Patient's question:
I have had vaginitis for more than four months, with itchy external genitalia that has not been treated yet. It started as a fungal vaginitis.Doctor's answer:
Recurrent resistant candidal vulvovaginitis. After treatment, the following points should be noted:1. After onset, first use antifungal vaginal medication. Oral antifungal medication may be added if necessary.
2. After using antifungal vaginal medication, continue using vaginal suppositories to restore vaginal defense functions, such as lactobacillus-containing suppositories (e.g., Dingjunsheng).
3. Candidal vulvovaginitis tends to recur before menstruation. Consider using antifungal medication vaginally before menstruation and restorative medication afterward, for three consecutive cycles.
4. Sexual activity can easily trigger recurrence. It is best to avoid sexual activity during treatment.
5. If a sexual partner has phimosis, it should be surgically corrected.
6. Avoid tight pants to prevent obstruction of ventilation.
7. Wash the external genitalia, including the male genitalia, before sexual activity.
8. Ensure sufficient lubrication before intercourse to prevent vaginal mucosal injury due to dryness, which can lead to easier recurrence of inflammation.
9. Candida is ubiquitous, and the external genitalia, vagina, and anus naturally harbor it. No treatment is needed unless symptoms or cottage cheese-like discharge are present.
Therefore, candidal vulvovaginitis cannot be considered completely cured; it can only be prevented from recurring.