Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the name often given to Candida albicans infection of the vagina associated with a dermatitis of the vulva (an itchy rash). ‗Vaginal thrush‘, ‗monilia‘, and vulvovaginal candidosis are other names used for vulvovaginal candidiasis. About 20% of non-pregnant women aged 15 to 55 harbour Candida albicans in the vagina. Most have no symptoms and it is harmless to them. Overgrowth of Candida albicans causes a heavy white curd-like vaginal discharge, a burning sensation in the vagina and vulva and/or an itchy rash on the vulva and surrounding skin. Oestrogen causes the lining of the vagina to mature and to contain glycogen, a substrate on which Candida albicans thrives. | Vulvovaginal candidosis
