Why do I keep getting fungal infections?

If you keep getting vaginal yeast infections , it's probably due to an imbalance in your vaginal flora. By restoring balance with a suitable probiotic and good hygiene, you can finally break free from this vicious cycle .

What exactly is a chronic vaginal yeast infection?

Recurrent vaginal yeast infections affect many women and are often linked to a persistent imbalance of the vaginal flora . Understanding what they are is the first step towards managing them.

Recurrent vaginal yeast infections refer to recurring fungal infections, usually caused by the Candida albicans fungus. A chronic form is defined as four or more episodes per year , confirmed by a healthcare professional.

Vaginal candidiasis often causes intense itching , vulvar burning , thick white discharge , and even pain during sexual intercourse. These signs can also suggest other conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or local irritation.

Each episode further weakens the local defenses of the vulvovaginal area. And the more the flora is compromised, the more frequent the recurrence of vaginal yeast infections becomes. This vicious cycle is all the more difficult to break without appropriate treatment.

An accurate diagnosis is necessary to confirm that it is indeed a fungal infection and not another genital condition. This sometimes involves a vaginal swab to identify the germ, its exact strain, and to tailor the prescribed local or oral treatment.

Some women are more at risk : in cases of diabetes , repeated use of antibiotics , menopause , combined oral contraceptive pills , or frequent use of soaps not suitable for intimate hygiene .

The prescribed treatments vary depending on the case: vaginal suppositories, topical antifungal creams, or extended-release oral antifungals (such as fluconazole). But without action on the vaginal flora, recurrence remains frequent, sometimes as early as the following week.

What are the most common medical causes?

Recurrent vaginal yeast infections are often linked to a deep imbalance : hormones, flora, treatments… We review the three main causes that promote their recurrence.

A hormonal or metabolic imbalance weakens the natural defenses

A disruption of the vaginal flora can occur due to hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy , menopause , or when taking the pill . The vaginal pH changes, making the mucous membrane more vulnerable to the proliferation of Candida albicans .

Certain diseases, such as poorly controlled diabetes, also increase sugar levels in the mucous membranes. As a result, fungi find a favorable environment to develop rapidly, especially when the immune system is weakened.

Key takeaways:

• Pregnancy, menstruation , menopause = pH imbalance

• The pill and hormonal IUD alter the vaginal flora.

• Diabetes = a favorable environment for fungal growth

• Weakened immune system → more frequent relapses

Hormonal fluctuations—particularly during pregnancy, the premenstrual period, or menopause—are among the factors identified in cases of recurrent vaginal candidiasis. Source: Genesis Review .

Certain treatments and medications disrupt the vaginal flora.

Taking antibiotics , even for a short time, can destroy the beneficial bacteria in the vaginal flora. This imbalance allows opportunistic yeasts like Candida albicans to proliferate. This explains why yeast infections often appear after an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) or urinary tract infection.

Treatments such as corticosteroids , chemotherapy , or certain birth control pills can also alter the vaginal microbiota and make the mucous membranes more permeable to fungal infection. This is an often underestimated factor.

Key takeaways:

• Antibiotics also kill good bacteria

• Some medications weaken the vaginal lining.

• The more unbalanced the gut flora, the more recurrent the fungal infection becomes.

• Good hygiene alone is not enough to restore balance

A weakened vaginal flora promotes recurrence.

The vaginal flora is naturally populated by lactobacilli , bacteria that protect the vagina from infections. If this balance is disrupted, fungi can proliferate. This type of imbalance is called vaginal dysbiosis .

This phenomenon can be linked to a stressful lifestyle , excessive hygiene, tight or synthetic clothing , and even factors such as an imbalanced gut flora . All these elements increase the risk of frequent episodes.

Key takeaways:

• A healthy vaginal flora = a natural antifungal barrier

• Stress, overly aggressive hygiene, tight clothing = increased risks

• The digestive flora and vaginal flora are closely linked.

• A good probiotic helps to rebalance the gut flora in a lasting way.

What are some natural solutions to get out of this situation?

To limit recurrences, it is possible to act naturally on several levers : adapted intimate hygiene, dietary rebalancing, targeted probiotics, gentle local care and a more serene lifestyle.

Intimate hygiene plays a central role. Excessive hygiene or the use of harsh products weakens the mucous membranes of the vulva and vagina . At Supernutrition.fr, we recommend a mild, fragrance-free soap with a physiological pH , and limiting washing to 1 to 2 times per day.

