## Where does it come from? There are countless fungi of the [Candida](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=1295) species, but in most cases, C. Albicans —"candida whitish"— causes unpleasant feelings. Frothy discharge with an unpleasant odor, itching, and burning, intensifying after intercourse or while sleeping, and constant discomfort are common symptoms of the disease. Fungi of the genus Candida are present on our mucous membranes all the time — however, the presence alone does not cause problems. ## The cause of thrush can include: __Changes in the hormonal background.__ It can be caused by ===pregnancy or normal ovulation. This changes the vaginal environment. The more acidic it becomes — the higher the risk of getting sick. __Taking antibiotics.__ These drugs, along with pathogenic ones, destroy the beneficial bacteria in the vagina, which allows the fungus to multiply uncontrollably. __[Diabetes](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=43) mellitus.__ Fluctuations in blood sugar levels increase the risk of developing thrush. __Weakened immunity.__ When our immune system is weakened by disease or treatment, it cannot control the reproduction of fungi. Immunity is also weakened by hypothermia, stress, lack of sleep, and vitamin deficiencies. Thrush can sometimes be caused by the following: - Tight synthetic underwear and clothing. Thongs are often blamed for such problems. - Feminine hygiene products. Regular douches, soaps with a special composition, vaginal deodorants, and daily — especially scented — pads create an excellent environment for the reproduction of the fungus. - Unprotected sex or the use of spermicidal lubricants that irritate. ## Can men get it? In men, candidiasis is manifested by swelling, a grayish-white plaque on the genitals, and characteristic secretions. And if thrush is not treated, painful fissures can appear later on. Of course, there is a logical question: can you catch thrush during intercourse? To transmit the disease itself is impossible, but the fungi that cause it can certainly be shared between partners. And then it all depends on your immune system. If your immune system is strong, you won't get thrush. If it is weak, the probability is high. In any case, the appearance of thrush in one of the partners does not indicate one of the partners has been with someone else. ## How to respond to it Despite the rather bright picture, it is better to go to the doctor for a diagnosis, as it is easy to confuse thrush with other diseases. The doctor will take a smear test, prescribe PCR or blood tests and pick up a course of treatment with antifungal drugs. This can include antifungal suppositories, which are directly inserted into the vagina, creams to kill fungus, and oral antifungal agents. A supporting diet is also a good way to deal with this disease, as it will help to normalize the microflora of the mucous membranes. It is usually recommended to reduce the number of sugars and starch-containing products in the diet, as well as anything that may contain yeast, including alcoholic beverages such as beer and sparkling wines. You should supplement your diet with yogurt, kefir (which should be taken on an empty stomach), cabbage, whole grains, fresh fish, and green tea. If you are going to be treated with antibiotics, and you are familiar with thrush, talk to your doctor about using prebiotics and probiotics to support the microflora. Additionally, any antibacterial medication should always be accompanied by an antifungal! The approach to the treatment of candidiasis should be strictly individual and depends on many factors. Remember that an acute process not cured in time can develop into a chronic form, which is much more difficult to treat!