Fungal infection

Fungal infection

Up to ¾ of all women over the age of 25 have experienced a fungal infection in the abdomen. Usually you will experience itching, burning and a change in discharge when you have a fungal infection. In most cases, a single person can treat themselves using over-the-counter medicines.

Cause of fungal infection

A fungal infection is most often caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida Albicans, which occurs when the natural bacterial flora in the vagina changes. This fungus is usually harmless and occurs naturally on the body.

• Factors that can trigger fungal infection

• Antibiotic treatment

• Pregnancy

• Diabetes

• Tight and damp underwear

• Excessive hygiene

• Impaired immune system

Symptoms of fungal infection

The most common symptoms of vaginal yeast infection in women are acute itching and burning in the abdomen. Many people also experience a change in discharge (white, "cottage cheese-like"). Most often, there is no bothersome smell from the discharge. Some will experience pain during intercourse.

Self-test for fungal infection

If you are unsure whether you have contracted a fungal infection in the vagina, you can do a self-test at home. The Dynamic Code self-test for fungal infection and bacterial vaginosis is easy to use and gives you a safe diagnosis. The test is carried out at home, and then sent for analysis. Within a couple of days you will receive an answer to your test. If a fungal infection is detected, this can be treated with antifungal agents.

Yeast infection in men

Men can also get a fungal infection on the penis. They can be infected through intercourse if the woman already has a fungal infection. Fungal infection in men manifests itself as itching and a red rash on the foreskin of the penis. This rash can spread to the groin. This is treated with Canesten cream, which is over-the-counter.