Because vaginitis is prevalent among women, many people ask ‘what causes vaginal candidiasis’. A lot of vaginal inflammation cases originate from yeast infection, namely candida albicans. Candida is a pathogen from the yeast family, which live on sugar and produce gases as by-product.
Causes of vaginal candidiasis
Eating a lot of empty-calorie foods
Foods mostly made of white flour, sugar, corn syrup and fructose causes a rapid spike in blood sugar. Too much sugar in the bloodstream invites growth of the normally-dormant candida yeast. In general, the higher the blood sugar, the higher the risk of having vaginal candidiasis.
Frequent use of antibacterial douches
Most douches are advertised to be used often and contain broad-spectrum antiseptics. Remember that there is a repertoire of good bacteria in the vagina, which helps in controlling the numbers of bad bacteria. Most commercial douches work by destroying most bacteria, leaving more numbers of yeast against the good ones.
Frequent use of certain sexual lubricants
A lot of sexual lubricants contain cellulose and glycerin as thickening and lubricating agents. Although it gives more slippery feel than water-based lubricants, cellulose and glycerin serve as food for candida albicans. The use of these lubricants is often blamed for what causes vaginal candidiasis in women.
Pregnancy
A lot of pregnant mothers also experience vaginal candidiasis. This is because of frequent hormone surges that causes increased sugar in the blood.
Undiagnosed diabetes
Elevated levels of blood sugar increases risk for candida vulvovaginitis. People who do not know that they have diabetes often experience recurrent vaginal candidiasis.
Management and remedies
Many natural remedies can help reduce and control candida infection in women.
- Apple cider vinegar should be used as douche. Mix one part to another one part of clean water, add a teaspoon of baking soda and use as douche twice a day.
- Avoid wearing tight fitting jeans and underwear made of synthetic materials. It creates a close and wet environment favorable for candida.
- Choose lubricants very well; avoid those containing glycerin, cellulose and sorbitol.
- When on antibacterial therapy, take several servings of yoghurt a day. Yoghurt contains probiotics that repopulate your vagina to control growth of candida.
- Increase intake of vitamin-C rich fruits in place of sweet and calorie rich foods to reduce blood sugar and increase immune resistance to infection.
If the condition is severe, it is wise to consult a doctor for a prescription of an effective topical anti-mycotic, which kills yeast without harming good bacteria. The above remedies are effective for pregnant mothers and those on antibiotic therapy. These are very effective in addressing what causes vaginal candidiasis in women.
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