<strong>What is vaginal thrush in Indian women?</strong>

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Vaginal thrush which is also known as yeast infection is the second most common cause of vaginal infection in females. It is caused by fungus belonging to the family of Candida species, out of which Candida albicans is the most common cause of vaginal candidiasis.

Although thrush is not included in the group sexually transmitted infections or STIs, it can be transmitted during unprotected sex. Candida is a resident of normal flora found in the vagina. Its growth is kept in control by the vaginal secretions, body's passive immunity and the other normal bacteria residing in the vagina. You experience thrush or yeast infection when the growth of this yeast goes out of control.

Why does thrush happen?

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• Altered flora - certain activities practiced by women such as douching the vagina, excessive washing of vagina with scented soaps, using scented talcum powders around vagina affect the normal vaginal flora. These normal bacteria are destroyed which otherwise keep Candida in control. So there is a tip in the balance and overgrowth of Candida.

• Diabetes - Uncontrolled sugar is one of the common causes of Candida especially recurrent candidiasis

• Decreased immunity- patients on chemotherapy for certain cancers, those taking steroids for some diseases, HIV patients are more prone to get candidiasis

• Antibiotics- Antibiotics taken for any reasons will kill the healthy naturally occurring bacteria along with the disease causing bacteria , this will again disturb the balance and cause overgrowth of Candida.

How do I know I am having a vaginal thrush?

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Vaginal thrush is seldom without any symptoms. You may experience

• Severe itching in vagina and around your vulvar area
• Thick , curdy , white vaginal discharge which is non smelling
• Soreness and redness of vulva and vagina
• Burning sensation during passing urine
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Excoriating rashes on vulva due to scratching

How can I prevent the Thrush?

• Use only water and mild soap for intimate area hygiene
• Avoid scented soaps, talcum powders ,shower gel around vulvar area
• Avoid douching
• Use loose cotton undergarments
• They will keep the intimate area dry and airy
• Avoid using tight fitting , synthetic undergarments
• Avoid washing undergarments with biological washing powder
• Consume lot of probiotic food like yogurt

What are the treatment options available?

Antifungal in the form of oral tablets or creams or both are effective for treating candidiasis. However few females experience recurrent candidiasis. They may have to undergo certain tests and may have to take longer treatment.

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If you feel you have vaginal thrush do visit your doctor and get the necessary tests done if advised. Rest assured vaginal thrush is a very much treatable condition if you follow the instructions properly.