The pathogenic qualities of Candida fungi have been known for many years now. Although these fungi are everywhere, not all develop candidal infection or Candidiasis; immunocompromised and clinically ill patients, however, are exceptions. They are susceptible to the disease. Seriously ill patients such as those with AIDS or HIV are most likely to develop systemic and invasive candidiasis, conditions wherein the blood and many organs in the body have already been contaminated by the Candida fungi, in most cases, by the Candida albicans.

Studies have shown that 10 to 55 percent of all women within child-bearing age bracket have Candida fungi in the vagina. This is why risk of getting an infection among women are higher, even when they are in seemingly good health condition. Pregnancy, being a stage of a lot of hormonal changes, makes a pregnant woman more susceptible to diseases such as an overgrowth of or contamination of the sex organ by the Candida fungi. Also, acidity of the vagina reduces during pregnancy; thus, infection is likely to develop.

Aside from the hormonal changes and imbalances, and change in the vaginal acidity, candidiasis among women can also be due to immune suppression, vaginal allergies, presence of HIV and other illnesses such as diabetes mellitus and thyroid disorder.

Symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis include itching of the genitalia and the surrounding area, flaking of the vaginal skin, painful urination, odorless creamy white or yellowish vaginal discharge, reddening of the skin around the infected area, swelling of the vaginal entrance skin, pain in the vagina or pelvis (especially during intercourse), vaginal discomfort and burning sensation.

Vaginal discharge is very minimal and is not present in every case of vulvovaginal candidiasis. In some patients, the discharge is watery rather than cream-like.

When the woman infected with the Candida fungi is pregnant, she may transfer the infection to the child she is giving birth to. Thrush candidasis may develop in the baby. This is an oral candidal infection, which the newly born infant may acquire from an infected birth canal.

Furthermore, the mother may transmit the Candida fungi as she breast-feeds the baby. The nipples may likewise be infected by the Candid fungi. Since the baby uses a diaper constantly, the risk of having an infection is very high. Immediate treatment for both the mother and the child is necessary so as to prevent further passing of the infection.

When VVC is not immediately treated, it could lead to atrophic vaginitis, inflammation, swelling and irritation of the tissues in the vagina resulting to gradual wasting away of the tissues. This normally happens to women in old and menopausal age.

Miconazole nitrate drugs are usually given to patients with VVC. These drugs are administered into the vagina for more immediate effect. Other antifungal drugs may be used; among them are clotrimazole, butoconazole and nystatin. All these work by preventing the creation of molecules needed in the formation of formal fungal cell walls. When the fungal cell wall is damaged, the fungus dies.

Self-diagnosis of a candidal infection is definitely not encouraged by physicians. Although candidiasis manifests as superficial skin infection, it can be systemic or invasive. Especially during pregnancy, the mother must go and see the doctor if signs and symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis are visible or experienced. This is not only for her good but for also for the good of the child whose immune system may not be strong enough to fight against diseases.

Charlene J. Nuble is a healthcare professional who loves writing about women's issues, parenting and other health related stuffs. Click on the link to learn more about Natural Cures Detox for Candida...