Recurrent yeast infections
Dear Dr Mitchell,
Can the yeast fungus live in the body for a long time? Every time I have sex — very rarely, like every nine months or so — I get an infection, even while using a condom. When I don’t have intercourse I am infection-free. What could be the problem?
Yeast infection is a common problem in women and some men. It can be seen in the vagina, vulva, mouth and on the skin especially in moist areas. It can be present in the body for a long time without any obvious symptoms. There are certain conditions that will increase the risk for recurrent yeast infections. These include a weak immune system, diabetes mellitus, poor nutrition, the use of steroids to treat other conditions, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV) and use of the oral contraceptive pills.
Yeast infection (candidiasis) can also be sexually transmitted. Men tend to be sometimes free of symptoms but should be treated, especially if the condition is recurrent. Yeast infection tends to present with a thick, white curdy discharge that causes itching and sometimes swelling of the external vaginal area. The symptoms can be confused with bacterial vaginosis or trichomonas infection.
Bacterial vaginosis causes a greyish, frothy white discharge but also causes a fishy odour, while trichomonas vaginalis causes a greenish frothy discharge. All three infections cause vaginal and vulval itching and soreness and are often misdiagnosed. The treatment is different for a yeast infection and so without a proper examination, the inappropriate use of an antifungal will not result in a cure if the underlying problem is not a yeast infection.
Condom usage can also cause an allergic reaction which causes swelling, itching and soreness in the vagina and vulva. This is often confused with a yeast infection. You should try using a latex-free condom and see if the symptoms will disappear.
You should also practise hanging your underwear in the sun to help in the reduction of persistent yeast infections. A glucose test and an HIV test should also be done in cases of recurrent yeast infections. The use of an oral form of treatment combined with vaginal pessaries and a cream for external itching will definitely help to reduce recurrence. Your partner should also be treated.
Consult your doctor who will advise you further.
Best wishes.
Dr Sharmaine Mitchell is an obstetrician and gynaecologist. Send questions via e-mail to allwoman@jamaicaobserver. com; write to All Woman, 40-42 1/2 Beechwood Ave, Kingston 5; or fax 968-2025. Dr Mitchell cannot provide personal responses.
DISCLAIMER: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and must not be relied upon as an alternative to medical advice or treatment from your own doctor.