Some simple everyday actions can really make a difference. For example, avoid tight clothing , change your clothes promptly after exercising, and choose cotton. These habits limit maceration , a known contributing factor to recurrent vaginal yeast infections.

In terms of diet, the natural approach involves reducing refined sugars (which feed Candida albicans ) and strengthening the gut microbiota . It's best to favor foods rich in fiber, natural prebiotics, and lactobacilli .

Probiotics specifically formulated for the vaginal flora are now widely documented for their ability to sustainably rebalance the vaginal microbiota . According to Oxford Academic , certain strains such as L. rhamnosus GR-1 or L. reuteri RC-14 are effective in preventing recurrences.

In addition, some natural topical solutions can help: virgin coconut oil , aloe vera gel , or washes with diluted baking soda (provided they are used in the correct proportions). However, these remedies must be part of a coherent protocol , approved by a professional.

📌 Summary of useful natural actions:

• Adopt a gentle, non-aggressive intimate hygiene routine.

• Opt for loose and breathable clothing .

• Adjusting your diet to limit sugars and nourish the gut microbiota

• Take a course of targeted vaginal probiotics

• Use natural topical treatments if they are well tolerated.

These approaches do not replace prescribed treatment for confirmed vaginitis , but they can reduce its frequency and improve your daily intimate comfort. If symptoms persist, a doctor or midwife can refine your treatment plan .

What if nothing works?

If, despite all your efforts, the symptoms persist, it's time to investigate the cause further with a doctor . Analysis, tailored treatments, and exploring sometimes overlooked avenues can truly make a difference.

When vaginal yeast infections recur frequently, despite a good prevention protocol, it is necessary to consult a doctor or gynecologist . This step helps rule out other causes such as bacterial vaginosis or non-infectious irritation .

Some recurring fungal infections are caused by a resistant strain of Candida . A simple antifungal suppository or cream is no longer sufficient. In this case, a vaginal swab is often prescribed to tailor the local or oral treatment .

Frequent or inappropriate antibiotic use can increase the risk of vaginal flora imbalance, which promotes fungal growth. Therefore, it's important to inform your doctor about any current or recent antibiotic treatments.

Some patients discover that their infection is aggravated by a systemic factor : uncontrolled diabetes, a weakened immune system , or chronic stress. These factors can disrupt the overall balance and make candidiasis more difficult to treat.

In complex cases, a specialist can:

• Propose a prolonged course of oral antifungal treatment

• Perform a complete vaginal microbiota examination

• Investigate for chronic inflammatory vaginitis

• Adjust hormonal treatment if needed

We recommend that you consult a professional if:

• Yeast infections recur every month or after each sexual encounter.

• Conventional treatments provide little or no relief.

• You are experiencing other associated symptoms (chronic pain, dryness, abnormal discharge)

FAQ – Recurrent vaginal yeast infections: your most frequently asked questions

Can I transmit a yeast infection to my partner during sexual intercourse?

Yes, it's possible. Even though vaginal candidiasis isn't an STI, unprotected sex can facilitate the transmission of the Candida albicans fungus , especially in cases of recurrence. The partner can be an asymptomatic carrier and perpetuate the reinfection .

Can a fungal infection occur without itching?

Yes. Some women experience only thick discharge , vulvar irritation , or a slight burning sensation without marked itching. If the symptoms are mild but recurring, it's best to consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis with a local swab .

Do periods increase the risk of yeast infections?

Yes, for several reasons: changes in vaginal pH , prolonged use of sanitary products , and a temporary decrease in lactobacilli flora. For some women, each cycle is followed by a yeast infection. A targeted prevention protocol can help.

Should I treat my partner if he has no symptoms?

It depends. In cases of frequent recurrence after intercourse, treating the partner may be relevant even if they are asymptomatic, in consultation with a healthcare professional. A topical antifungal cream is sometimes prescribed to prevent recurring infections .

How long does it take for probiotics to work?

Clinical studies show that a course of vaginal or oral probiotics begins to take effect after 1 to 2 weeks , but a lasting effect develops over 4 to 8 weeks . The key: suitable strains and regular intake , even between acute episodes.

Sources:

• Vaginitis: Diagnosis and Treatment: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2020/0401/p432.html

• Vaginal microbiome and its relationship to behavior, sexual health, and sexually transmitted diseases: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6996544/