Alternative and complementary therapies for vulvovaginal candidiasis

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Background:

• Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common gynecological issue, driving demand for novel treatments.
• Existing treatments necessitate alternatives with fewer side effects, better tolerability, and lower costs.
• Interest in alternative and complementary therapies for VVC has grown significantly since the 1980s.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate alternative and complementary therapies for the adjuvant treatment of Candida species-induced vulvovaginitis.
• To review alternative and complementary treatment methods utilized by women for VVC.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and SciELO databases.
• Articles were selected in English and Portuguese, accessed primarily through the Capes Periodicals Portal.
• The review focused on alternative therapies for VVC, including those with antifungal, microbiota-balancing, or virulence-inhibiting properties.

Main Results:

• Alternative treatments for VVC encompass substances with antifungal activity, those restoring vaginal microbiota balance, and those inhibiting microbial virulence factors.
• Some natural products like propolis, garlic, and tea tree oil, alongside chemical agents like boric acid and vinegar, are explored.
• Despite potential benefits, some alternative therapies may have undesirable side effects and lack robust clinical study data.

Conclusions:

• Alternative therapies can effectively complement VVC treatment when used appropriately.
• Scientific literature supports the use of alternative therapies for VVC.
• Caution is advised regarding potential side effects of certain chemical and natural agents used in alternative VVC treatments.