Survey of Vaginal Candidiasis in a Cytopathology Laboratory in Blumenau, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is an infection caused by fungi of the genus Candida that affects many women. Candida, which is part of the normal human microbiota, may be transmitted endogenously or exogenously and can cause intense patient discomfort, especially under hormonal fluctuations and immune imbalance. Approximately 75% of women experience at least one episode of vulvovaginal infection caused by Candida spp. during their lifetime. In Brazil, there are no national epidemiological data because it is not a notifiable disease; however, Candida spp. are estimated to account for 20–25% of cases of vulvovaginitis. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis in a cytopathology laboratory in Blumenau, Santa Catarina, in 2023. A retrospective, exploratory, quantitative study was conducted. Data such as age, period/season of infection, contraceptive medication use, and associated predisposing factors were organized into charts and tables using Microsoft Excel. Among 5,014 samples analyzed, 320 (6.38%) were positive for Candida spp., and 4 patients had a recurrent episode within the same year. The highest positivity rate was observed among patients aged 41–50 years (98 women; 31.01%). Regarding predisposing factors related to contraception, among hormonal contraceptive methods, 80 patients (25.31%) used oral contraceptives, 24 (7.59%) used an intrauterine device (IUD), 15 (4.74%) used injectable contraceptives, and 1 (0.31%) used a vaginal ring. Other predisposing factors included menopause (43 women; 13.61%), smoking (18; 5.7%), and cancer diagnosis (3; 0.95%). The months with the highest number of infections were March (47 positive cases; 13.43%) and February (35; 10%). Vulvovaginal candidiasis was more frequent among women aged 41–50 years, suggesting an association with the reproductive period. Factors such as contraceptive use, smoking, menopause, and warm climate influence infection occurrence. Accurate diagnosis is essential for adequate treatment and to minimize impacts on women’s physical and mental health.