Symptoms of fungal vaginitis

The main symptoms of fungal vaginitis include vulvar itching, tofu-like leucorrhea, vulvar burning pain, painful urination, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. Fungal vaginitis is usually caused by Candida infection and may be related to long-term antibiotic use, pregnancy, diabetes, low immunity and other factors.

1. Vulvar itching

Vulvar itching is the most common symptom of fungal vaginitis, which is characterized by persistent or paroxysmal itching of the vulva, which may be aggravated at night. The degree of itching varies from person to person, and in severe cases it may affect daily life and sleep. The skin of the vulva may become red, swollen or damaged due to scratching. It is recommended to avoid scratching, wear breathable cotton underwear, and seek medical attention promptly for a clear diagnosis.

2. Tofu-like leucorrhea

The vaginal secretions of patients with fungal vaginitis are often white, thick, curd-like or tofu-like, with no obvious odor. The amount of leucorrhea may increase and stick to the vaginal wall and vulva. This characteristic discharge is a sign of excessive fungal proliferation and needs to be distinguished from the fishy-smelling discharge of bacterial vaginosis. If you find abnormal leucorrhea, you should avoid douching the vagina yourself.

3. Burning pain in the vulva

Some patients experience a burning or stinging sensation in the vulva, which is especially aggravated after urination or when exposed to alkaline lotions. The vulvar mucosa may be congested and edematous, with tiny tears in severe cases. It is recommended to clean with warm water and avoid using irritating products such as soap. If the burning pain persists and does not relieve, other skin diseases should be ruled out.

4. Pain during urination

When inflammation spreads to the urethral opening, there may be a burning sensation or painful urination during urination, but there will be no bladder irritation symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency. Urinary irritation of the already inflamed vaginal mucosa can worsen discomfort. It needs to be differentiated from urinary tract infection, which is usually accompanied by cloudy urine or fever. Keeping the perineum clean and dry can help relieve symptoms.

5. Discomfort during sexual intercourse

Inflammation of the vaginal mucosa may cause pain during sexual intercourse or discomfort afterwards, affecting the quality of sexual life. Sexual activity may aggravate mucosal damage when inflammation is not under control. Sexual intercourse should be avoided during treatment, and water-soluble lubricants can be used to reduce friction in the early stages after recovery. Treatment is usually not needed when the partner is asymptomatic.

Patients with fungal vaginitis should avoid wearing tight-fitting chemical fiber underwear, change pure cotton underwear every day and wash it with boiling water. Controlling blood sugar is particularly important for patients with diabetes, and those who use antibiotics for a long time need to evaluate the necessity of medication. During treatment, avoid eating spicy and irritating foods, and consume appropriate amounts of sugar-free yogurt to regulate the bacterial flora. When symptoms recur or are accompanied by fever or abdominal pain, it is necessary to rule out mixed infection and seek gynecological treatment promptly. Use antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole vaginal tablets and miconazole nitrate suppositories according to doctor's instructions and complete the entire course of treatment to prevent recurrence.