Vaginal Candidiasis

Key facts

• Vaginal candidiasis is a yeast infection, usually caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans in the vagina.
• Main symptoms are intense itching or burning, a thick white cottage-cheese-like discharge, soreness, and discomfort during sex or urination.
• Treatment is a course of antifungals, most often topical fenticonazole, which clears the infection within a few days.
• See a doctor if symptoms persist beyond a week, return quickly after treatment, or recur more than four times a year.

What vaginal candidiasis is

Vaginal candidiasis is a yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungi, most often Candida albicans, in the vaginal area. It's extremely common and can recur, particularly after a course of antibiotics, in warm humid conditions, or in people with diabetes or a weakened immune system.

Symptoms

The hallmark symptom is intense itching or burning around the vagina and vulva. Many people notice a thick, white, cottage-cheese-like discharge with little or no odor. Soreness, redness, and discomfort during sex or urination are also typical, and symptoms can appear suddenly and worsen without treatment.

Antifungal treatment

Antifungals are the mainstay of treatment. Topical agents such as fenticonazole work by disrupting the Candida cell membrane, clearing the infection within a few days. Most uncomplicated episodes respond to a short course. Related conditions are covered in the broader women's health range.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if symptoms persist beyond a week, return quickly after treatment, or occur more than four times a year. Recurrent infections can point to an underlying factor, such as diabetes, antibiotic use, or immune suppression, that needs its own evaluation.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.