Introduction:
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is considered the most frequent fungal infection affecting women of reproductive age. In more than 85% cases, the etiological factor is Candida albicans, while less frequently other species, such as C. glabrata or C. tropicalis are involved. The purpose of this article is to present the risk factors for developing VVC, the virulence factors of the pathogen, and an analysis of the impact of hormonal contraception on the incidence of infections. Literature shows that hormones, which are the main component of the contraceptives, significantly affect the vaginal microbiota – leading to a reduction in the population of Lactobacillus species and thereby facilitating the colonisation of C. albicans. Population studies confirm that a higher incidence of VVC is observed among women using hormonal contraception, compared to those who do not.

Aim:
Existing reaserch highlights the necessity of monitoring the vaginal microbiota in female patients using hormonal contraceptives, and for considering prophylaxis when selecting contraceptive methods.

Material and methods:
The investigation entails a systematic review executed by exploring primary articles within databases, including PubMed, Semantic Scholar, Medline, Scopus, Science Direct, and EBSCO.

Results and discussion:
The confirming articles 17. The denying articles 4.

Conclusions:
Women using hormonal contraception should remain alert and seek professional advice if characteristic symptoms occur.