What should you know about yeast infection dermatitis?

Vaginal thrush, also called a yeast infection or vulvovaginal candidiasis, can affect the vagina and the skin around its opening. The skin may become red, swollen, sore, cracked, or intensely itchy. Burning can be more noticeable when urine touches irritated skin or during sex. A thick, white vaginal discharge can occur, although discharge varies and does not confirm the cause by itself.

Candida normally lives on the body without causing problems. Symptoms can develop when the local balance changes. Similar itching or soreness can also come from irritant products, other infections, or a skin condition, so a clinician may need to check the area when the diagnosis is uncertain or symptoms keep returning.

Keep the area dry and gently wash with lukewarm water; avoid perfumed soaps, vaginal washes, deodorants, and scrubbing. Loose cotton underwear and breathable clothing may reduce dampness and friction. Do not scratch, because broken skin can increase discomfort and allow secondary irritation.

Antifungal treatment for thrush may be supplied as a vaginal medicine, a cream for external symptoms, or an oral medicine, depending on your symptoms and medical history. Use treatment exactly as directed and ask a pharmacist or clinician before choosing a product if this is your first episode, you are pregnant, or you take regular medicines.

Arrange a medical assessment if symptoms are new, severe, do not improve after treatment, or return repeatedly. Seek advice promptly for fever, pelvic or lower abdominal pain, sores or blisters, unusual bleeding, a strong-smelling or unusual discharge, or marked swelling and skin breaks. These features can point to another problem or an infection needing different care.

If you are pregnant, have diabetes, or have a weakened immune system, contact a clinician before treating yourself. Urgent help is appropriate for rapidly worsening pain, extensive swelling, or difficulty passing urine.

You could ask: Does the examination fit thrush or an irritated skin condition? Which treatment is suitable for my symptoms? What should I avoid while the skin heals? Do I need testing for another infection? What should I do if symptoms return?