7.2.2 Vaginal and vulval infections

General Guidance
 

• Candida Fungal infections: Single or three day courses of pessaries are effective. Oral treatments such as fluconazole should be reserved for resistant or recurrent infections. Clotrimazole and other anti-fungal agents are available over-the-counter in pharmacies.
• Trichomoniasis: investigations should be undertaken to exclude other sexually transmitted disease. Further spread may be prevented by concurrent treatment of current partners and by the patient refraining from sexual intercourse until cured.
• Genital herpes simplex: Aciclovir cream is indicated for the treatment of initial and recurrent genital infections. However systemic treatment is necessary for buccal or vaginal infections and should be given for 5 days (but may be extended in severe infections).