Vaginal Candidiasis: Symptoms

What are the symptoms of vaginal candidiasis?

Women who have vaginal candidiasis may experience itching and a thick, white discharge. They may notice redness and swelling around the vagina and may experience pain with urination or intercourse. The intensity of symptoms can vary from person to person.

Common symptoms of vaginal candidiasis

Common symptoms of vaginal candidiasis include:

• Itchy feeling in the vagina and the tissue around it (vulva)
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Pain or burning with urination
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Thick, white vaginal discharge that has a texture similar to cottage cheese

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

Vaginal candidiasis is rarely an emergency medical condition by itself. In people who have weakened immune systems, it is possible for the infection to spread into the bloodstream and cause invasive candidiasis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Also, other types of vaginal or pelvic infections may be mistaken for vaginal candidiasis. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms including:

• Bleeding while pregnant
• Chest pain, chest tightness, chest pressure, palpitations
• High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing, wheezing, not breathing, choking
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• Uncontrolled nausea and vomiting