Patient's question:
Patient Gender: 23Patient Age: Female
Detailed Condition and Purpose of Consultation: I previously had candidiasis of the vagina, which was cured with medication. However, I have been feeling uncomfortable recently. The discharge is not like the cottage cheese-like consistency it used to be. At first, there was some itching around the vaginal opening, but the labia became red and painful, which was very uncomfortable. However, it did not develop into a cottage cheese-like discharge. Later, I bought the antifungal effervescent tablets that my doctor had previously prescribed and used two of them, which resolved the issue. But before my next menstrual period, it starts to hurt again. What could be the reason? Is it still a fungal infection?
Doctor's answer:
Hello: According to your description, it may be a recurrence of candidal vulvovaginitis.The treatment for recurrent candidal vulvovaginitis first requires removing the causes that lead to repeated vaginal candidal infections, while extending the treatment period and using multiple treatment methods simultaneously. Local treatment can involve first using traditional Chinese herbal medicine for fumigation and sitz baths, followed by medication insertion into the vagina and applying antifungal ointment externally. Local treatment can be performed throughout the menstrual cycle, with medication cessation during menstruation and resuming treatment after the menstrual period ends. Oral itraconazole, 200 mg per dose, once daily after meals, for 3 consecutive days. Such treatment should be maintained for 1 to 2 months.