Can Diabetes Lead To Vaginal Infections?

Vaginal infections can include infection and inflammation of the vagina that occurs when there is an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria in the region. Such infections can cause pain along with a burning sensation while urinating, unpleasant smell, itchiness, and excessive discharge. Women with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing vaginal infections, especially if their blood sugar levels are not kept in check [1]. This makes it important for women with diabetes to recognize the symptoms of vaginal infections so that they can receive prompt treatment and avoid potentially serious complications. A bacterial infection is usually treated with antibiotics, while a yeast infection can be treated with antifungal agents.

How Diabetes Triggers Vaginal Infection?

If a woman’s blood sugar levels are consistently high, it creates an environment in the vagina that is favorable to the overgrowth of yeast and bacteria. Additionally, poorly managed diabetes is known to compromise immune function, increasing the risk of infections. These are regarded as the two main reasons for the increased risk of vaginal infections in diabetic women.

Complications Of Vaginal Infections Due To Diabetes

In women with diabetes, symptoms can become increasingly severe within a shorter period of time and infections can also be harder to treat. If not treated appropriately, this can increase the risk of complications. 

Acidity In The Vaginal Area And Yeast Growth

People with diabetes have higher levels of glycogen, a polysaccharide that the body utilizes to store glucose. Extra glycogen in the vaginal area can cause an increase in acidity and contribute to yeast growth [2]. 

Recurring Infections

Once yeast or bacteria has colonized an area, there is always a high risk of the infection recurring. A woman who is prone to bacterial or yeast infections, due to poor management of blood sugar levels, will have an even higher risk of recurring infections. Some may experience a sign of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC), which is more common in women with diabetes [3].

Cure For Vaginal Infections

If you have reason to believe that you have a vaginal infection, make sure to consult your health care provider immediately. Doctors can help make an accurate diagnosis and will prescribe medications accordingly. With treatment, vaginal yeast infections generally clear up within 14 days. Your doctor may recommend topical treatments like antifungal creams, ointments, or suppositories, as these treatments are effective during the early stages of an infection. If the infection is severe and does not respond to such treatments, your doctor can also prescribe an oral antifungal medication. On the other hand, bacterial infections are typically treated with antibiotics. 

According to a research [4], more than half of all women with diabetes who develop yeast infections, the infection is linked to a specific species of the fungus called Candida Glabrata. They also discovered that this fungus responds better to a long course of suppository medication. However, your doctor will be the best judge of which treatment is appropriate for you.

Takeaway

If you have diabetes, you should undergo periodic screening for vaginal yeast infections as early diagnosis improves the efficacy of treatment and can help reduce the risk of complications. Your doctor may also be able to recommend best practices that can help you control your blood sugar levels. As effective management of blood sugar levels is critical to preventing recurrent vaginal infections, your doctor will also evaluate your diabetes management plan and will recommend any changes in treatment if necessary. 

Reference Links:

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340899671_Vaginal_infections_in_diabetic_woman
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC96867/
3. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2001/0215/p697.html
4. https://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/30/2/312