What should I do if candidal vaginitis recurs?

Symptoms of candidal vaginitis include increased leucorrhea, itching and burning sensation of the vulva and vagina, painful urination, redness and edema around the vulva, and various changes in the epidermis. Shallow vesicular papules may occur in groups. Eczematous erosions may also form, which may be limited to the vulva or extend to the perineum, around the anus, and the femoral genital folds, and even to the inner and outer thighs, completely similar to acute or subacute eczema. The mucosa near the labia and clitoris becomes thickened, and the skin surfaces in contact with each other become red and eroded. Some may cause tiny white pustules, and in severe cases, ulcers, vulvar pain, and local lymphadenopathy may occur.

1. Eliminate the causes of the disease. If diabetes is being actively treated, discontinue broad-spectrum antibiotics or estrogens promptly.

2. Pay attention to hygiene and change your underwear frequently, especially your trouser legs. Clothes that are taken off must be boiled and disinfected to avoid cross infection in public places.

3. Vaginal fungi often coexist or cross-infect with fungi in other parts of the body, such as oral and intestinal fungi. If fungal vaginitis recurs, samples should be taken from these areas for fungal microscopic examination or culture when necessary. Patients with typical clinical manifestations and/or positive fungus test should be treated promptly.

4. For patients with stubborn or recurrent candidal vaginitis, sexual transmission is also one of the causes of recurrence. At least 10% of men with symptomatic women have fungal urethritis and should be given reasonable treatment at the same time to prevent cross infection.