Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

Can candidiasis be prevented?

The chance of developing oral candidiasis can be reduced by rinsing your mouth after eating, practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly and having regular dental check-ups. You may be able to reduce your chance of developing vaginal candidiasis by wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear and pants, avoiding using soaps around the genital area (they can cause irritation) and washing hands after going to the toilet.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is candidiasis?

Candidiasis is a common fungal infection that typically affects the mouth and throat or, in women, the vagina. It is caused by a micro-organism called Candida albicans. Candidiasis is not usually very serious. It can be effectively treated with anti-fungal creams or …

What is oral candidiasis?

Oral candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by an organism called Candida albicans that can infect the mouth and throat. It can cause white sores or patches on the mouth or tongue and difficulty swallowing.

What is vaginal candidiasis?

Vaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by an organism called Candida albicans. The infection causes itching, irritation and swelling around the vagina, a thick white discharge from the vagina and pain when passing urine and during sex. Men can also …

Can I have sex when I have candidiasis?

Sex during a candidiasis infection may be painful or uncomfortable. It is important to remember that candidiasis is infectious, so it is important to use protection.

What causes candidiasis?

Candidiasis is a fungal infection that occurs when there is an overgrowth of a micro-organism called Candida albicans. Although this organism is always present in the body, in the mouth and the vagina, there are some factors that cause it to overgrow and lead to …

How is candidiasis diagnosed?

Candidiasis can usually be diagnosed by a visual examination of the affected area by a doctor. A doctor may also take a swab from the affected area and examine it under a microscope.

How is vaginal candidiasis treated?

Vaginal candidiasis can be treated with antifungal medications, which can be applied to the affected area as a cream or taken as a tablet. Wearing loose-fitting cotton pants and underwear, avoiding sex and bathing the affected area may also help to …

What is the treatment for oral candidiasis?

Oral candidiasis can be prevented with antifungal medications such as the nystatin mouthwash or miconazole gel, which is applied to the affected area. In some cases a doctor may prescribe an oral medication such as fluconazole.

Who can develop candidiasis?

Anyone can develop candidiasis, but there are some factors that can increase your chance of developing the condition. People who have diabetes, take antibiotics or the oral contraceptive pill ('The Pill') are more likely to develop candidiasis.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Vaginal itching

Vaginal itching is experienced by many women and may be accompanied by vaginal discharge. There are many causes for vaginal itching. Generally, it is easily treated.…
Diseases & conditions

Vaginal discharge

It is normal for women to have some vaginal discharge. The appearance and amount of discharge will vary, according to factors such as ovulation, pregnancy or starting oral contraceptive medication. There are infections such as thrush, chlamydia and gonorrhoea that can also cause changes to vaginal discharge.…
Diseases & conditions

Vulvovaginitis in girls

Vulvovaginitis is the inflammation of the lining of the vagina and outer genitalia, and is a common condition in young girls. Although it can be uncomfortable and cause pain and discharge, it is usually easy to treat.…
Diseases & conditions

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria normally found in the vagina. It often causes a grey-coloured discharge. Although more common in sexually active women, bacterial vaginosis is not passed on through sexual activity.…
Diseases & conditions

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is the infection of a woman’s reproductive organs and surrounding pelvic tissues. It occurs most commonly when a sexually-transmitted infection spreads beyond the vagina to internal pelvic organs. This can lead to long-term complications if not recognised and treated early.…
Diseases & conditions

Tinea

Tinea, also known as ringworm, is a common skin infection with a characteristic ring-like appearance. It is caused by several types of fungus and can appear on different parts of the body including the scalp, chest, feet, groin, face, hands and nails. Tinea is very contagious but easily treated.…

About this article

Author: Dr Nikki Wallis PhD, BSc
First answered: 22 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Votes: 761 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Vaginal itching

×

Content goes in here.