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Protocols for Vaginal Inoculation and Sample Collection in the Experimental Mouse Model of Candida vaginitis
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Vulvovaginal candidiasis: A global perspective through systematic review and meta-analysis
Zahra Rafat1, Nadia Alipour2, Ehsan Esmaeili3
1Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
Microbial Pathogenesis
|January 9, 2026
Summary
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) affects over 32% of women globally, with Candida albicans being the most common cause. While symptoms like discharge and itching are prevalent, regional variations in VVC epidemiology necessitate standardized diagnostic and reporting methods.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common infection with significant clinical impact.
- Understanding VVC epidemiology is crucial for improving patient outcomes globally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the global prevalence of VVC.
- To identify common pathogens, risk factors, and clinical symptoms associated with VVC.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of studies from 1995-2023.
- Inclusion of 114 population-based studies involving over 1.2 million women.
- PRISMA guidelines followed, with heterogeneity assessed using I² index.
Main Results:
- Global pooled prevalence of VVC estimated at 32.59%, with high heterogeneity (I² = 99.8%).
- Candida albicans identified as the predominant pathogen.
- Pregnancy and oral contraceptive use were common risk factors; curd-like discharge and genital itching were leading symptoms.
Conclusions:
- A substantial global burden of VVC exists, with significant regional variations.
- Common symptoms support symptom-based diagnosis in resource-limited settings.
- Need for context-specific diagnostic approaches and standardized epidemiological methods highlighted.
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