Vaginal mycosis
The vagina is naturally home to bacteria and fungi, which contribute to the body's defences. However, the balance of the vaginal environment can be disturbed by too much change: too aggressive or insufficient intimate hygiene, sweating, unsuitable underwear, antibiotics, change of contraception, etc. A vaginal mycosis can then appear.
Although normally harmless, the fungus responsible, the candida albicanscan become invasive and cause pain that can be significant.
In men, the fungus can spread and cause an inflammation of the glans, called balanitis.
Vaginal thrush can be transmitted through sexual contact (oral, vaginal, anal, sexual caresses).
However, it can occur spontaneously as a result of an imbalance in the vaginal flora, pregnancy, antibiotics, certain contraceptives, etc. It is therefore not considered an STI but is still sexually transmitted. It is therefore not considered an STI but is still sexually transmitted.
In the case of an infection, the symptoms of a fungus usually appear after 2 to 20 days:
- itching
- white, lumpy, whitish vaginal discharge
- burns
- inflammation of the glans
However, a fungus can occur spontaneously, without any sexual risk.
Apart from the discomfort caused by their symptoms, fungal infections do not usually lead to complications. However, there is a risk of recurrence if the fungus is not treated.
Screening for fungus is done :
- by clinical examination (of the vagina in women, of the glans in men)
- by examination of a sample
Go to a general practitioner, gynaecologist or urologist.
Your partners should also be screened and treated!
Fungus can be treated in two ways:
- appropriate medication
- cream to be applied locally on the mucous membranes or ovules to be introduced into the vagina
Good habits to protect yourself from fungus:
- Maintain good intimate hygiene: neither excessive nor insufficient (avoid douching, clean the genital area only with a suitable soap, etc.).
- avoid underwear made of synthetic materials
- change your tampon regularly or rinse your menstrual cup regularly
- avoid hot and humid areas, which can be harmful to the vaginal flora (jacuzzis, swimming pools, public baths, saunas)
- to avoid contamination, use an internal or external condom
