Patient's question:
Hello, I have a yeast infection and am currently undergoing treatment. The doctor recommended that my partner also be treated.Is it necessary for my partner to get a separate check-up at the hospital before deciding whether to be treated, or should they start treatment with me now?
Additionally, I would like to ask: What causes a yeast infection? Is it curable? Will it recur after being cured? What precautions should be taken during and after treatment?
First follow-up question: Is it necessary for my partner to get a separate check-up at the hospital before deciding whether to be treated, or should they start treatment with me now?
Doctor's answer:
Hello:Candidal vulvovaginitis is a vaginal infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans. It has a high incidence rate and is prone to recurrence, making it a common gynecological condition. Candida thrives in acidic environments and often colonizes the human vagina, mouth, and intestines, leading to mutual infection. The predisposing factors for candidal vulvovaginitis include:
1. Transmission through sexual intercourse.
2. Recent use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which disrupt the vaginal flora and favor Candida growth.
3. Use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or patients with autoimmune diseases are more susceptible to Candida infection.
4. During pregnancy, the prevalence of Candida carriers or infection rates in the vagina significantly increase.
5. Concurrent diabetes.
6. Oral contraceptive use.
7. Wearing tight nylon pants, etc.
The clinical manifestations of candidal vulvovaginitis primarily include vulvar itching and changes in the amount and characteristics of vaginal discharge. Diagnosis relies on medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, and should be differentiated from trichomoniasis, nonspecific vaginitis, and infections caused by Mycoplasma and Chlamydia.
Treatment commonly involves using Jieshu liquid, cleaning the vulva and vagina with a 2% sodium bicarbonate solution, and locally applying antifungal medications such as Daxin or Daking. In recent years, incomplete treatment or deep vaginal tissue infection has led to recurrence. For recurrent vulvovaginitis, oral medication is highly effective for prevention. Common antifungal drugs include fluconazole and Spironolactone, taken orally every 2–4 weeks for 3–6 months, which can completely control symptoms. Monthly premenstrual follow-ups are recommended, with three consecutive negative results indicating cure. During treatment, sexual intercourse should be avoided, and both partners should be treated simultaneously.