In 1995, there were 1897 new reported VVC cases attending Social Hygiene Clinics. The most common symptom is vulval pruritus. Vaginal discharge is commonly minimal and may be cottage cheese-like or sometimes watery. Vaginal soreness, irritation and dyspareunia may be present. There is typically pre-menstrual exacerbation of symptom.
Physical examination reveals erythema and swelling of the labia and vulva.
Vaginal mucous membrane is inflamed with adherent whitish discharge. It is characterised by the presence of superficial red erosions and thin-walled pustules. Most patients are uncircumcised, as the foreskin provides an occlusive, warm environment for pathogenesis. In all suspected cases, mycological examination should be carried out. Microscopic examination usually reveals the characteristic budding cells and pseudohyphae of Candida in Gram-stained smear prepared from vaginal discharge.