Candidiasis (yeast infection) and bacterial vaginosis are two types of vaginal infections. When these infections, or certain STDs, recur even after treatment, they become chronic and may require treatment by a pelvic pain specialist.
Symptoms of Chronic Candidiasis and Bacterial Vaginosis
Sensations of burning, rawness, throbbing, stabbing or aching in the vagina
Discharge, often with a strong odor or greyish color
Vaginal itching
Pain during intercourse
Chronic pelvic pain
Causes
Candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis are both caused by overgrowth and imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. Chronic Candidiasis occurs when there is too much yeast present, which can be brought on by antibiotics, poor diet, hormonal imbalances and uncontrolled diabetes. Bacterial vaginosis is most often caused by gardnerella vaginalis, the most common type of bacteria in your vagina. This imbalance occurs when something disrupts the natural pH level of the vagina, such as multiple sexual partners or vaginal douching.
Preventions
Treatment for chronic candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis starts with first making sure there is an actual infection present. In 33% of cases, patients have negative cultures and their symptoms are actually caused by inflammation of the vagina. Prevention and treatment for bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis may include:
- Better understanding of the vaginal microbiome
- Hygiene to maintain proper pH balance of the vagina
- Safe sex practices
- Oral medications, suppositories, and topical medications