Depression, anxiety, stress, and health quality of life in vulvovaginal candidiasis

Abstract Background: Candidal vulvovaginitis is a common fungal infection among women, affecting nearly 80% of adult women. Chronic and recurrent cases significantly impact the quality of life, often due to prolonged and indiscriminate use of antifungal drugs, leading to resistance. This resistance can result in prolonged, costly treatment and notable emotional and psychological effects. The study aims to compare the psychological effects of depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as quality of life, in women with recurrent candidal vulvovaginitis to those with non-recurrent forms of infection. Methods The study first gathered demographic information from individuals with recurring and non-recurring candidal vulvovaginitis in health centers across Kerman City using a relevant questionnaire. Additionally, the impact of Candida vulvaginitis infection on stress, anxiety, and depression levels was assessed using a researcher-made questionnaire adapted from the DASS questionnaire. Furthermore, the participants' physical and mental well-being was evaluated using the SF-36 health-related quality of life questionnaire, consisting of 8 questions and 6 components. Results A total of 84 women participated in the study: 42 with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) and 42 without RVVC. After analyzing the data from the completion of two questionnaires by patients in the two groups, a significant difference in Quality of Life (QoL) was observed between them (P=0.03). However, no significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of depression (P=0.674), anxiety (P=0.938), and stress (P=0.615). Conclusion Vulvovaginal candidosis significantly affects women's QoL and mental health worldwide. While its impact varies among infection forms, no significant differences were found in stress, anxiety, and depression. Clinical intervention should focus on addressing these effects, and further research with control groups is warranted for deeper understanding.