How and with what should thrush in women be treated? What methods of treating thrush exist and which method is best to choose?

Vaginal candidiasis (in other words, thrush) is one of the most common diseases. At least 75% of women have encountered this fungal infection of the genital organs at least once during their lives.

Unfortunately, not only the incidence of candidiasis has increased recently. The rate of relapses has increased, and the resistance of the pathogen to standard therapy has increased. Therefore, the question of how to treat thrush in women still remains relevant.

Candidiasis is a striking example of a disease caused by opportunistic microflora. Cells of fungi of the genus Candida are present on the surface skin and mucous membranes, not only in the vagina, but also in the oral cavity and intestines. But with a decrease in the body’s defenses, this flora can cause the development of various clinical symptoms. In the vast majority of cases, candidiasis affects only the superficial layers of the vaginal epithelium. Its deep penetration inhibits systemic immunity, but at the same time it is not able to get rid of the fungus. This fact determines the recurrent course of the disease.

The reasons for the development of thrush are:

long-term, and even more so uncontrolled use of antibiotics;
use of hormonal pills as a means of contraception;
treatment with cytostatics, steroid drugs that have an immunosuppressive effect;
radiation therapy for malignant neoplasms;
metabolic disease;
obesity;
disorders of the endocrine system (especially diabetes mellitus, adrenal dysfunction, thyroid gland, ovaries);
vitamin deficiencies as a result of malfunction digestive system or malnutrition;
dysbacteriosis;
immunodeficiencies of various etiologies(for example, against the background of tuberculosis, AIDS, blood diseases);
non-compliance with rules intimate hygiene;
smoking;
chronic psycho-emotional shocks;
insufficient amount of “lubrication” during sexual intercourse.

The choice of an effective remedy to treat thrush in women is also based on the type of pathogen. Experience shows that in almost 90% of cases the vagina is affected by fungi of the genus Candida albicans, less often by Candida glabra. Against the background of diabetes mellitus, Candida tropicalis is sown.

Manifestations of vaginal candidiasis are usually specific, patients complain of:

intense itching and burning in the vagina and external genitalia;
copious curdled or white discharge, their amount increases during menstruation;
discomfort and unpleasant sensations during sexual intercourse;
swelling of the vaginal mucosa and labia;
pain when urinating.

Treatment of vaginal candidiasis is aimed not only at eliminating the influence of the causative agent of the disease, but also at eliminating its main causes. Therefore, the approach to therapy should be comprehensive and step-by-step. Thrush is not sexually transmitted, but during the treatment period it is recommended to either completely limit sexual relations with a partner or use condoms. Also, do not neglect disposable panty liners.

The general principles of candidiasis therapy are:

identification of aggravating factors and their elimination (if possible);
exclusion of sexually transmitted infections (gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, chlamydia), exacerbation of the genital herpes virus, human papilloma;
differential diagnosis with bacterial vaginosis;
laboratory confirmation of candidiasis;
selection of a medicinal product;
restoration of normal vaginal microflora.

Candidiasis is quite common in men, and it is characterized by an asymptomatic course. Therefore, it is better for both partners to undergo the examination.

The question of how to treat thrush in pregnant women deserves special attention. Candidiasis occurs in approximately 30% of cases during pregnancy. The high incidence of the disease is due to the suppressive effect of progesterone on the immune system. Treatment of thrush in a pregnant woman is carried out under the supervision of a gynecologist.

This condition is a contraindication to the prescription of antibiotics with antifungal activity. The use of drugs such as Diflucan or the relatively inexpensive Clotrimazole (especially in the first trimester) is also not recommended. The use of Fluconazole capsules is excluded. The remedy for treating thrush in a pregnant woman is Pimafucin (the affordable analogues are Ecofucin and Primafungin).

Doctors have nothing against this method of treating candidiasis at home, such as douching with a soda solution, a decoction of string grass or chamomile flowers (of course, in the absence of contraindications), however, they consider them ineffective, and reviews indicate high frequency relapses after such treatment. But it is better to refrain from such a recipe as washing the vagina with garlic infusion.

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Medicines for thrush: therapy for uncomplicated and chronic forms of the disease

The principles of prescribing medications for primary thrush differ from the treatment of chronic forms of the disease. In the second case, much attention is paid to diagnosis. Conduct laboratory test, aimed not only at identifying candidiasis, but also at determining the exact type of yeast-like fungus and its sensitivity to antimycotic drugs.

There are two ways to use medications for thrush. This is oral (that is, in literal translation from Latin “through the mouth”) and local. As a rule, during primary episodes of candidiasis, the doctor prescribes a cream or suppository for insertion into the vagina. The advantage of this method of treatment is the absence of a systemic effect on the body, since the active substance of the drug is practically not absorbed into the bloodstream and remains only on the vaginal mucosa. This is especially important in the first trimester of pregnancy and for nursing mothers, because it is at this time that the risk of developing candidiasis increases.

The disadvantages of local treatment include the occurrence of side effects such as contact dermatitis and disorders of the microflora of the genital organs. In addition, the use of suppositories and creams contributes to the rapid development of resistance of pathogenic fungi to therapy. When using medication for thrush in tablet form, the course of treatment is significantly shortened.

In addition, the active components of the capsules also affect other possible foci of candidiasis infection in the body. Therefore, for chronic forms of fungal infection of the genital organs, many doctors prefer combination therapy.

It consists of the simultaneous use of medication for thrush, both in the form of suppositories and tablets. Almost all experts associate vaginal candidiasis with digestive disorders, in particular with dysbiosis. Therefore, taking probiotics is an integral component of the treatment of this fungal disease. As for the specific drug, they are all sold without a prescription.

You can opt for an expensive imported product (for example, Bio-Gaya, Linex, Bifiform), or choose a cheaper but effective one Russian analogue(Acipol, Atsilakt, Bifiliz). There are also drugs for normalizing vaginal microflora in the form of suppositories. These are Vaginorm, Bifidumbacterin and Lactobacterin. They are sometimes recommended during pregnancy to prevent candidiasis and vaginosis.

Drugs for thrush in women: a review of popular remedies

All existing antifungal drugs for thrush can be divided into several groups. This:

Polyene antibiotics (Nystatin, Levorin, Amphotericin B, Natamycin).
Imidazole derivatives (Ketoconazole, Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Isoconazole, etc.).
Triazole derivatives (Fluconazole, Itraconazole).
Pyridones (Ciclopirox olamine).
Others (Nitrofungin, Decamine, etc.).

One of the first drugs for thrush in women was Nystatin. It has been widely used since the 50s of the twentieth century. But at present its use is limited.

First of all, this is due to its low bioavailability (it does not exceed 3-5%) and the development of resistance to it in almost all Candida strains. Another representatives of polyene antibiotics are Levorin and Amphotericin B. However, now they are also practically not prescribed for vaginal candidiasis due to low efficiency and high toxicity. A more modern and popular drug for thrush in women is Natamycin (Pimafucin). It acts on the cell membrane of the fungus, causing its death. From gastrointestinal tract the medicine is not absorbed, so it is used only topically in the form of suppositories or cream.

Suppositories are inserted into the vagina at night, cream - 2-3 times a day for 6 days. Due to its low toxicity and lack of side effects, doctors believe that Pimafucin is the best suppository for thrush during pregnancy and lactation. When applied topically, Clotrimazole (Candibene, Candide) penetrates well into various layers of the skin, quickly reaching therapeutic concentrations.

Use intravaginally once a day in the form of tablets of 100 mg for 6-12 days or 500 mg for 1-6 days. The medicine is also available in the form of a 1% cream. Sometimes redness and slight itching in the vagina may occur after use. Suppositories with ketoconazole Livarol are a drug for thrush.

The course of treatment lasts from 3 to 5 days, depending on the course of the disease, and the method of application differs little from other antifungal agents for topical use - 1 suppository once a day. Special mention should be made of the complex drug Neo-Penotran. It contains two components - the fungicidal miconazole and the antimicrobial metronidazole.

