Mycoses are caused by an overgrowth of fungi. The most common vaginal type of infection is candida.
Fungi are naturally present on everybody’s skin and mucous membranes and can be transmitted during vaginal or oral sex. Fungal infections can lead to symptoms if they proliferate rapidly and/or in cases of a weakened immune system.
If the natural bacterial environment of the vagina is disrupted, for example through the use of vaginal douches, soaps, sprays, drugs or (cosmetic) surgeries, fungi that cause mycoses can settle. A mycosis can stem from an excess of female sex hormones (resulting from the pill or a pregnancy) as well as from a deficit of hormones (after menopause without hormone replacement therapy).
Women:
Fungal infestation of the penis is less frequent. It manifests as
Testing for mycosis involves analysis of a mucosal swab.
Mycosis can be cured with antifungal drugs.
Mycosis needs to be treated only in case of symptoms. Sexual partners should get a medical exam if they experience symptoms themselves.
The following rules apply to women:
And for men:
The following rules apply to women as well as men:
