How can yeast infection be treated

They are more common in women who are sexually active. Factors that increase the risk of a vaginal yeast infection include:. Any activity that can cause changes in normal vaginal flora, including douching, can contribute to a yeast infection. Poor diet and lack of sleep may also increase the risk. When diagnosing a vaginal yeast infection, a doctor will start by asking questions about sexual practices and any history of any STIs or previous yeast infections.

They might also perform a pelvic exam to inspect the vulva, vagina, and cervix for signs of infection. A sample of vaginal discharge may be sent to a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis. Examining a swab of vaginal discharge under a microscope can reveal if high levels of yeast are present. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent a Candida infection, certain actions can reduce the risk of developing a vaginal yeast infection.

Oral or intravaginal probiotics may be recommended if a woman has more than three yeast infections annually. Anyone who believes they have symptoms of a yeast infection should speak with a doctor for an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible. Learn more about yeast infections here. Yogurt is a popular home remedy for yeast infections, and research supports its use. Here, learn how to use it, how it works, and when to see a doctor. Some fungi occur naturally in the body, and they can be helpful or harmful.

An infection occurs when an invasive fungus becomes too much for the…. Both hormonal and barrier methods of birth control can increase the risk of a yeast infection. Symptoms include itching, redness, and swelling around…. While a mild vaginal odor is healthy and all vaginas have a different smell, a strong scent of onions may indicate a problem. In this article, we…. Vaginal yeast infections are common and the result of an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina.

How long vaginal yeast infections last can vary…. What you need to know about a yeast infection. Medically reviewed by Rachel Liberto, R. Share on Pinterest Frequent symptoms of vaginal yeast infection include itching, burning, and vaginal discharge. Vaginal Candidiasis.

Minus Related Pages. About Candidiasis is an infection caused by a yeast a type of fungus called Candida. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: epidemiology, microbiology and risk factors external icon. Criti Rev Microbiol ; Sobel JD. Vulvovaginal candidosis external icon. Lancet ; Clinical practice guideline for the management of candidiasis: update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America external icon.

Clin Infect Dis ;e Estimation of direct healthcare costs of fungal diseases in the United States external icon. Clin Infect Dis. Enter your email to get updates on C. What's this? Don't treat it yourself. Compare your options. Compare Option 1 Self-treat your yeast infection Don't self-treat. Compare Option 2 Self-treat your yeast infection Don't self-treat. Self-treat your yeast infection Self-treat your yeast infection You use over-the-counter antifungal medicines to treat the infection.

Medicine is used as a cream or a suppository you insert in your vagina. Depending on the medicine, treatment can last 1 to 7 days. You avoid the time of a doctor visit. Antifungal treatments cure yeast infections in 80 to 90 out of women who have them. If you aren't sure that your symptoms are caused by a yeast infection, you might be delaying diagnosis and treatment of your true problem.

Antifungal treatments don't cure yeast infections in 10 to 20 out of women who have them. Side effects of vaginal medicines can include burning and soreness when high doses are used. These treatments may not work if you get yeast infections often. Don't self-treat Don't self-treat If your symptoms are mild, you can wait to see if they go away on their own. You can see your doctor to confirm that you have a yeast infection. If you do, you can treat it with over-the-counter medicine or a pill that your doctor prescribes.

If you see a doctor, you can know for sure that the problem you are treating is a yeast infection. If your problem is not a yeast infection, your doctor can prescribe the right treatment. For pregnant women, seeing a doctor is the safest choice. There are no real risks or side effects. But you may spend time on a doctor visit that you did not need.

Or your infection may not get better on its own, so you'd still need to get treatment. Personal stories about self-treating a possible vaginal yeast infection These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. What matters most to you? Reasons to treat a vaginal yeast infection yourself Reasons not to treat a yeast infection yourself. I'm sure I have a yeast infection.

I'm not sure I have a yeast infection. I don't want to spend time on a doctor visit. I don't mind spending time on a doctor visit. I'm not worried about the side effects of antifungal medicines. I'm worried about the side effects of antifungal medicines. I know I'm not pregnant. I think I might be pregnant. My other important reasons: My other important reasons:. Where are you leaning now? Treating my yeast infection myself NOT treating my yeast infection myself.

What else do you need to make your decision? Check the facts. Yes Sorry, that's not right. If you're pregnant, see your doctor before you treat your symptoms so you can make sure you have a yeast infection. No You're right. I'm not sure It may help to go back and read "Get the Facts.

Yes You're right. No Sorry, that's not right. You could have another problem that needs different treatment. Decide what's next. Yes No. I'm ready to take action. I want to discuss the options with others. I want to learn more about my options. Your Summary. Your decision Next steps. Your knowledge of the facts Key concepts that you understood.