Author: Ljubica Barbulović, MPharm

Candida is by far one of the most common fungal infections in women. It is caused by the fungus Candida albicans, which naturally and harmlessly exists in the body, but a problem arises when it multiplies excessively. If you feel persistent itching, burning, or notice a thick discharge, there is a high probability that it is candidiasis.

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What is candida and why does it occur?

Candida is a normal part of human microflora, and its growth and spread are perfectly controlled by good bacteria (Lactobacillus) and your immune system. When this delicate balance is disrupted, the fungus begins to multiply aggressively, leading to an infection.

The most common triggers and causes are:

  • use of antibiotics (which kill good bacteria)
  • weakened immunity due to illness or exhaustion
  • chronic stress
  • hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy, contraceptive pills)
  • a diet with too much refined sugar and carbohydrates

What are the most common candida symptoms?

An infection rarely occurs without clear warnings. The most common symptoms indicating an overgrowth of this fungus are:

  • intense, often unbearable itching in the intimate area
  • burning sensation, especially during urination or intercourse
  • visible redness and swelling of the mucous membrane
  • thick, whitish discharge resembling cottage cheese (without a strong odor)
  • a general feeling of discomfort and irritation

If these symptoms recur, it is necessary to react in time and not postpone therapy.

How is candida treated? (4 key steps)

The treatment of candida largely depends on the severity of the symptoms themselves, but the best and fastest results are achieved by a combination of therapies.

1. Antimycotics (the basis of therapy)

Antimycotics are drugs that act directly on the fungus and stop its further growth. They are most commonly used in the form of:

  • vaginal suppositories (for internal use)
  • creams (for external relief of itching and redness)
  • oral medications (for more severe, persistent infections, strictly on prescription)

2. Probiotics - the key to a long-term solution

While antimycotics "put out the fire," probiotics are in charge of rebuilding the damaged system. They restore the balance of vaginal flora because they:

  • drastically reduce the risk of infection recurrence
  • directly restore colonies of good bacteria
  • strengthen the natural protective barrier of the mucous membrane

3. Proper intimate hygiene (a common mistake)

One of the biggest mistakes women with candida make is obsessive washing with aggressive soaps, which further dries out the skin and kills the remaining good bacteria. It is necessary to use mild washing gels, strictly without perfumes, and with an adapted pH value (from 3.8 to 4.5).

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4. Change of lifestyle habits

Without changing habits, candida often returns within a few weeks. Try to reduce your intake of sweets, wear only cotton underwear, avoid tight and synthetic clothing, and continuously work on strengthening your overall immunity.

How long does candida treatment last?

The duration of treatment directly depends on how far the infection has progressed:

  • Mild forms: Subside in 3 to 7 days with adequate local therapy.
  • More severe cases: Require treatment lasting 7 to 14 days.
  • Chronic (recurring) candida: Requires a multi-month approach with oral therapy and strict diets.

The most important rule is: finish the therapy to the end, even if the symptoms disappear earlier!

Why does candida keep coming back?

If you have been cured, and the infection reappears after the next cycle or stress, the main cause is usually chronically poor vaginal flora, very weak immunity, hormonal imbalance, or improper hygiene. The solution is always a combination of antimycotics and multi-month use of probiotics.

Pharmacist's Advice

The biggest mistake you can make is treating only the symptoms (itching). As soon as you feel relief, you stop the therapy, and the fungus returns even stronger. Therefore:

  • Always combine the basic therapy with a cream for external relief of symptoms.
  • Be sure to include oral or vaginal probiotics.
  • Use only medical cosmetics for washing.

In our pharmacy, you can find premium vaginal suppositories for candida, antimycotic creams, and the best probiotics for restoring flora.

When must you see a doctor?

Although milder infections can be resolved with pharmacy products, be sure to visit a gynecologist if symptoms last longer than 7 days, if infections occur more than 4 times a year, or if you feel pelvic pain and fever along with the discharge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can candida go away on its own?
Very rarely. In most cases, antimycotic therapy is necessary to stop the fungus from multiplying.

2. Do probiotics really help with candida?
Yes, they are absolutely crucial for a long-term solution and prevention. Without good bacteria, the fungus will return again and again.

3. How fast do candida symptoms go away?
With proper and regular use of therapy, the sharpest symptoms (like itching) usually pass in 2 to 3 days, while full balance is restored after the therapy is completed.