Patient's question:
In the past half year, my discharge has been continuous. During this period, I was diagnosed with and cured of a fungal vaginal infection. However, bacterial vaginosis has not been fully resolved. My discharge sometimes appears watery and at other times purulent. Medications have not shown any improvement. After sexual intercourse, my discharge increases. I am planning to have a child and am concerned that long-term medication may affect pregnancy. I have read many reports stating that long-term vaginal medication can also lead to infections. Now, I don’t know what to do. Please ask: How can I completely treat vaginal infections?Doctor's answer:
Candidiasis, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis, is a common gynecological disease caused by a fungal infection called Candida albicans. It is a reproductive tract infection that is easily spread among women, causing symptoms such as increased vaginal discharge and itching. Since this condition can be transmitted through sexual activity, the World Health Organization has classified it as a sexually transmitted disease.Candida albicans is a saprophytic fungus that normally resides in the skin, mucous membranes, digestive tract, and other organs of the human body. When the body's resistance decreases, Candida albicans can multiply, and when it reaches a certain quantity, the human body will develop the disease. Therefore, Candida albicans is a conditionally pathogenic organism. When the glycogen in the vaginal epithelial cells increases and the acidity strengthens, Candida albicans will multiply, causing vaginitis. This is why the condition is more common in pregnant women, diabetic patients, and those receiving estrogen therapy.
Additionally, this condition can be transmitted sexually because both partners in a relationship often develop it simultaneously. Of course, Candida albicans can also spread through public baths, bathtubs, towels, swimsuits, clothing, medical devices, and dressings.