Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: what it is and how to beat it

If you’ve had more than one yeast infection in a year, chances are you’re dealing with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). It’s not just an occasional annoyance – the symptoms can keep coming back, mess up your routine, and make you wonder why it won’t go away.

RVVC means you get three or more confirmed yeast infections within a 12‑month period. The culprit is usually Candida albicans, but other Candida species can show up too. Hormone shifts, antibiotics, diabetes, or a weakened immune system are common triggers that let the fungus grow out of control.

Common signs you shouldn’t ignore

The first clue is the classic itch‑and‑burn feeling around the vagina and vulva. You might also notice thick white discharge that looks like cottage cheese, redness, swelling, or a burning sensation during sex or when you pee.

If these symptoms stick around for more than a few days after using an over‑the‑counter treatment, it’s time to think about RVVC. Frequent flare‑ups often mean the fungus is hiding in places like the skin folds, gut, or even your mouth, ready to come back once you stop medication.

Women with diabetes should watch their blood sugar closely – high glucose levels feed Candida just like they feed other germs. And if you’re on antibiotics for a bacterial infection, remember they can wipe out good bacteria that normally keep yeast in check.

Smart ways to manage and prevent recurrence

The first step is getting an accurate diagnosis from a doctor. A simple lab test will confirm the species and help your provider pick the right antifungal plan. For most cases, a 7‑day high‑dose oral fluconazole regimen works well, but some need longer courses or different drugs like itraconazole.

Beyond prescription meds, lifestyle tweaks make a big difference. Wear breathable cotton underwear, avoid tight leggings, and change out of wet swimsuits or sweaty gym clothes ASAP. Cutting down on sugary foods and drinks can also starve the fungus.

Probiotics are worth a try – strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus help restore healthy vaginal flora. You don’t need a fancy supplement; a daily yogurt with live cultures does the job for many people.

If you’re prone to RVVC, talk to your doctor about maintenance therapy. Some doctors prescribe a low‑dose fluconazole tablet once a week for six months or longer to keep the fungus at bay.

Lastly, don’t self‑diagnose with home remedies that lack evidence. Tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar douches, and other “natural” fixes can irritate delicate tissue and actually worsen the problem.

Bottom line: recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is manageable when you combine proper medical treatment with smart daily habits. Keep an eye on symptoms, get tested, follow your doctor’s plan, and make simple changes to your wardrobe and diet. You’ll be far less likely to see that uncomfortable itch return month after month.