Overview

Occurs due to disruption of vaginal flora—common after antibiotic use, pregnancy, diabetes, or hormonal changes.

Causes

• Antibiotic or steroid use
• Pregnancy, diabetes
• Hormonal birth control
• Tight, synthetic underwear

Symptoms

• Itching, burning
• White, cottage-cheese-like discharge
• Redness, swelling of vulva
• Pain during sex or urination

Treatment: Modern Medicine

• Diagnosis: Vaginal swab, microscopy
• Treatment:
  • Antifungal creams or oral fluconazole
  • Vaginal suppositories (clotrimazole)
  • Probiotic therapy

Treatment: Traditional Medicine

• Ayurveda: Neem, Triphala, Yashtimadhu wash
• Siddha: Herbal sitz baths (Mathan thailam)
• Unani: Sharbat-e-Unnab, Arq-e-Gulab rinses
• TCM: Huang Bai, Zhi Mu
• Homeopathy: Kreosotum, Sepia, Borax
• Nutraceuticals: Probiotics (Lactobacillus), Vitamin C, Zinc

Caution

• Avoid overuse of antifungals—risk of resistance
• Recurrent infections may indicate diabetes

Prevention

• Cotton underwear
• Avoid scented hygiene products
• Probiotic foods