Suppositories are inserted using a disposable fingertip deep into the vagina, one at night for two weeks or twice a day (morning and evening) for 7 days. Neo-Pentran is also suitable for the treatment of recurrent and resistant to other treatment candidiasis, but the course of therapy lasts twice as long - 2 suppositories per day for two weeks.

As for the cost, the price of these drugs for thrush ranges from:

Pimafucin. A package of three suppositories costs 350 rubles, cream - 325 rubles.
Clotrimazole. Price for vaginal tablets(6 pieces of 100 mg each) - up to 30 rubles, cream - from 80 to 150 rubles, depending on the manufacturer. An analogue of Candida in the form of capsules for insertion into the vagina can be purchased for 80 rubles.
Livarol. Despite the fact that this drug for thrush is domestically produced, it does not belong to the budget segment. The price for a package of 5 suppositories of 400 mg is 500 rubles.
Neo-Penotran. The cost of 14 suppositories in a standard dosage (500 mg metronidazole + 100 mg miconazole) is 850 rubles, Neo-Penotran Forte (750 mg + 200 mg, respectively, 7 suppositories in a box) - 1020 rubles. The analogue of the drug Klion - D is cheaper - 400 rubles, but it contains 100 mg of metronidazole, but this does not particularly affect the treatment of thrush.

Priority in the systemic treatment of candidiasis is given to Fluconazole (Diflucan, Mikosist, Forkan, etc.). The drug at the cellular level inhibits the synthesis of sterols necessary for the life of fungi.

When taken orally, it is well and almost completely absorbed from the digestive tract, maximum concentration is achieved on average an hour after application.

The half-life is up to 30 hours, which in many cases allows you to take only one tablet (150 mg) to completely get rid of candidiasis. These thrush capsules are well tolerated and cause very few side effects. But for recurrent forms of the disease, a single dose of 150 mg is not enough.

At this dosage, the drug should be taken three times with an interval of 3 days. Doctors recommend taking it for the prevention of vaginal candidiasis, 1 capsule on the first day of each menstrual cycle for 6 months. Analogs of Fluconazole under others trade names so many. Their prices also differ.

The cheapest is domestic Fluconazole (40 - 50 rubles per package containing 1 capsule of 150 mg). Slovak Fluconazole is a little more expensive - up to 80 rubles. The price of one Flucostat tablet is 200 rubles. But Diflucan is considered the most expensive (but it should be said that, according to reviews, this drug for thrush is also the most effective). Its cost is 970 rubles for 4 tablets.

An effective remedy for thrush: traditional medicine recipes

Almost all doctors have an ambiguous attitude towards non-traditional treatment of candidiasis. But reviews on forums indicate that you can prepare an effective remedy for thrush yourself.

In half a liter of warm water, dilute a little laundry soap, 5 drops of iodine, 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar and 1 tsp. soda Use the solution for daily douching.
Take 100 g of dry wormwood and sift it. The resulting powder should be consumed orally (directly in dry form, washed down with water 4-5 times a day), and from the remainder prepare a decoction at the rate of 1 tsp. per liter of hot water. Leave until cool, strain and use for douching.
For intimate hygiene, it is also recommended to use a decoction of orris roots (1 tablespoon per glass). Please note that garden flowers are not suitable, you need a “wild” plant, popularly called “cockerels”.

During the treatment of candidiasis, many women ask whether such treatment is necessary for their sexual partner. As mentioned above, thrush is not transmitted during sex; it is a disease often caused by problems with the immune system or digestion. However, a man should undergo examination even in the absence of external symptoms. Typically, fluconazole is used for treatment in a standard dosage.

Possible complications of candidiasis include, first of all, the risk of infection spreading to the skin of the perineum and inner thighs or to the cervix, which is undoubtedly more dangerous. This is especially true for women with immunodeficiency. Such an infection is fraught with pregnancy complications and difficulties with conception and childbirth in the future. Therefore, it is better to choose an effective remedy for thrush and stop the symptoms of the disease at the initial stages.

How to cure thrush quickly and reliably? This question worries many women who are faced with the unpleasant manifestations of this disease. Most often, not understanding the causes and mechanism of the pathology, women buy medications at the pharmacy or use traditional medicine methods and try to get rid of the disease on their own. However, it can have a different course, and often requires persistent treatment over a long period of time with specially selected agents.

So what is thrush and how to treat it correctly?

Causes and clinical manifestations of the disease

Why do women begin to develop thrush, and what are the causes of its manifestation? unpleasant symptoms requiring specific treatment? And is it possible to get rid of the disease on your own without turning to doctors? After all, often women, not fully understanding what candidiasis is, buy products at the pharmacy, based only on the advice of pharmacists or friends. Such amateur activity, unfortunately, most often leads to the transition of the pathology to a chronic or recurrent form, since the symptoms of thrush in a woman continue to develop, and drug treatment does not bring any results.

Fungi of the genus Candida, which are classified as opportunistic microorganisms, are always present in the body of any person. This microflora is the cause of the occurrence and manifestation of thrush, which requires treatment from a specialist. Usually Candida is in the body without showing its presence in any way and without causing concern to the woman. But when the body’s defenses decrease, the immune system loses control over the vital processes of the fungus, and it begins to actively multiply. This is how thrush develops, and its treatment requires preliminary special laboratory tests.

Excessive nervous or physical exercise, hypothermia or overheating. Previous colds or infectious diseases can also lead to the development of thrush. And taking antibiotics or hormonal drugs creates favorable conditions for the life and proliferation of the fungus. Due to hormonal imbalance, there is a high probability of developing pathology in diabetes mellitus, obesity, and also during pregnancy. Adverse habits also increase the likelihood of developing thrush: smoking tobacco, drinking alcohol. An unbalanced daily diet, consisting mainly of fatty and fried foods, and a deficiency of vitamins, which also causes the development of pathology.

In order for the treatment of candidiasis in women to be effective, it is necessary to understand the causes and mechanism of development of the pathology.

The disease has its own characteristic manifestations. What does thrush look like in women? Most often, patients seek help when a white, cheesy coating appears in the vagina and vulva, accompanied by unpleasant sensations and itching. But there are other signs that indicate the development of thrush in a woman, requiring treatment with medications. These symptoms include:

pain in the vagina when urinating, as well as during sexual intercourse;
itching sensations in the genital area;
burning sensation in the vulva and vagina.

With absence timely treatment Over time, liquid or curdled discharge appears, leaving a white coating on the mucous membranes and having an unpleasant odor.

General principles of treatment

Effective treatment of thrush in women is only possible with strict observance all advice from the attending physician. The complex of therapeutic measures includes not only taking medications, but also diagnostic examination. Such an analysis will accurately answer the question of how to cure thrush quickly without developing complications and side effects.

General rules for the treatment of candidiasis include the following points:

taking a smear for analysis. It is possible to determine exactly what and how to more effectively treat thrush in a particular woman only after a bacteriological study has been carried out. In the laboratory, the type of candida that caused the disease will not only be determined, but the resistance of the pathogen to medicines. This will allow the doctor to select the most suitable options for treating the woman. radical means from thrush;
In case of thrush in women, her sexual partner is also treated in parallel, regardless of whether he has manifestations of the pathology or not. This measure will help avoid re-infection of the patient in the future. Therapy is selected individually for men and women and may differ. In order to quickly and effectively, you should not independently treat a man with the drug that the doctor prescribed to her, even if these are the most effective drugs from her point of view;
medications should be taken at regular intervals. This approach will completely suppress fungal mycelium;
Medicines for thrush should be taken for as many days as prescribed by the attending physician, even if all manifestations of the disease completely disappear. Self-discontinuation of the drug ahead of time can lead not only to an exacerbation of candidiasis, but also to its transition to more severe and intractable forms.

On treatment methods and choices medicines The form of the disease has a great influence. Candidiasis in women can be of three types: primary, recurrent and chronic. And before curing thrush in a woman, it is necessary to determine the course of the disease.

