What is a fungus? It's a microorganism that lives on the skin. Most of the time, these organisms are harmless - in fact some are useful to the body - but occasionally they cause an infection and create problems. What are some of these fungal infections? One of the most troublesome is candida, which thrives in areas of the body that are warm, moist and creased, and unexposed to air. In women, candidiasis affects the vagina and the vulva (external part of the genitals). What causes candidiasis? Candidiasis is common and most women would have experienced an infection in the lifetime. Taking antibiotics may predispose a woman to candidiasis by killing off her good bacteria and allowing the fungal infection to set it. The times when a woman is most vulnerable to candidiasis is during the second half of her menstrual cycle (14 days or more after the first day of the menstrual period), and when she's pregnant. Women with diabetes mellitus and those on the Pill are more prone as well. What about hygiene? Feminine hygiene is always important. Women must make sure they keep the vaginal area dry to prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for such organisms. However, lack of hygiene is not the main reason for contracting candidiasis. What other reasons are there? Candidiasis can be contracted through sexual intercourse with an infected partner - it is much more common in women. And even though it can be spread through sexual contact, it is not a sexually-transmitted infection. Women who have not had sexual intercourse may also get it as the fungus is present in our environment. How would I know I have a fungal infection? Symptoms include a thick, white or even yellow discharge, itching, discomfort when passing urine, and sometimes pain during sexual intercourse. PREVENT FUNGAL INFECTIONS • Change pantyliners or sanitary pads often. • Avoid taking antibiotics unnecessarily. • Use cotton underwear. INFORMATION: Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Singapore General Hospital Tel: 6222 3322 (mainline) www.sgh.com.sg The above information is not a substitute for a doctor's medical advice. Please consult your Family Doctor or a Specialist if you have any concerns about your health.