Until a few days ago, the clotrimazole one of many “staple” medicines for women’s health, has taken on an unexpected role, after photos published by Daniela Aranguiz in social networks. It showed an article of underwear accompanied by this antifungal cream prescribed to treat vaginal yeast infections, as well as the following message addressed to the Deputy Maite Orsini “You should pay more attention to your hygiene.”

Beyond the controversy, the publication linked cleanliness to the well-being of the vaginal area, which, in general, is affected by multiple factors: PH imbalances, hormonal changes, use of antibiotics, stress. What do we know about vaginal fungi? To what extent are they still socially associated with vulvar hygiene? And what does this myth say about how little we know about women’s health?

Fungal infections are a common condition caused by candida yeast: a fungus that is part of the normal flora of the human body, present in the mouth, digestive tract and genitals ; and that, under certain conditions, it can grow excessively.

This the proliferation generates various symptoms ranging from itching to inflammation and vaginal irritation having a dense, lumpy discharge (similar to ricotta) and/or discomfort when urinating or having sex.

In clinical terms this is called a vaginal yeast infection and it is such a common condition that, data published by the Mayo Clinic , estimate that 3 out of 4 women will be affected by this condition at some point in their lives. Indeed, its prevalence is such that these infections are one of the most frequent reasons for consultation by patients, according to specialists.

But, what factors favor the appearance of vaginal mycoses? Nicole Auset (@dra.nicole.ausset ), gynecologist at Clínica Las Condes, explains that there can be several reasons that trigger them, such as vaginal pH imbalances, hormonal and/or immune system problems, use of antibiotics, diabetes or stress. “Also, we are in a culture where we think the vagina should be an aseptic place, that is, it should be too clean. And in fact, you should know that the vagina has its self-washing mechanism, so excessive “grooming” is also harmful, because soaps generate changes in PH, and this deregulates the internal flora” indicates and adds that the daily use of protections and synthetic pants can also trigger the proliferation of fungi by retaining moisture.

For her part, Daniela Ribbeck (@dani.gynecologist ), gynecologist and member of the Board of Gynecologists of Chile, also explains that since candida depends on estrogen levels, these infections develop especially in women of childbearing age, that is, when these indicators are the highest. In addition, he points out that it is not a sexually transmitted disease, although he explains that more episodes could be generated in sexually active women, who have sex with men without a condom. Indeed, the pH of sperm, being more basic, can generate an imbalance of the vaginal microbiota.

“The problem is that there is a significant stigma against vaginal bulb infections, even when they are not produced through sexual transmission. This invites us to reflect on whether we make the same judgment with men and the way they experience their sexuality. We tend to categorize people who have this type of fungus as promiscuous even though it is very common. It tells us about a lack of sex education and the need to break with the stigma associated with gynecological health,” says Daniela.

Although treatment depends on the severity and frequency of infections, specialists usually prescribe antifungals, available as creams, tablets or suppositories. However, the most important thing about avoiding vaginal fungus, doctors say, is prevention and vulvar health care. For this, some of the recommended tips are to wash the vulva only with water, maximum twice a day; wiping back and forth after going to the toilet; avoid full cavity depilation; wear cotton pants; not self-medicating with antibiotics; avoid wet underwear after sports; do not hold urine; among others. “Now, if we follow this advice and we still have symptoms, it is better to consult specialists to carry out studies and, according to the results, leave a specific treatment”, concludes Daniela.