Primary thrush is diagnosed in cases where the woman has not previously had a single episode of the disease in her anamnesis. Almost all women who started on time specific therapy under the supervision of a doctor, they were quickly and reliably cured of thrush. In the absence of proper treatment, the pathology becomes chronic or recurrent.

If a woman develops thrush, both partners should undergo a bacteriological examination before treating it.

In the recurrent form of the disease, exacerbations occur from 4 to 12 times during the year. As a rule, such a pathology develops due to untimely or inadequate treatment of the primary disease.

The chronic course of candidiasis is manifested by erased symptoms that do not attract the attention of a woman.

Local therapy

If candidiasis appears for the first time in women, then it is enough to undergo a course of therapy with topical drugs. Typically, the full course of treatment for thrush takes from ten days to two weeks. An important condition for the complete cure of the pathology is the timeliness and continuity of drug administration. At the same time, the drugs used make it possible to treat thrush not only quickly and reliably, but also inexpensively.

Also local treatment thrush is included in complex therapy for recurrent and chronic forms of the disease. For primary candidiasis in women, local treatment is carried out with vaginal tablets, suppositories, creams or gels, as well as solutions.

What topical medications can cure thrush in women? The following methods are most often successfully used:

ointments Pimafucin, Candide, Zalain, Clotrimazole. Inserted into the vagina using a tampon 1 to 4 times a day for two weeks;
suppositories with Ketoconazole, Sertaconazole, Fluconazole, Livarol, Nystatin are inserted into the vagina 2 - 4 times a day for 10 - 15 days;
Miramistin, Canesten, Chlorhexidine, Sodium Tetraborate and others solutions will help to quickly cure thrush in girls. Drugs available in liquid dosage form, used for douching, as well as toileting the external genitalia;
Vaginal tablets will also help to quickly cure thrush: Flucostat, Mikosist, Clotrimazole, Terzhinan.

The introduction of intravaginal products should be carried out only after careful hygienic treatment of the perineal area. The drugs are inserted into the vagina while lying on your back. Also, after the procedure, you should remain in a horizontal position for about half an hour. This will allow the medicine to penetrate into all the folds in the vagina and os of the uterus.

Local treatment will be highly effective only if equal time intervals are observed between procedures for introducing drugs into the vagina.

General treatment

How to properly treat thrush in neglected form? In a chronic or recurrent course, the disease can also affect other internal organs. In this case, fungal cells become resistant to fungicidal and fungistatic drugs. Therefore, before treating advanced thrush in women, the doctor will definitely conduct bacteriological examination smear to determine the resistance of the pathogen to various groups of drugs. Before treating a chronic infection or in women, drugs are applied in a laboratory setting to a colony of fungus cultured from the patient. For therapeutic purposes, drugs of those groups are used, the active ingredients of which have shown the greatest aggression towards the pathogen.

If thrush is diagnosed in an advanced form, the treatment will pass quickly and effectively only under the condition of a complex effect, in which local agents are supplemented with oral drugs of systemic action. This approach to therapy will not only locally suppress fungal colonies, but also destroy its spores throughout the body, restore the normal acid-base balance of the mucous membranes and dermis, balance the amount of beneficial microflora, and also normalize the functioning of the immune system.

How to treat candidiasis in women systemic drugs? Currently, the following groups of oral tablets are used for these purposes:

containing fluconazole. This active substance is contained in such products as Fluconazole, Diflazon, Diflucan, Mikosist. In therapy, drugs containing 150 mg are used active substance in one tablet. The medicine is taken once. The therapeutic effect begins to be felt a few hours after taking the product;
based on intraconazole. This line is represented by such drugs as Rumikoz, Irunin, Orungal, Intraconazole. The dosage of the medicine is selected by the doctor individually depending on the severity of the pathology. The course of treatment for thrush in women lasts from one week to one and a half months;
containing ketoconazole as the main active ingredient. From this group, Ketoconazole, Nizoral, and Dermazole are most often chosen. The drugs are taken 1 - 2 tablets once a day. Duration of therapy is from 5 to 7 days.

Correctly selected specific drugs systemic therapy will allow you to treat thrush quickly and effectively, without causing the pathology to become chronic. Self-medication of such a seemingly simple disease can lead to increased resistance of fungi to agents with fungicidal and fungistatic properties, which will complicate radical treatment and lead to serious complications.

Immune drug therapy

For women, treating thrush often presents an insoluble problem. Despite following all the doctor’s recommendations and taking medications, it can be quite difficult to get rid of the disease. Most often, such situations arise when agents that do not have a direct effect on the pathogen are neglected.

How to quickly and effectively cure thrush with nonspecific drugs? To achieve high effectiveness of therapy for any pathology, first of all, the cause that led to the development of the disease should be eliminated. The trigger for a sharp increase in the population of fungal microflora in the body is a malfunction of the defenses. Therefore, to eliminate the cause of thrush in women, treatment is supplemented by a group of drugs that have a stimulating and modulating effect on immune system. This approach to treatment will allow you to mobilize the body’s own forces to fight the fungus in all organs and systems, which will significantly speed up the healing process and prevent the development of complications.

Complex treatment of all forms of thrush in women necessarily includes taking immunomodulating and immunostimulating drugs. In order to effectively treat thrush in women and create good reactivity of the body’s general and local defenses, it is better to take the following medications:

Cycloferon. In addition to the immunomodulatory effect, it has an antimycotic and antibacterial effect. This drug is available in the form of liniment to restore local immunity and solutions for parenteral administration to influence general immunity.
Viferon. Combined immunomodulator. Increases the concentration of α-interferon in the blood. Available in the form of suppositories or ointments for intravaginal administration.
Genferon. Vaginal suppositories that enhance local immunity and have a disinfecting effect. Inserted into the vagina twice a day with an interval of 12 hours. The duration of treatment, depending on the severity of the pathology, ranges from 2 to 12 weeks.
Polyoxidonium. Vaginal suppositories are used to increase local immunity; tablets and solutions for parenteral administration have a systemic effect on the body. The therapeutic course is 10 days.

Immune drugs have a number of contraindications for use. Therefore, when choosing drugs that affect the state of the body’s defenses, it is advisable to first consult with an immunologist.

Before treating thrush in girls, it is advisable to conduct an immunological examination to determine the gap in the defense system. This will allow you to choose the most effective drug without impairing other indicators of the activity of protective blood cells. The dosage of these drugs is selected by the doctor individually, depending on the blood immunogram parameters.

Additional Methods

Treatment of a disease such as thrush in women also includes additional measures, increasing the body’s resistance, as well as creating conditions unsuitable for the life of fungal microflora. A big role is played in this daily diet, daily routine and lifestyle.

As auxiliary therapeutic measures When treating thrush, doctors strongly recommend spending as much time as possible on fresh air. Thus, part of the route to work and home can be walked on streets without heavy traffic. Leisurely walks before bed in a nearby park or square will also help strengthen the body's resistance to fungal aggression.

Since overwork contributes to a decrease in immunity, due attention should be paid to alternating periods of intense physical and mental activity and rest.

Comprehensive treatment of thrush also includes following a certain diet. An acidic environment is most favorable for the functioning of fungal microflora. Therefore, you should exclude from your daily diet foods that help lower the pH in the body and try to saturate your diet as much as possible with foods that contribute to the alkalization of internal environments.

So, you need to give up fatty, fried, canned and smoked foods, alcoholic and sweet drinks, baked goods, as well as any food containing chocolate.

What foods can be consumed during the treatment of pathology?

The daily menu should include as many fresh vegetables and fruits, leafy greens, a variety of cereals, seafood, and lactic acid products as possible;
Nuts, dried fruits, and citrus fruits will also be useful;
You should also avoid dehydration. Therefore, you should drink at least two liters of clean water a day.

Bifidobacteria will also help the body defeat female candidiasis. Probiotic preparations such as Linex, Bifidumbacterin, Bifiform, Hilak and others will help saturate the body with them.

Strengthening the immune system will also help to take vitamin complexes, containing fat-soluble E and A and water-soluble B and C.

Rules during therapy

How to quickly cure thrush? In order for the treatment to be effective and quick, you should additionally adhere to simple rules:

carry out hygiene procedures daily. In the morning and evening, toileting of the external genitalia and perineal area is mandatory. However, you should not use solid or liquid soap containing cosmetic additives and fragrances. During the period of treatment for candidiasis, it is best to use baby soap. After hygiene procedures, you should wear clean underwear;
also, for washing, you need to allocate a separate towel, which, in order to prevent reinfection, should be changed daily;
In order for the treatment to be radical and thrush in women to no longer recur after a course of therapy, attention should be paid to underwear. Until complete recovery, you must abandon panties made of synthetic materials in favor of cotton ones. In this case, the underwear should fit tightly to the body, but not be tight, otherwise the disruption of blood flow will adversely affect the course of the disease;
Treatment of thrush in women can be complicated by the use of daily sanitary pads, therefore, if signs of pathology appear, it is better to refuse them;
It is also advisable to limit sexual contact throughout the entire duration of therapy.

To quickly cure thrush in women so that the disease does not return, you need not only to complete a full course of specific and additional treatment, but also follow all doctor’s recommendations regarding personal hygiene and lifestyle.

Thrush is a disease that is common among women. Almost every one of them was faced with the question of how to cure thrush, and it is worth paying attention to the fact that most of women can independently make a diagnosis and carry out treatment.

Let us note right away that self-medication is not the best option.

If you really want to find out how to cure thrush quickly and permanently, be sure to contact qualified specialists.

Treatment of thrush during pregnancy

Thrush or vulvovaginal candidiasis is an infectious disease that is accompanied by painful sensations, itching, discharge of masses of curd consistency, urination problems. All these symptoms indicate the development of thrush in women.

There are cases when a woman who is preparing to become a mother develops candidiasis. We will tell you below how to deal with this and what to do.

Candidiasis during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is the most difficult to treat. After all, at first, when the fetus begins to “lay down” and form organs, the use of any medications and drugs is strongly not recommended. Fortunately for the expectant mother, thrush in the first stages of pregnancy is very rare.

As for the subsequent trimesters, fortunately, the arsenal of drugs is very wide. At the same time, it is worth noting that during pregnancy it is impossible to cure thrush 100%. Therefore, there is a possibility that the course of treatment must be completed several times.

The course of treatment for thrush during pregnancy should be taken under the supervision of a doctor. At the same time, it is permissible to use medications and preparations in the form of ointments and suppositories, which are used exclusively topically.

It is prohibited to carry out any type of douching or use of tablets without a doctor’s prescription.

Treatment of chronic thrush in women

Candidiasis, which often worries women, becomes chronic over time. And already usual treatment in the form of antifungal tablets is in vain. Many people wonder what to do in this case?

The action plan should be as follows:

Contact a gynecologist.
Undergo an extensive examination.
Take an immunogram.

During therapy, not only medications and drugs against fungi are used, but also immunomodulators.

After the process of fighting fungi and increasing immunity is completed, it is necessary to restore the vaginal microflora.

At this stage, it is necessary to “populate” beneficial bacteria. This can be done with the help of suppositories and tablets that contain bifidobacteria or lactobacilli.

It also happens that chronic candidiasis is treated with physical procedures. The purpose of these procedures is to improve the local immunity of the vagina.

How to treat thrush at home

If you do not have the time or opportunity to visit your gynecologist, and you have developed thrush and you need to get rid of it quickly, then we will tell you how to get rid of Candida fungus at home.

Soda against fungus

Perhaps this is the most effective remedy that promotes rapid treatment of candidiasis at home. Treatment of thrush in a woman with baking soda can be done as follows:

Douching.
Daily washing with soda solution.
Taking a soda bath for 20 minutes.

To prepare the solution, you need to dilute 1 tablespoon of soda and a teaspoon of iodine per liter of boiled water.

Essential oils

This type of therapy is effective if you use the right oil, which has an antifungal effect. It is important to note that this is a concentrate that must be diluted so as not to damage the vaginal mucosa.

There are two types of treatment in this way, namely:

1. Washing

To do this, mix 2 drops of oil with a teaspoon of vodka. The resulting mixture must be diluted in 0.5 liters of water.

2. Scented bath

To do this, mix 8 ml with 2 ml of lavender. Add no more than 2 drops of the prepared mixture to the bath. Taking a bath should last no more than 10 minutes.

We hasten to note that any superficial treatment does not guarantee the disappearance of the disease - forever. This method of treatment is rather intended to temporarily and quickly eliminate discomfort.

How to cure thrush with folk remedies

Previously, before the advent of many drugs, people treated thrush more available means and methods. We have also selected the most effective methods of treating thrush with folk remedies.

Herbal tea or tincture. It is recommended to wash yourself for 2-3 days with a tincture or decoction of the following herbs: calendula, yarrow.
Carrot juice. To eliminate the disease, it is recommended to consume two glasses of freshly squeezed carrot juice. It is recommended to drink juice before meals.
Salt, soda and iodine. Due to its properties, each component creates a strong complex to combat a disease called candidiasis.
Pour 2 tablespoons of salt into boiling water, boil for 1-2 minutes, then cool to a temperature of 40 degrees, add 1 tbsp. a spoonful of soda and 10-12 drops of iodine tincture. Do douching for 5 days, twice a day.

Preparations and medicines for thrush

In order for the treatment of thrush to have an effective effect and help you eradicate the disease forever, you need to carry out a set of measures, including taking medications and drugs against thrush.

In order to cure thrush, there are the following types of drugs:

Drugs local impact : Fluconazole, Ketoconazole, Pitmafucin, Intraconazole.
Systemic medications: these are medications that affect not only the source of inflammation, but also the entire body as a whole.

There are a huge number of different drugs that effectively relieve a woman of such a nuisance as thrush, but correct treatment may be prescribed by a doctor after the tests have been done.

Summarizing

Please note that treatment for thrush should be comprehensive after all tests have been completed. After all, this is the only way you can get rid of the disease forever.

Please note that simply taking a pill or lighting a candle will only make you forget about thrush for a while.

Therefore, if you want to find out how to cure thrush quickly and effectively, then you should in any case contact a qualified specialist.

When treating candidiasis, you should remember the Chinese proverb: it is not the consequences that need to be treated, but the cause of the disease!

Thrush or candidiasis in women- a disease caused by fungi of the genus Candida. If these microorganisms have developed on the mucous membrane of the vagina and external genitalia, then they speak of vaginal candidiasis.

This disease affects not only women of childbearing age who are active sex life, but also young girls and those who have reached advanced years. The reason is simple: candidiasis occurs not only after contact with a sick sexual partner. It can be a consequence of the active reproduction of Candida, which were previously part of the normal microflora.

With candidiasis, women complain of copious curdled vaginal discharge and itching in the genital area. According to statistics, 70% of gynecologist patients who come with such problems are diagnosed with thrush. This disease is not a sexually transmitted disease. Compared to them, it is less dangerous and much easier to treat.

The disease affects women on all continents, regardless of age and wealth. Moreover, the incidence is higher in hot countries. Statistics show that city residents suffer more from candidiasis. 30-40% of women suffered from thrush during pregnancy. During this period, the risk of getting sick increases 2-3 times.

75% of the fair sex have suffered from candidiasis, and the majority more than once. Since this disease has the unpleasant property of returning. So in 5% the diagnosis is recurrent candidiasis. In this case, exacerbations occur 4 or more times a year.

Behind last years The number of cases of thrush is steadily increasing. This is due to uncontrolled use of antibiotics and a decrease in the level of immunity. If thrush is not treated in time, then from a minor ailment it can turn into serious problem when fungi affect most internal organs.

Composition of normal microflora of the vagina and external genitalia

The genitals of girls begin to be colonized by microorganisms within a few hours after birth. This is the moment when microflora begins to form. From the first day of life, various types of bacteria constantly live in the vagina and external genitalia. There are more than 60 of them. Usually these microorganisms do not cause diseases and do not harm the body.

