Comprehensive review of conventional and non-conventional methods of management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Abstract Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a condition what causes women a great deal of discomfort, inconvenience,and sometimes has psychological sequelae. 1 This condition is notoriously difficult to manage. Conventionalmanagement is generally favoured by medical practitioners. Some practitioners prefer not to offer other optionsbecause of significant possible side-effects and the lack of research supporting alternative treatments.There are many studies and much available information surrounding uncomplicated VVC, including twosystematic reviews. 2,3 In the area of recurrent VVC however, quality conclusive studies are scarce, and recurrent VVCis featured infrequently in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Systematic reviews that strongly support a particularpharmacological method of conventional management of recurrent VVC over another are absent from medicalliterature. Recommendations are largely formed on the basis of scanty RCTs and expert opinion. There is even lessconclusive evidence in the area of alternative therapies; yet despite this, anecdotally many practitioners (bothalternative and mainstream) continue to advocate certain treatments in the absence of any reliable cure that can beconfidently prescribed.As the use of methods other than mainstream medicine becomes more widespread, it is important to be aware ofboth conventional and non-conventional management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Practitioners need toascertain their patient’s preference and treatment history. It is difficult to find comprehensive literature assessingboth approaches. Giving women the most up-to-date and relevant information, and different management options,is essential in allowing them to make informed decisions. This review critically assesses both mainstream and lessconventional approaches in the management of recurrent VVC. Key words: candidiasis, chronic disease, complementary therapies, recurrent, thrush.