Can povidone-iodine prevent fungal infections?
Disease description:
There's a persistent itching sensation "down there," and I'm worried it might be a fungal infection. Can povidone-iodine be used for prevention? I've heard someone mention it before, but I'm not sure whether it's effective or not.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Povidone-iodine is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent available in various formulations such as solutions and suppositories. In general, povidone-iodine can prevent fungal infections.
Povidone-iodine is composed of elemental iodine bound to a polymer carrier and is commonly used for medical, hygiene, and daily disinfection purposes. Povidone-iodine has significant bactericidal and disinfectant properties, effectively killing or inhibiting various pathogens, including fungi, Staphylococcus aureus, and Trichomonas vaginalis.
Upon contact with wounds or affected areas, povidone-iodine depolymerizes and releases the iodine it contains, thereby exerting its antibacterial effect and effectively preventing fungal infections. This medication can not only be used to treat gynecological conditions such as vulvovaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, or mixed-infection vaginitis, but is also widely applied for disinfection and antisepsis of skin and mucous membranes, such as minor skin infections, burns, scalds, and mucosal wounds.
When using povidone-iodine to prevent fungal infections, medical advice should be followed to avoid unnecessary overuse, ensuring both the safety and effectiveness of the medication.
