19.07.2021 – 19:24
Many people are familiar with the symptoms of fungal infections, but may not know that it can cause some bleeding. If those who have a yeast infection notice blood after using the toilet, it can be alarming and make them suspect if they have a fungal infection or something more serious.
Fungal infections (also called candidiasis) usually occur in women when there is an overgrowth of Candida fungi. When it touches the vagina and the tissues in the opening of the vagina (vulva), it is called a vaginal fungal infection. The human body has Candida at all times and the immune system is tasked with controlling its growth. If the vaginal chemistry falls out of balance, the normal fungus that lives in the vagina can grow too large and lead to an infection. This can be caused by many different things, such as a weakened immune system, pregnancy, and even normal hormonal changes during a menstrual cycle.
Fungal infections and bleeding
A fungal infection can lead to minor bleeding, but may not occur in all or any of the fungal infections that a woman gets throughout her life. Typically, bleeding is not to be worried about. It is caused by small cuts, cracks or wounds in the vaginal tissues that can occur due to infection. Those most at risk of bleeding during an infection are those who have recurrent fungal infections.
A fungal infection is a type of vaginitis, which refers to certain disorders that cause inflammation of the vagina. Inflammation can lead to pain, swelling, itching and bleeding. Vaginitis is usually the result of a change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria, an infection, or reduced estrogen levels after menopause. There are seven common types of vaginitis, and fungal infection is one of them. The other six include bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, chlamydia or gonorrhea, viral vaginitis, noninfectious vaginitis, and atrophic vagina.
These conditions present similarly in terms of symptoms. Everyone requires different treatments and so should be investigated by a doctor before trying any over-the-counter medication. Vaginitis types and other conditions can also cause bleeding similar to that of a fungal infection.
Other symptoms
Not everyone experiences bleeding when they have a fungal infection, so it is important to know the other signs of an infection. Symptoms that occur in someone with a vaginal fungal infection, from the most common to the least common, include:
Extreme itching around and inside the vagina
White or yellow discharge, watery or thick in nature
Swelling and redness of the vulva and vagina
Small cuts or cracks in the skin
Burning sensation when urinating
Pain during sexual intercourse
Bleeding for any reason outside the typical menstrual period requires a visit to the doctor. If you suspect a fungal infection is to blame for the bleeding and it continues after treatment and resolution of other symptoms, talk to your doctor because it could be a sign of another health issue.
