yeast population to grow out of control
• Diabetes raises the pH of the vagina and increases the risk of a yeast infection
• Changes in your hormones from menopause, ovulation, birth control and pregnancy can also increase your chances of developing a yeast infection
• Immune systems weakened by HIV/AIDS are also vulnerable to yeast infections

Some of your personal habits can also cause genital candidiasis

• Drinking too much alcohol
• Using steroids
• Wearing underwear that is too tight or made from synthetic fiber
• Using douches

What happens if I have genital candidiasis?

Normal vaginal discharge is clear and mucus-like. When you have candidiasis, the discharge may become thick and white, with a texture like cottage cheese. Usually, the vaginal area becomes itchy, and urination and intercourse become painful. When men get candidiasis, they get an itchy rash on their penis.

What should I do if I think I have a yeast infection?

If you think you have a yeast infection, there are some over-the-counter remedies available. If the infection doesnt clear up, or if you think you might have a different infection, contact your doctor. Many times women think they have a yeast infection when they actually have another vaginal infection like bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis.

What kind of medicine is used to treat genital candidiasis?

There are many different types of medicine to treat candidiasis. Antifungal suppositories or creams are common. There are also oral medications. If you go the over-the-counter route, you dont have to wait to see your doctor and you might save a few dollars. However, if you go to your doctor for medication, s/he can make sure you have a yeast infection and treat you for the right condition. If you are confident that you have candidiasis and not something else, go ahead treat yourself. Sources: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/vaginal-infections http://www.webmd.com/brain/understanding-yeast-infection-basics http://mayoclinic.com/health/vaginitis/DS00255