A hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, does not eliminate the possibility of experiencing a vaginal yeast infection. The vaginal canal remains, and conditions allowing yeast to thrive can still arise.
Why Yeast Infections Can Occur After Hysterectomy
Antibiotics are often prescribed following surgery to prevent bacterial infections. These medications work by killing a wide range of bacteria, including beneficial ones that naturally reside in the vagina. A specific type of bacteria, Lactobacillus, helps maintain an acidic vaginal environment, which discourages yeast overgrowth. When these beneficial bacteria are reduced, the vaginal pH can become less acidic, creating a more favorable environment for Candida to multiply.
Hormonal fluctuations can also contribute to yeast infections after a hysterectomy. If the ovaries are removed during the procedure (oophorectomy), a sudden and significant drop in estrogen levels leads to immediate menopause. This decrease in estrogen can alter the vaginal environment, making it more susceptible to yeast overgrowth. Even if the ovaries are retained, the general stress of surgery can sometimes impact the body’s hormonal balance, indirectly influencing the vaginal microbiome.
The body’s immune system may also be temporarily weakened as it focuses on healing from the surgery. A compromised immune system can make an individual more vulnerable to various infections, including the overgrowth of naturally occurring yeast. Candida normally lives at low levels in the body as part of the microbiome, but a weakened immune response can allow it to multiply excessively and cause symptoms.
Identifying and Treating a Yeast Infection
Common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include intense itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva, the external area around the vaginal opening. A burning sensation may also be present, particularly during urination or sexual intercourse. Many individuals notice a thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese. Redness and swelling of the vulva can accompany these symptoms.
Proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is recommended, especially if it is the first time experiencing these symptoms or if they are severe. Symptoms of a yeast infection can sometimes mimic other vaginal conditions, making an accurate diagnosis important. A doctor may perform a physical examination of the external genitals and use a speculum to view the vagina and cervix. They may also take a sample of vaginal discharge for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of yeast.
Treatment for vaginal yeast infections involves antifungal medications. These can be over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, tablets, or suppositories inserted into the vagina, often for 3 to 7 days. Prescription oral medications, such as fluconazole, are also available and can sometimes clear an infection with a single dose. For persistent or recurrent infections, a healthcare provider might recommend a longer course of treatment or alternative antifungal options. Consult with a doctor for personalized treatment, especially after a hysterectomy.
Strategies for Prevention
Taking probiotics, particularly those containing Lactobacillus strains, may help to restore or maintain a healthy microbial balance in the gut and potentially the vagina, especially after antibiotic use. While some studies suggest probiotics might reduce yeast in the body or help treat infections when combined with other medications, evidence regarding their standalone effectiveness in preventing post-antibiotic yeast infections is debated. Eating yogurt with live active cultures is one dietary way to incorporate beneficial bacteria.
Maintaining good hygiene practices is also an important preventative measure. Wearing breathable underwear, such as cotton, helps to keep the genital area dry and prevents the warm, moist environment where yeast thrives. Avoiding tight-fitting clothing, changing out of wet swimsuits or sweaty workout gear promptly, and wiping from front to back after using the toilet can further reduce moisture and prevent the spread of microorganisms. It is also recommended to avoid harsh or scented soaps, douches, and feminine hygiene sprays, as these can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina.
Dietary adjustments can play a role in managing yeast overgrowth. Since yeast feeds on sugar, limiting the intake of excessive sugars and refined carbohydrates may help curb its growth. While a strict “Candida diet” lacks substantial scientific backing for treating yeast infections, reducing sugar intake can still be a beneficial general health practice. For individuals with diabetes, maintaining well-controlled blood sugar levels is particularly important, as high blood sugar provides an ideal environment for yeast to multiply, increasing the risk of infections.