This set varies depending on the woman’s age, phase of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and the presence of a permanent sexual partner. From time to time, pathogenic bacteria enter the vagina. But if their number is not large, then representatives of the microflora and immune cells destroy these microorganisms.

The vagina contains:

lactobacilli
bifidobacteria
enterococci
clostridia
coagulase-negative staphylococci
coliform bacteria
candida

The majority of microorganisms in the body of a healthy woman are various types of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria - up to 90%. They provide an optimal pH level of up to 3.8-4.5 (in adult women). If their number decreases, then the vaginal environment becomes slightly alkaline and the pH exceeds 6. This leads to the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria and the development of inflammatory processes.

In almost 80% of cases, Candida is present in a woman’s microflora. They are represented by single inactive round cells and do not form mycelial threads (pseudo-mycelium).

Normal microflora in a woman’s body performs important functions:

Releases beneficial enzymes that provide the necessary acidity
Promotes the formation of vitamins
Maintains the strength of local immunity
Prevents the penetration of foreign bacteria that can cause disease.

The vaginal microflora has a balanced composition. At the same time, some bacteria regulate the number of others. This is how lactic acid bacteria produce acid, which inhibits the excessive proliferation of Candida. Therefore, normally, fungi found in the vagina do not cause thrush.

Causes of thrush

Why thrush occurs is one of the most common questions among women. After all, this problem is very common. Unpleasant sensations arise at the most inopportune moment. This fungal disease destroys intimate relationships and ruins everyday life.

You can become infected with candidiasis from a sexual partner. Especially if the man has obvious signs this disease or he is a carrier of fungi. However, this reason is far from the most common. Much more often, thrush occurs as a consequence of decreased immunity and disruption of the natural balance of the microflora of the genital organs.

There are many factors that provoke the development of vaginal candidiasis in women.

Decreased body defenses as a result of chronic diseases or after previous infections.
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy and before menstruation.
Change hormonal levels during menopause.
Application hormonal contraceptives .
Long-term use antibiotics, corticosteroids and cytostatic drugs.
Intestinal dysbiosis, and fungi can be introduced into the vagina.
Climate change, which entails adaptation to new conditions and water composition.
Using intimate hygiene products: intimate gels, soaps, shower gels containing a lot of alkali and fragrances.
Using panty liners. They interfere with air access to the genitals, increasing humidity.
Deodorized tampons and pads cause allergic reactions and disrupt the condition of the mucous membrane.
Wearing underwear made of synthetic fabrics, narrow and tight. The most common culprit for thrush is thongs.
Rich food confectionery products and carbohydrate dishes, strong coffee, carbonated drinks, yeast baked goods, spicy and fatty delicacies, ketchup and mayonnaise.
Avitaminosis entails a decrease in the body's resistance and a deterioration in the condition of the skin and mucous membranes.
Obesity- favorable conditions for the proliferation of fungi are created in the folds of the body.
Metabolic disorders. A striking example is diabetes mellitus. It not only weakens local immunity, but also increases the amount of carbohydrates in cells, which is a good breeding ground for microorganisms.
Smoking causes vasospasm and impairs blood circulation, including in the genitals.
Sexual intercourse with a dry vagina and other actions that can lead to microtraumas on the genital mucosa. Through them, Candida can penetrate deep into the tissues.
Chronic stress, severe mental and physical stress, overwork, lack of sleep.

The action of these factors leads to a decrease in the number of lactobacilli that create a protective microfilm. They produce less lactic acid, and an alkaline environment is formed in the vagina. Fungi and other bacteria penetrate the cells of the mucous membrane and thin skin of the external genitalia. There they begin to actively reproduce, feeding on glycogen and destroying host cells. If left untreated, the inflammatory process gradually spreads.

What are the symptoms of thrush and what are they associated with?

Pain during intercourse.
Most often, Candida multiplication begins on the vaginal mucosa. They destroy upper cells epithelium, gradually affecting deeper layers. In this case, tiny lesions are formed that resemble ulcers. The mucous membrane of the vaginal walls becomes inflamed and painful. Therefore, during sexual intercourse, a woman experiences pain and other unpleasant sensations.

Swelling of the genital organs.
Inflammation causes the vaginal walls to swell. This occurs due to the fact that small vessels on the surface of the mucosa expand. In this way, the body tries to eliminate the toxins released by Candida. Blood circulation increases, and the tissue of the genital organs is saturated with fluid released through the walls of the capillaries.

White coating and curdled discharge.
Gradually, the number of fungi increases and the colonies grow. They look like a whitish coating on the genitals. An inflammatory process begins, which is accompanied by copious vaginal discharge. They look like white curdled masses or curdled milk. These are mainly fungal mycelium, leukocytes and damaged cells mucous membrane.

Itching and burning.
Candida feeds on glycogen stores in cells. When this carbohydrate is broken down, acids are formed. They cause itching and burning in the vagina and irritate the skin of the genital organs damaged by Candida, while the woman feels severe discomfort. These symptoms are worse after urinating or washing. Therefore, each time the skin in this area must be dried. It is advisable to use soft paper towels to avoid further injury.

Thrush rash.
The inflammatory process with thrush also extends to the vestibule of the vagina, labia majora and labia minora. On the skin of the genital organs, stratification of the epidermis occurs as a result of the activity of fungi, and small burgundy pimples-vesicles with liquid contents inside - vesicles - are formed. After a day or two, they burst and small erosions and crusts form in their place.

Spread to nearby skin areas.
Signs of candidiasis: redness, small rash, itching, formation white plaque can also occur in the perineum, on the skin of the intergluteal and inguinal folds. More often, this form of the disease occurs in women who have excess weight.

Deterioration of general condition.
Itching, constant discomfort and unpleasant sensations cause nervousness, attacks bad mood, as well as sleep disturbance. The latter is due to the fact that the burning sensation intensifies at night. Unpleasant symptoms increase after long walking and during menstruation.

Urethritis and cystitis with thrush.
Frequent urination and the appearance of pain indicate that Candida has penetrated into the urinary system and caused urethritis and cystitis. Another sign that the inflammatory process has spread to other organs is the appearance of aching pain in the lower abdomen. This may result in an increase in temperature. If you notice such symptoms, be sure to consult a doctor and do not self-medicate.

Diagnosis of thrush

If you notice signs of thrush, contact your gynecologist. This is especially necessary to do if the appearance of unpleasant sensations was preceded by unprotected sexual contact. The fact is that the symptoms of candidiasis are in many ways similar to the manifestations dangerous infections sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, mucous membranes damaged by fungi become vulnerable to pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, admission only antifungal drugs not enough. A visit to a specialist is mandatory if signs of thrush appear again soon after treatment. Otherwise, the disease may become chronic.

In order to clarify the diagnosis, the doctor takes a smear of the contents of the vagina. Flora smear ( gynecological smear, bacterioscopy) necessary to determine the composition of the microflora and the presence of pathogenic bacteria. Ideally, the analysis should contain 90% lactobacilli. Gardnerella and Candida may be present in single copies. But microorganisms such as Trichomonas should not exist.

In the laboratory, a sample of vaginal contents is examined under a microscope and the number of immune cells, leukocytes and bacteria, and the presence of Candida pseudomycelium are determined.

In some cases, they carry out microflora seeding on special nutrient media. As a result, it is possible to determine which of the 150 species of Candida caused inflammation, and to which medications these microorganisms are most sensitive. This must be done if a woman suffers from recurrent thrush.

Also informative method research is colcoscopy - examination of the vagina special device colcoscope. The doctor applies Lugol's solution to the vaginal walls. If after this small inclusions in the form of semolina are clearly visible on them, then this indicates the presence of thrush.

If necessary, the doctor prescribes an additional test for sexually transmitted infections, a stool test for dysbacteriosis, an immunogram, an analysis aimed at identifying diabetes mellitus - a glycemic profile with a load.

