A vaginal yeast infection, or candidiasis, is a common fungal overgrowth affecting the genital area. This condition occurs when the delicate balance of microorganisms within the vagina is disrupted, allowing naturally present yeast to multiply excessively. The menstrual cycle involves regular hormonal and physical changes, culminating in the shedding of the uterine lining. Many people with candidiasis wonder if menstruation can clear the infection. Understanding the interaction between the vaginal environment and menstrual blood is necessary to determine if the period affects the fungal overgrowth.
What Causes a Yeast Infection
Vaginal candidiasis is primarily caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans, which is part of the normal vaginal flora. In a healthy state, the vagina maintains an acidic environment due to beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria. These bacteria produce lactic acid, which keeps the vaginal pH low (typically 3.8 to 4.5), controlling the growth of yeast and other organisms.
The infection develops when this acidic environment is compromised, allowing Candida to proliferate. Factors disrupting this microbial balance include broad-spectrum antibiotics, which kill off Lactobacillus bacteria. Hormonal shifts, such as high estrogen levels from pregnancy or birth control, can also encourage yeast growth. Additionally, conditions like poorly managed diabetes create a nutrient-rich environment that supports the fungal overgrowth.
The Menstrual Cycle’s Effect on Vaginal pH
The vaginal environment undergoes predictable changes throughout the menstrual cycle in response to fluctuating hormones. The introduction of menstrual blood temporarily alters this environment, leading to speculation that a period might affect a yeast infection.
Menstrual blood has a pH of approximately 7.4, which is significantly higher than the normal vaginal acidity (3.8 to 4.5). When this blood flows into the vagina, it acts as a buffer, temporarily raising the overall vaginal pH level toward neutral.
This temporary neutralization can momentarily change the conditions for the fungal colony and may reduce uncomfortable symptoms. The drop in estrogen levels before and during menstruation can also contribute to a slight shift in the vaginal flora. This change in environment is short-lived, however, and only lasts for the duration of the bleeding phase.
Does Menstrual Bleeding Eliminate the Fungus?
Menstruation is not considered a treatment or cure for candidiasis. The idea that the physical flow of blood will “wash away” the fungal colony is inaccurate. While blood flow removes some superficial discharge, the fungal organisms are often embedded within the deeper layers of the vaginal wall.
Symptoms of a yeast infection, such as itching and burning, may feel less intense during the period due to the neutralization of the vaginal pH. The more neutral environment is less irritating to inflamed tissues than the normal acidic state. This temporary relief often leads to the mistaken belief that the infection is clearing up.
The underlying infection typically remains, and symptoms frequently return immediately after the menstrual flow ceases. Once bleeding stops, the Lactobacillus bacteria quickly restore the normal acidic pH. When the environment returns to its pre-menstrual state, the surviving Candida population rapidly resumes its overgrowth. Relying on menstruation for clearance only delays the necessary antifungal treatment.
Treating Candidiasis During Menstruation
It is important to continue or begin treatment for a yeast infection even when menstrual bleeding is present. Antifungal medications, available over-the-counter or by prescription, remain the standard of care, including vaginal creams, suppositories, or single-dose oral medications.
An oral antifungal medication, such as fluconazole, is often the most convenient and effective option during menstruation, as its efficacy is not affected by blood flow.
Vaginal treatments can be less effective during a period because the ongoing flow of blood and discharge may cause the medication to be expelled before absorption. If vaginal inserts are used, tampons should be avoided as they may absorb the medication, rendering the treatment ineffective. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially for recurrent infections or persistent symptoms.