Risk Factors for Candida Vulvovaginitis

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“…Hypothesized risk factors for VVC include pregnancy; a history of VVC; sexual practices, (in particular receptive oral sex); oral contraceptive or replacement therapy; diabetes mellitus and immunodeficiency states [6,72,78,126]. However, definitive evidence relating to each of these factors is limited [7,78].…”

“…However, definitive evidence relating to each of these factors is limited [7,78]. Epidemiologic studies have failed to measure the true attack rate and have been unable to specifically identify characteristics of the at-risk subpopulation [7,57].…”

“…Candida spp may be harboured in the male GIT, semen, oral cavity and urine [78,138], and male colonization is often associated with vaginal colonization often with the same strain of Candida [66,139]. Studies have indicated that oral sex performed by the male partner (cunnilingus) is associated with both incident and recurrent candidiasis [65,69].…”

“…They however did not report on the actual practice these women did with each other! Indeed Reed [78] had suggested that it is the sexual behaviours rather the presence of Candida spp at various body locations of the male partners that are associated with recurrences of genital candidiasis [78]. Receptive oral sex has become fashionable and part of many young partners' sexual repertoire even in the developing world in lieu of penetrative sexual intercourse or part of the foreplay.…”

“…Donders et al [77] opined that diets rich in refined sugar may increase the risk of genital candidiasis [77]. However other studies did not find evidence to support the role of sugar consumption in genital candidiasis [78]. While deficiencies of minerals such as magnesium, zinc, calcium and iron have been associated with genital candidiasis in some studies, the evidence thereto is considered insufficient [79].…”