Vaginal fungus is one of the most common diseases of the external female genital tract. We have summarized the symptoms and diagnostic procedures for you.
Up to 75% of all women contract a fungal infection of the vagina and vulva during their lifetime. In about 5% of all women the infection is recurrent, i.e. comes back several times (at least 4x) a year. In about In 85-90% of cases, the yeast "Candida albicans" is responsible for the infection. This fungus is actually a normal part of the female mucous membrane colonization - but if the sensitive vaginal flora gets out of balance, it can lead to mycosis (fungal disease). In the warm and moist environment of the intimate area, fungi find the ideal breeding ground to spread.
How does a woman recognize a vaginal fungus?
A vaginal fungal infection is usually manifested by itching and/or unpleasant burning in the area of the vagina and vulva. Although the term "vaginal mycosis" suggests that only the vagina is affected by the fungal infection, the itching and burning is usually most noticeable on the vulva (from the labia to the clitoris to the vaginal entrance). Besides itching and burning, other typical symptoms are:
- Redness of the vulva and vagina
- White, "potty", but often odorless, discharge.
- Pain during sex
- Pain (e.g. burning) during urination
Is it actually a fungus?
To make sure that your symptoms are caused by a fungal infection, it is useful to examine the vaginal secretion under the microscope and to prepare a fungal culture, especially if the symptoms recur. This is the only way to determine whether it is actually a fungus and which strain is the trigger for the infection. Consequently, when the typical symptoms appear, it is better to refrain from self-treatment and consult your gynecologist in order to rule out other pathogens or diseases and quickly take countermeasures with an individually adapted treatment.
