Recurrent vaginal thrush (vaginal candida). How can this be prevented?

Authors

Spinillo A. Pizzoli G. Colonna L. Nicola S. De Seta F. Guaschino S.

Institution:

Ist. Clinica Ostetrica/Ginecologica, Universita di Pavia, IRCCS Policlinico

S. Matteo,Pavia; Italy.

Title:

Epidemiologic characteristics of women with idiopathic recurrent vulvovaginal candida (1993-2040c).

Source:

Obstetrics and Gynecology. Vol 81(5 I) (pp21-727), 1993.

Abstract:

Objectives:

To evaluate risk factors related to anamnestic variables, sexual behavior, feminine hygiene habits, and microbiologic findings in women with idiopathic recurrent vulvovaginal candida.

Methods:

We conducted a multivariate observational study comparing sociodemographic, anamnestic, clinical, and microbiologic variables between 86 patients with recurrent vaginal candida and 180 controls with nonrecurrent infection.

Results:

In logistic regression analysis, women with recurrent candidal vaginitis were more likely than controls to use contraceptive pills (adjusted odds ratio 2.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-3.91; P =.04) and commercially available solutions for either vulvoperineal cleansing (adjusted odds ratio 2.2, 95% CI 1.25-3.88; P = .007) or vaginal douching (adjusted odds ratio 1.8, 95% CI 1.0-3.26; P = .05). The rate of isolation of non-albicans candida species was significantly higher among cases than controls (adjusted odds ratio 3.0, 95% CI 1.50-6.04; P =.005). Finally, increasing frequency of monthly sexual intercourse was significantly correlated (chi2 for trend = 4.87; P = .027) with recurrent infection.

Conclusion:

Several behavioral factors seem to influence the occurrence of relapses in recurrent vulvovaginal candida. Appropriate counseling about contraception, sexual activity, and personal hygiene habits could be an important preventive measure in these cases.