Why does vulvovaginal candidiasis occur?
Vulvovaginal
candidiasis is caused by different species of the fungus Candida. The
most common is Candida albincans, which is responsible for 9 out of
10 cases, although there are other species that are becoming increasingly
prevalent (C. tropicalis, C. krusei, C. guillermond and C. glabrata).
The
microbiota that protects the vaginal mucosa is made up of different bacteria in
perfect balance, and among them may be Candida albicans. 20-50% of asymptomatic,
healthy women have their vaginas colonized by this fungus, which is part of the
normal flora, without infection. The problem arises when, for various reasons, there
is an overgrowth of colonies of candida and a decrease in lactobacilli species,
which is when candidiasis is triggered.
What factors may trigger candidiasis?
There are
several hormonal and external factors that may increase the risk of developing
vaginal candidiasis:
What natural alternatives may help us?
Conventional
treatment to deal with vaginal candidiasis uses antifungal drugs, but relapses
are quite common due to the resistance of the fungus to that treatment or the
permanence of risk factors. To cope with this situation and help in the prevention
and treatment of this infection, supplementation with probiotics may contribute
to regenerating vaginal flora, recovering it and keeping it balanced.
Several strains
of probiotics have proven to be efficient here, mainly Lactobacillus
crispatus, Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
Food can also be a great ally for recurrent infections.
Candida is a fungus that feeds mainly on carbohydrates, so it’s advisable to
avoid ultra-processed foods, foods with a high glycemic index, or those
containing yeast, gluten cereals or refined carbohydrates. Instead, the diet
should include green-leafy vegetables, cruciferous, asparagus, artichoke and
red berries.
