Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken, causing one or more organs to descend from their normal position. This physical change often results in a bulge within the vaginal canal or at the vaginal opening. A yeast infection, also known as Candidiasis, is a common vaginal infection caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Candida. This article explores how the anatomical changes associated with POP might influence the vaginal environment and increase the likelihood of developing a fungal infection.
Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor structures—muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue—become stretched or damaged. When these supports weaken, the organs move downward, creating a protrusion or bulge into the vagina that can range from mild to severe.
The specific organ that descends determines the type of prolapse. A cystocele involves the bladder sagging into the front vaginal wall. A rectocele occurs when the rectum bulges into the back vaginal wall, and a uterine prolapse involves the uterus descending into the vaginal canal.
The descent of the organ alters the normal vaginal anatomy and puts pressure on the vaginal walls. This often creates the sensation of heaviness or a noticeable lump. This physical change is the foundation for how the condition may impact other aspects of pelvic health.
The Connection Between Prolapse and Increased Infection Risk
Pelvic organ prolapse does not directly introduce the Candida fungus, but it can create conditions favorable for its overgrowth. The structural changes caused by the prolapse disrupt the delicate balance of the vaginal microbiome. This environment relies on protective bacteria, primarily Lactobacillus, to maintain a healthy, slightly acidic pH.
When tissue bulges into the vaginal canal, it changes the natural flow of discharge and moisture. This altered anatomy can lead to trapped moisture, creating a warm, damp environment ideal for fungal proliferation. In advanced prolapse, tissue may protrude outside the body, leading to exposed or irritated tissue that compromises the skin barrier.
The anatomical distortion can also make routine hygiene challenging, potentially leading to the accumulation of irritants. Chronic irritation or micro-trauma to the vaginal lining caused by the prolapse can lead to inflammation. This inflammation, combined with a disrupted pH balance, suppresses the growth of protective Lactobacillus bacteria. When the Lactobacillus count drops, opportunistic organisms like Candida can multiply rapidly and cause symptomatic infection.
Differentiating Symptoms and When to See a Doctor
The symptoms of a yeast infection and the discomfort associated with prolapse can sometimes overlap, making self-diagnosis difficult. Yeast infection symptoms include intense vaginal or vulvar itching, a burning sensation, and a thick, white discharge often described as cottage cheese-like. Pain during urination or intercourse may also be present due to inflammation.
In contrast, prolapse symptoms are primarily mechanical. These include a sensation of pelvic heaviness or pressure, the feeling of something falling out, or seeing a visible bulge of tissue at the vaginal opening. These sensations often worsen throughout the day or with physical exertion and can also lead to urinary issues, such as difficulty emptying the bladder.
Consulting a healthcare provider is necessary because the conditions can influence each other. A gynecologist or urogynecologist can perform a physical examination to accurately diagnose the presence and severity of the prolapse. Accurate diagnosis determines if the discomfort is caused by the prolapse, a coexisting infection, or both. Recurrent vaginal infections may signal that the anatomical changes from the prolapse are continually predisposing the environment to fungal overgrowth.