Break the Cycle: Permanent Solutions for Recurrent Vaginal Candidiasis

Vaginal thrush, also known as candidiasis or monilia, is a common yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. It affects about 75% of women at some point in their lives. Symptoms can include vaginal itching or burning, a white discharge, and stinging or burning during urination.

Mrs C.T., a 43-year-old female, has been suffering from vaginal candidiasis since 2017. She visited Life Force Homeopathy at the Borivali (West) branch on 18.06.22, with Patient Identification Number 48425. Her major concerns included recurrent infections over the past year, with the most recent episode occurring two days prior, characterized by severe itching and thick white discharge that later turned yellowish. She has been on intermittent antifungal treatments over the past year, but the infection recurs once she stops the medication.

Associated Conditions:

PCOD: Diagnosed in 2009, accompanied by hair fall (40-50 strands per day) and thinning of hair in the frontal area.

Cervical spondylosis: Diagnosed in 2017.

GERD: Diagnosed in 2017.

Past History:

Psoriasis: Experienced from ages 16 to 20-21, stable since then.

Family History:

Sister: Motor neurone disease (MND).

Based on the case history, Dr. Shah prescribed the appropriate medications and the associate doctor provided guidance on necessary hygienic interventions. Additionally, dietary recommendations and tests to be conducted were outlined.

Recommendations:

The patient is advised to continue with Life Force Homeopathic medicines and attend regular follow-ups to monitor and manage symptoms effectively. It is essential to maintain proper hygiene by avoiding wearing wet undergarments and practicing good genital hygiene. Additionally, monitoring triggers such as unprotected intercourse and the use of latex condoms is crucial to prevent flare-ups. Supportive care measures, including the use of lubricants if necessary and regular application of recommended creams and washes, should be incorporated into the daily routine to ensure on-going symptom management and overall well-being.

Follow-Up Summary:

On August 2, 2022, the patient experienced one episode of vaginal candidiasis with reduced intensity but continued to suffer from severe itching and burning.

By September 6, 2022, there was no significant relief from the last batch of medication, and itching remained a major concern.

On October 1, 2022, the curd-like discharge had stopped, but a watery discharge was present. Itching had reduced minimally but still affected daily activities, requiring the use of Clingen forte vaginal pessary and candid creams. The patient also noted mucus discharge after menses and hot, frothy urine flow.

By December 6, 2022, there was significant improvement, although an episode of UTI in November caused severe itching. An allergic reaction to latex condoms was also noted, which triggered itching.

On April 15, 2023, itching and abnormal vaginal discharge had improved, but the patient experienced persistent dryness and burning while urinating.

On July 4, 2023, the patient reported a recent episode due to unprotected intercourse, with reduced burning and occasional itching. Mild itching episodes were related to wet undergarments and vulvar dryness, and soaking undergarments in Dettol helped alleviate the itching.

By December 2, 2023, daily itching had increased due to holding urine to avoid using common washrooms, and dryness had increased despite maintaining regular hygiene.

Summary of Progress and Challenges:

Frequency and Intensity of Episodes: Initially frequent and severe, the episodes gradually reduced in both intensity and frequency over time.

Discharge: The discharge started as thick white curd-like, then changed to watery, and eventually reduced significantly.

Itching: Severe itching was present initially but reduced in intensity with treatment. However, it occasionally flared up due to external factors such as wet undergarments.

Burning Sensation: A burning sensation was noted during urination and after intercourse, which improved with treatment.

Drug Dependency: Drug dependency reduced significantly. Initially, regular antifungals and other medications were required, but these were gradually discontinued.

Other Concerns: There was an increased frequency of urination, dryness, and occasional episodes of UTI.

Final Outcome:

By December 2023, the patient showed significant improvement in symptoms, experiencing only mild episodes of itching and dryness, with no severe episodes of candidiasis. Regular hygiene practices and homeopathic treatment played a crucial role in managing and reducing the symptoms.

Conclusion:

This case study underscores the significance of continuous follow-up, personalized Life Force homeopathic treatment, and lifestyle modifications in effectively managing recurrent vaginal candidiasis. Through diligent monitoring, tailored treatment plans, and adjustments in daily habits, patients can experience significant improvement in symptoms and enhance their overall quality of life.

- Written by Dr. Deepa Chandroth an Associate Doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom) at Life Force Homeopathy.