Women are more susceptible to infections during ovulation, according to a new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology. Austrian and Spanish scientists have found that the risk of sexually transmitted infections is higher when a woman is ovulating compared to the rest of the menstrual cycle. Ovulation is the period when a mature egg, ready for fertilization, is released from a dominant ovarian follicle. The research team is of the opinion that in order for the sperm to survive, the immune response of the female organism weakens, which may be one of the reasons for easier infection with sexually transmitted diseases. Most often, the appearance of a fungal infection, candidiasis, is during the period of ovulation. Candidiasis is caused by the bacteria Candida albicans and is characterized by itching, discharge, burning when urinating. Candida albicans is a normal inhabitant of the human nasopharynx and digestive tract. In small quantities, it can also be present as part of the vaginal flora. Scientists hope that the research will help in timely prevention during the period of ovulation in order to prevent various sexually transmitted diseases, including the AIDS virus.