Your symptoms sure sound like fungus to me. I'm not sure why the grief about the diflucan, unless you would be taking it for extended periods of time. It may cause side effects, but I don't think it is as bad as a 'host of serious side effects'. I have read it has a relatively safe profile...whatever that means. How about a natural, herbal antifungal like olive leaf extract or caprylic acid, if you prefer something natural?
Were you ever on antibiotics before your symptoms appeared? Even back as a child. If so, your good bacteria was overrun with the bad, and allowed yeast to proliferate in its' (good bacteria) absence. Just pumping yourself with probiotics will not get rid of the fungus. Are you hesitant to try an antifungal diet, eliminating the sugar/yeast foods? I found much relief after that, along with the natural antifungals.