In the event that the gynecologist believes that thrush is caused by chronic diseases, then he will advise you to contact a therapist, endocrinologist or immunologist.

How to treat thrush

Vaginal candidiasis should be treated by a gynecologist. Self-administration of medications can lead to thrush becoming chronic. At the same time, the fungus becomes resistant to the drugs, and it becomes much more difficult to get rid of it. In this article we will give answers to the questions that most often arise in women when treating candidiasis.

How to treat thrush during pregnancy?

Treatment must be carried out under the supervision of a gynecologist. He prescribes drugs that are non-toxic, are little absorbed into the blood, do not harm the child and have maximum therapeutic effect. Almost always this is a local treatment - Pimafucin suppositories. The drug causes destruction of the walls of the fungal cell and leads to its death. This remedy can be used both in the first weeks and immediately before childbirth.

Another drug approved during pregnancy is Terzhinan. It contains the antifungal antibiotic Nystatin. But besides this, it contains substances that fight bacteria. Treatment can be supplemented with a complex of vitamins to support immunity.

Drugs in tablets that have a systemic effect on the body are usually not used.

During pregnancy, it is better to refrain from douching. With the pressure of fluid, you can introduce an infection into the uterine cavity. This procedure can only be prescribed by a doctor exceptional cases. Instead of douching, it is better to use a weak soda solution, chamomile and calendula infusions for washing.

What suppositories are effective for treating thrush?

Suppositories and vaginal tablets for the treatment of thrush are local treatments. They are prescribed when the lesions are not deep and no complications have arisen. Here is a list of the most effective remedies for thrush. The active substance is indicated in the arms.

Pimafucin (Natamycin) is the least toxic. Can be used during pregnancy. Causes the death of various fungi. Candles are used before bedtime. They quickly relieve symptoms, but treatment must be continued for another 2-3 days after improvement. On average, the course is 3-6 days.

Antifungol, Yenamazole 100, Candibene, Kanesten, Kanizon, (Clotrimazole) its components dissolve the Candida shell. Suppositories or vaginal tablets are inserted into the vagina once a day before bedtime. The course of treatment is 6-7 days.

Gyno-Travogen Ovulum (Isoconazole) disrupts the permeability of the cell wall of fungi. Has antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects. Quickly eliminates itching. Used to treat forms of fungi that are resistant to other agents. A suppository (candle) is inserted deep into the vagina before bedtime once a day. The course of treatment is 3 days.

Ginezol 7, Gino-Daktarin, Klion-D 100 (Miconazole) - destroys fungi and some bacteria. Treatment lasts 14 days. One suppository deep into the vagina before bed.

Polygynax, Terzhinan (Nystatin) - these vaginal tablets must be moistened before insertion into the vagina.
Use one before bed for 10 days.
It should be noted that minor itching and other discomfort may occur for two weeks after treatment.

Which tablets are effective in treating thrush?

Treating thrush with tablets has several advantages. You will get rid of unpleasant symptoms in 1-3 days. While treatment with suppositories, vaginal tablets and gels takes an average of a week. Taking the tablets provides comprehensive treatment of fungi in all organs. Therefore, the likelihood is reduced reappearance thrush. If the course of the disease is mild, then one drug will be enough. Otherwise, you will need to take several antifungal agents different groups. To enhance the effect and relieve itching, local treatment in the form of creams or suppositories is additionally prescribed.

There are several types of drugs designed to combat fungi. They have different mechanisms of action, but they all lead to the death of Candida and the destruction of their mycelium.

Here is a list of substances that destroy fungi and drugs based on them:

Fluconazole (Diflucan, Mikosist, Medoflucon, Forkan) - a single dose of 150 mg of the drug is sufficient.

Ketoconazole (Ketoconazole, Nizoral) - 1-2 tablets per day. Course 5 days.

Natamycin (Pimafucin) - 1 tablet for 3-5 days.

Miconazole (Miconazole, Micatin, Funginazole) - take 1 tablet for three days.

Nystatin (Nystatin) - 1 tablet 4 times a day. The treatment period is 10-14 days.

These drugs should not be taken by pregnant women to treat thrush. To prevent exacerbations of candidiasis in the future, it is advisable that both sexual partners undergo treatment.

How to treat thrush at home?

Treatment for thrush almost always occurs at home. Ideally, it should be done after consultation with a doctor. Traditional medicine has many benefits. They don't provide side effects, non-toxic and completely safe. However, in terms of speed of treatment, they are significantly inferior to drugs.

To relieve itching and prevent bacterial complications, wash and douche with a soda solution. In 0.5 liters of warm boiled water you need to dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Repeat the procedure 2 times a day.

This composition has a strong antifungal and anti-inflammatory effect. Take 5 tablespoons of a mixture of equal parts of oak bark, chamomile, nettle and knotweed. Pour in a liter of water and bring to a boil. Cool, strain and use for douching in the morning and evening.

Tampons with sea buckthorn oil heal erosions on the mucous membrane and relieve inflammation. Soak a tampon made of several layers of gauze with pharmaceutical sea buckthorn oil and insert it overnight.

Garlic oil tampons are effective in getting rid of Candida. To prepare the product, you need to peel and chop 5 large cloves of garlic and pour in 50 ml of refined vegetable oil. Leave for 3 hours, stir and strain. Soak a tampon with this product and insert it into the vagina for 2 hours. If it occurs strong burning sensation, then the procedure must be stopped. Garlic phytoncides are a very powerful remedy. Therefore, it is recommended to eat several cloves daily.

To restore normal vaginal microflora, tampons with bifidumbacterin are used. Dilute an ampoule of this drug in a tablespoon of refined vegetable oil. Soak a tampon and insert it into the vagina for 1 hour. American doctors recommend lubricating the mucous membrane with pure natural yogurt without flavoring additives. This may be a pure culture of lactobacilli, which are sold in pharmacies.

If you are not allergic to honey, then you can dilute it with water in a ratio of 1:10 and lubricate the affected areas of the mucous membrane.

To wash, use tar soap or brown laundry soap. Its components prevent the proliferation of microorganisms.

To ensure that thrush does not return after some time, it is necessary to continue the procedures for another 2-3 days after the symptoms of the disease disappear. Folk remedies It is better to use it as an addition to treatment prescribed by a doctor.

What medications should be used to treat thrush?

To get rid of thrush forever, one drug is not enough. It is necessary to reduce the number of Candida to normal indicators, cure damage to the mucous membrane that has arisen as a result of the disease. After this, you can begin to normalize the microflora in order to increase the number of lactobacilli. You also need to strengthen your immune system.

Therefore for complex treatment thrushes are used various groups drugs.

Antifungal agents (antimycotics) destroy the bulk of Candida. These are products based on Fluconazole, Clotrimazole, Iconazole, Ketoconazole. In the form of suppositories and creams for local treatment of the genital organs, as well as in the form of tablets and capsules for oral administration.

Antibiotics for the treatment of thrush They fight not only Candida, but also some bacteria that join during candidiasis. They are also available for local and general treatment.

Antibiotics from the macrolide group: Pimafucin, Natamycin

Triazole antibiotics: Flucostat, Mikosist

Polyene antibiotics: Nystatin, Levorin

Combination drugs are products that contain several types of antibiotics. It also contains the hormone prednisolone for quick disposal from itching, pain and inflammation. These are products in the form of ointments and vaginal tablets Terzhinan, Neo-Penotran, Polygynax.

Probiotics normalize the composition of the vaginal microflora and acidity level. They also often contain components for restoring the vaginal mucosa and external genitalia. These are vaginal tablets and suppositories with a complex of lacto and bifidobacteria: Gynoflor, Ecofemin, Vaginorm S and Vagilak, as well as Bifidumbacterin, Lactobacterin.

Immunomodulators or immunocorrectors prescribed to strengthen general immunity. Its task is to restrain the growth of Candida after treatment is discontinued. These are tablets for oral administration Lykopid and rectal suppositories Viferon, Methyluracil.

Is Fluconazole effective for thrush?

Modern antifungal drugs can get rid of thrush in one day. In most cases, it is enough to take one capsule of Fluconazole 150 mg to destroy the fungal infection. If a woman suffers from recurrent thrush, then she will need to take one capsule once a week or a month for 6-12 months. The doctor selects the regimen individually.

For Get well soon it is advisable to combine systemic treatment Fluconazole in capsules and local treatment: suppositories with antifungal and anti-inflammatory drugs, the use of creams and douching.

Different pharmaceutical companies They produce drugs based on Fluconazole: Diflazon, Diflucan, Mikosist, Medoflucon, Forkan, Flucostat. The active substance of these medicines disrupts the metabolic processes in fungi, which leads to their death. The medicine is well absorbed into the blood and reaches all organs, where it accumulates in the required quantity. Thus, these drugs rid the body of any diseases caused by fungi.

With vaginal candidiasis, after taking Fluconazole, a woman usually notices a significant improvement within a day. But full recovery occurs in 3-4 days. If, a week after taking the drug, you continue to be bothered by symptoms of thrush, you should consult your doctor again.

There are several reasons why taking Fluconazole capsule did not bring results. This can happen if fungi have developed resistance and are not sensitive to it. Other medications may reduce the effectiveness of Fluconazole when taken simultaneously. For example, the antibiotic Rifampicin. In some cases, a single dose is not enough. You need to take one more capsule on the third and seventh day of treatment.
It must be remembered that Fluconazole has contraindications and serious side effects. Therefore, it must be taken on the recommendation of a doctor.

What traditional methods of treating thrush exist?

To treat thrush in women, traditional medicine recipes are successfully used. They have significantly fewer contraindications and side effects than traditional medications. However, even natural ingredients can cause an allergic reaction. And douching is generally not recommended for pregnant women. Please take this into account during treatment.

St. John's wort is an excellent remedy against thrush thanks to astringent, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. High content phytoncides, guarantees getting rid of bacteria and fungi of the genus Candida. St. John's wort decoction is used for douching. To prepare it, take 3-4 tablespoons of the herb and pour 1.5-2 liters of boiling water. After this, let the medicine brew for 1.5-2 hours. You need to douche with this infusion 4 times a day.

Has long been used infusion of sage and raspberry leaves rich in estrogens and anti-inflammatory components.

Directions for use: mix sage with raspberry leaves in equal proportions - 2 tablespoons of each herb. Then pour the mixture with a liter of boiling water. We wait 20 minutes for brewing, then strain the infusion through a sieve or cheesecloth. Let the product cool to room temperature. It is used for douching 2-3 times a day. For greater effectiveness, you can add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar per liter of product.

Oak bark - effective method get rid of thrush. The decoction has a strong antimicrobial effect, calms inflammatory processes and protects the genital mucosa from deep damage. To prepare the decoction, you need to take three parts of oak bark, one part of string and one part of lavender. To prepare, pour one tablespoon of herbal mixture into 150 ml of boiling water. Let it brew for 2 hours. After this, you need to strain the broth and add the same amount of boiling water to it. Douche with this mixture 2 times a day.

Cranberry and viburnum- universal assistants in the fight against thrush. The polyphenols contained in these berries stop the growth of yeast fungi, alleviate symptoms and strengthen the body. Juices from cranberries or viburnum will prevent the development of thrush. But the main requirement is to drink only unsweetened juice. The presence of sugar has the opposite effect and the fungus develops even more intensely.

You need to drink juices 3 times a day, 2 tablespoons. You can add the same amount of water. For douching, take 1 tablespoon of strained juice per glass of warm water.

Answers to frequently asked questions:

Is it possible to get pregnant with thrush?

A woman who has a flare-up of thrush may become pregnant. The processes that occur during candidiasis and the acid that fungi secrete can slightly impair the viability of sperm. But if their number is large and their mobility is high, then fertilization will still occur.

It is desirable that the woman is absolutely healthy at the time of pregnancy. But still, this disease does not pose a serious danger to the fetus. Unlike, for example, rubella.

Is it possible to have sex with thrush?

It is not recommended to have sex if you have thrush. This is due to the fact that with vaginal candidiasis, the mucous membrane becomes swollen and covered with erosions. During sex, she gets injured. This promotes the penetration of fungi into deeper layers and the addition of a bacterial infection. In addition, during and after sexual intercourse, pain and itching in the genitals intensify.

Is it possible to douche if you have thrush?

You can douche for thrush. This helps cleanse the vaginal walls of fungi and cheesy plaque. Various medications can help relieve itching and inflammation. Most often, a weak soda solution, chamomile and calendula decoctions are used.

Is it possible to use kefir or cottage cheese if you have thrush?

Kefir or cottage cheese contain a large number of fermented milk bacteria, which normally make up the main part of the microflora. With thrush, their number decreases sharply. Therefore, eating such foods restores balance and will be very beneficial. It is necessary to include fresh kefir and natural yoghurts with a short shelf life and minimal sugar content in your diet. They bring greatest benefit.

Prevention of thrush in women

Prevention of candidiasis is based on general strengthening of the immune system. Strict personal hygiene is also necessary, the meaning of which is to maintain normal vaginal microflora. Gynecologists recommend using intimate gels with high acidity levels, which contain lactic acid and a minimal amount of fragrances, for washing.

Wear underwear made from natural fabrics that allow your skin to breathe. But tight skinny jeans provoke the development of the disease.

You can become infected with thrush in swimming pools and bathhouses, where there are many people and the skin is exposed to chlorine. If you notice such a tendency, then avoid visiting these places.

Consume more vegetables, fruits and dairy products. This will help keep the number of lactobacilli normal. Avoid uncontrolled use of medications and do not forget about preventive visits to the doctor.

Thrush, or vulvovaginal candidiasis, is an inflammatory process caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida. These infectious agents are classified as conditionally pathogenic and are normally always present in the microflora of the intestine and vagina. However, with a decrease in immunity and other unfavorable factors, they can begin to actively reproduce. This process is accompanied by the appearance of itching, redness, irritation and cheesy discharge on the mucous membranes of the genital organs, which causes severe discomfort in the woman and a desire to get rid of them as quickly as possible.

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Types of drugs for the treatment of thrush

If you notice symptoms of thrush, you should consult a doctor and undergo the tests necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The wide range of remedies for thrush that exist today, as well as their active advertising, which promises to cure the disease forever after taking one pill, often misleads women. This contributes to incorrect self-prescription of medications, delays in recovery, the disease becoming chronic, and even the development of complications.

Before starting to treat thrush, it is important to culture a smear taken from the woman’s genital organs, accurately identify the causative agent of the disease and determine its sensitivity to the available antimycotic active substances. In most cases, the cause of thrush is the fungus Candida albicans, but there are other fungi of this genus that can cause inflammation in the external and internal female genital organs. For example, Candida glabrata, which is more resistant to the action of most antifungal drugs used. Only a doctor can choose the right medications and treatment regimen, taking into account contraindications, the patient’s age, and the presence of other concomitant diseases.

Medicines for the treatment of thrush in women can be local or systemic. They are found under various trade names, but they contain active ingredients of two main groups:

Azole derivatives - fluconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, econazole, sertaconazole, fenticonazole, isoconazole. They have fungistatic (slowing down the growth of fungi) and to a lesser extent fungicidal activity (completely destroying fungi). The mechanism of their action is associated with the inhibition of fungal enzymes necessary for the synthesis of ergosterol, the main structural component of the fungal cell membrane. As a result, the permeability of cell membranes increases, which leads to lysis of the fungal cell.
Polyene antibiotics – levorin, nystatin, natamycin. The mechanism of action is strong binding to ergosterol, disruption of the integrity of the fungal cell membrane, loss of compounds important for the cell's existence and its subsequent lysis.

Local preparations are available in the form vaginal suppositories, capsules or tablets, creams, ointments. They are used independently for mild forms of the disease and the absence of complications or as part of complex therapy with antifungal agents for oral administration at severe course thrush.

Systemic medications are available in the form of capsules or tablets for oral use. They have an effect on the entire body, including the site of inflammation. Such drugs are used for the chronic form of the disease, accompanied by frequent relapses, as well as for acute primary candidiasis with a severe course.

Principles of treating thrush

After the therapeutic course prescribed for thrush (no earlier than 2 weeks after its completion), a microscopic examination of the vaginal smear should be repeated to monitor the effectiveness of the therapy. If a woman experiences any side effects or an allergic reaction during treatment, she should immediately consult a doctor.

Treatment chronic thrush, when characteristic symptoms of the disease appear more than four times a year, represents more difficult process, compared to the acute form. Most effective A complex approach including treatment concomitant diseases that contribute to the development of candidiasis (diabetes mellitus, chronic infections, hormonal imbalance), and taking the following medications:

antifungal drugs of local and systemic action;
probiotics that normalize intestinal microflora;
means for restoring vaginal microflora (acylact, bifidumbacterin, vagilak, laktonorm, vagiflor, gynoflor);
anti-inflammatory drugs;
medicines that strengthen the immune system;
vitamin and mineral complexes for general strengthening of the body.

Treatment of chronic thrush takes several months. After its completion, maintenance therapy is prescribed to prevent exacerbations. This may consist of intermittent (once a week) use of antifungal vaginal suppositories and oral tablets (once a month or more often).

Systemic drugs

Of the systemic agents for thrush, a woman is most often prescribed tablets or capsules containing fluconazole in a dosage of 50, 100 or 150 mg. These include:

flucostat;
diflucan;
mycosist;
mycomax;
ciskan;
diflazone;
fucis.

At acute form thrush, to eliminate unpleasant symptoms, a single dose of fluconazole at a dose of 150 mg is sufficient, which is associated with long-term maintenance of high concentrations active substance in blood plasma.

In addition to fluconazole, drugs based on itraconazole (irunin, orungal, itrazol, rumicosis, candithral), ketoconazole (nizoral, mycozoral, fungavis, oronazole), nystatin and natamycin (pimafucin) can also be used for systemic use.

A significant drawback of all these drugs, despite their high effectiveness, is the impossibility of use for the treatment of thrush in pregnant and lactating women, big list contraindications and side effects, including:

disorders of the digestive tract (nausea, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal pain);
toxic effects on the liver and kidneys;
headaches and dizziness;
high risk development allergic reaction.

The development of seizures and other neurological reactions is possible.

Local preparations

Among local drugs Mainly used to treat thrush vaginal suppositories or tablets. They are inserted into the vagina while lying on your back with bent knees using a finger or using a special applicator once or twice a day. In some cases, they are simultaneously prescribed to be applied antifungal ointments or creams on the external genitalia and washing or douching with special antiseptic solutions(citeal).

Main advantage local funds consists of a minimum number of possible side effects and contraindications, as well as a direct impact on the source of infection. The disadvantages include some inconveniences in use: the need for a woman to be in a horizontal position for 20–30 minutes after administering a tablet or suppository, which is not always possible, a high chance of staining underwear or a sheet with leaking suppository residues, even if panty liners are used.

Preparations based on clotrimazole

This group of drugs for thrush includes:

tablets, cream or vaginal suppositories “Clotrimazole”;
vaginal cream and tablets “Canesten”;
vaginal cream and tablets “Candibene”;
Antifungol vaginal cream and tablets;
vaginal tablets "Candide B6".

Clotrimazole, when applied topically, penetrates well into tissues. For thrush, it is used in a dosage of 100 mg, 2 tablets per day for 3 days or 1 tablet per day for 6 days. It is effective not only against a wide range of fungi, but also against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, Trichomonas.

Clotrimazole is contraindicated in women in the first trimester of pregnancy, during menstruation and during hypersensitivity to the active substance.

Preparations with nystatin

The most well-known representatives of this group used in gynecology are suppositories and ointment “Nystatin”, vaginal tablets “Terzhinan” and vaginal capsules “Poliginax”. They are contraindicated for women during pregnancy and individual intolerance. The advantage of nystatin is that the fungus does not develop resistance to it. They need to treat thrush for at least 7 days.

Nitstatin suppositories are available in dosages of 250,000 or 500,000 units. Vaginal tablets "Terzhinan" are a complex antimicrobial and antifungal agent. In addition to nystatin, it contains the antibiotic neomycin, the anti-inflammatory agent prednisolone and the compound ternidazole, which is active against anaerobic flora. "Polygynax" also represents complex drug, consisting of nystatin and two antibiotics (neomycin and polymyxin B).

Miconazole-based products

Miconazole for topical use is used in the form of cream and vaginal suppositories. Suppositories with a dosage of the active substance of 100 mg are used for thrush once a day. The course of treatment is more than two weeks. A number of antifungal agents are produced based on miconazole, additionally containing metronidazole, which has antibacterial and antiprotozoal activity. These include vaginal suppositories “Klion-D 100”, “Neo-Penotran”, “Metromicon-Neo”. Analogues of miconazole include cream and suppositories “Ginezol 7”, “Gino-Daktarin”.

Drugs containing ketoconazole

Ketoconazole and its well-known analogue Livarol for thrush is used for 3–5 days at a dosage of 400 mg, 1 suppository per day, which is administered at night. They can be used for both acute and chronic forms of candidiasis, mixed fungal and bacterial infections, and disorders of the vaginal microflora.

Pimafucin

To treat thrush, a drug containing the polyene antibiotic natamycin, Pimafucin, is widely used. It is available as oral tablets, vaginal suppositories, and cream. Pimafucin is well tolerated, non-toxic, and can be used by women during pregnancy at any stage and during lactation. The dosage of the active substance in suppositories is 100 mg, they are used once a day at night for 5–8 days.

Lactozhinal

One of the most important areas of treatment inflammatory diseases female reproductive system is the destruction of pathogenic microorganisms. Such therapy inevitably provokes a disruption of the natural balance of the vaginal microflora, weakening of local immunity, and, as a consequence, the development of thrush (vaginal candidiasis) or other fungal and bacterial infections. That is why it is important to restore normal vaginal lactoflora as soon as possible.

After the first stage of treatment, the goal of which is to destroy the infection, as a rule, a second stage is prescribed - restoring balance beneficial bacteria with the help of special drugs. One of them is the drug Laktozhinal, the only tribiotic drug officially registered in the Russian Federation today. Laktozhinal restores the vaginal microflora and the normal acid-base balance of the mucous membrane, preventing the development of vaginosis and candidiasis.

This two-step therapy has recently been considered the gold standard for the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the genitals. Experts say that this method gives long lasting healing effect, ensures the strengthening of local immunity and the prevention of new exacerbations.

When treating thrush, to speed up recovery and reduce the growth of pathogenic flora, you should adhere to a certain diet. Need to exclude:

sweets (cookies, candies, chocolate), including sweet fruits and fruit juices;
white bread, baked goods, pasta, products made from premium wheat flour;
products containing yeast;
herbs, spices, spicy dishes.

Unsweetened fermented milk products (yogurt, kefir, yogurt) containing live cultures of beneficial bacteria are recommended. They will promote the formation of healthy intestinal and vaginal microflora and prevent the proliferation of fungus.

In order to successfully treat thrush, the correct choice of underwear, panty liners and cleansing products is of great importance. Briefs must be made of natural cotton fabric and have a “classic” shape. Beautiful, lace thongs, but made of synthetic, breathable fabric, will contribute to the creation of a greenhouse effect, additional irritation and mechanical injury to inflamed tissues.

Panty liners used should be unscented, as should intimate hygiene products. This will help prevent the development of an allergic reaction. For washing or douching for thrush, after consultation with your doctor, you can use herbal infusions of chamomile, oak bark, calendula, sage, which have an antiseptic and healing effect. If you have thrush, you need to wash yourself often.