Yeast Infection Treatment
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Guide for
Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment
By Medical Editor:
Dr. Francesco-Maria Serino, MD, PhD
August, 2024
Summary
A yeast infection, also known as thrush, is a common reason for vaginal itching and discharge. Typical symptoms include itching, burning, and irritation around the vulva, often accompanied by a thick, white, clumpy discharge. To diagnose it, doctors look for the presence of Candida yeast in the discharge, usually confirmed through tests like microscopy, cultures, or nucleic acid tests. Some things that might increase the risk of getting a yeast infection include diabetes, using antibiotics, and having high estrogen levels.
What is a vaginal yeast infection (thrush)
A vaginal yeast infection (thrush) is when there’s an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida in the vaginal area, leading to irritation and discomfort. This condition is medically known as vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).
What causes yeast infections?
A yeast infection, specifically vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), occurs when the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of Candida species, particularly Candida albicans. Candida is a type of fungus that is normally present in the vagina in small amounts without causing harm. However, under certain conditions, Candida can multiply excessively.
How do you get a yeast infection
You can get a yeast infection when something disrupts the normal balance of bacteria in your vagina, allowing Candida to overgrow. This can happen if you:
- Take antibiotics, which kill off good bacteria that usually keep Candida in check.
- Have higher estrogen levels, like during pregnancy or hormone therapy.
- Have diabetes, especially if your blood sugar isn’t well controlled.
- Have a weakened immune system due to illness, stress or medication.
- Wear tight or synthetic clothing that traps moisture, creating a warm environment for yeast to grow.
Is it common to get yeast infection after sex?
Yeast infections aren’t usually caused by sex, but sometimes having sex can trigger one, especially if it causes irritation or changes the balance in your vagina. It’s possible for partners to carry the yeast, but sex isn’t a main cause of yeast infections. So, while you can get a yeast infection after sex, it’s not that common.
Is yeast infection a std?
No, a yeast infection isn’t an STD. It’s not spread through sex. Instead, it happens when the balance of yeast in your vagina gets thrown off, often by things like antibiotics, hormone changes, or a weakened immune system.
Yeast infection from antibiotics
Yeast infections can happen after taking antibiotics because the medication can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your body, allowing yeast to overgrow.
Why do antibiotics cause yeast infections?
Antibiotics kill not only the harmful bacteria causing an infection but also the good bacteria that normally keep yeast levels in check. Without these good bacteria, yeast like Candida can multiply more easily, leading to a yeast infection.
Yeast infection after period
Getting a yeast infection after your period is fairly common. Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can affect the balance of bacteria and yeast in your vagina, sometimes leading to an overgrowth of yeast right after your period ends. The extra moisture and pH changes during menstruation can also create an environment where yeast thrives.
Yeast infection and pregnancy
Yeast infections are more likely to happen during pregnancy because of higher estrogen levels. This hormone increase can upset the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina, making it easier for yeast to grow. Although a yeast infection can be uncomfortable for the mother, it usually doesn’t harm the baby and can be treated safely with medications that your doctor can prescribe.
It’s important to mention if you’re pregnant to your healthcare provider so they can recommend the safest treatment options and take your pregnancy into account when diagnosing and treating any health conditions.
Vaginal yeast infection symptoms
Common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:
1. Itching and Irritation: Persistent itching and discomfort in and around the vagina.
2. Burning Sensation: A burning feeling, especially when urinating or during sex.
3. Thick, White, Clumpy Discharge: Often compared to cottage cheese, this discharge is usually odorless and clumpy.
4. Redness and Swelling: Redness, swelling, and soreness of the vulva (the outer part of the female genitals).
5. Pain during Sex: Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse due to irritation.
These symptoms can range from mild to more severe.
Other symptoms of thrush are:
Bumps: Thrush can cause small, raised bumps around the vaginal area, often with redness and itching.
Vulvar Fissures: Thrush can cause painful cracks or fissures in the vulva, especially if the infection is severe or keeps coming back.
Rash: A red, itchy rash in the vaginal area is common with thrush.
These are not yeast infection symptoms
Bleeding: Bleeding isn’t a typical symptom of thrush. If you’re bleeding, it’s important to check with a doctor.
Sores/Ulcers: Thrush usually doesn’t cause sores or ulcers. If you have these, something else might be going on.
Blisters: Blisters aren’t caused by thrush; they’re more commonly linked to infections like herpes.
Yeast infection discharge
A yeast infection, or Candida vulvovaginitis, often causes a noticeable change in vaginal discharge. The discharge is typically thick, white, and clumpy, often described as having a “cottage cheese-like” appearance. It’s usually odorless or has only a mild odor. However, in some cases, the discharge might be thinner, looser, or watery, making it less distinguishable from other vaginal infections .
Difference between BV and yeast infection
- Cause: BV (Bacterial Vaginosis) is caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina, leading to an imbalance in the normal vaginal flora. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida species, a type of fungus.
- Discharge: BV usually produces a thin, grayish-white discharge with a strong, fishy odor. In contrast, a yeast infection often leads to a thick, white, clumpy discharge with no significant odor, often compared to cottage cheese.
- Symptoms: BV generally does not cause significant itching but may be associated with a mild burning sensation. Yeast infections typically cause intense itching, redness, and irritation of the vulva and vagina .
Difference between UTI and yeast infection
- Location: Urinary tract infections affect the urinary system, including the bladder, urethra, or kidneys, whereas yeast infections affect the vaginal area.
- Symptoms: UTIs cause symptoms like burning during urination, a frequent urge to urinate, cloudy urine, and pelvic pain. Yeast infections, however, primarily cause intense itching, redness, and a thick white discharge from the vagina.
- Discharge: UTIs typically do not cause vaginal discharge, while a yeast infection is characterized by thick, white, and clumpy discharge .
How to test for yeast infection
Diagnosing an uncomplicated vaginal yeast infection usually starts with a clinical evaluation. Your healthcare provider will ask about symptoms like itching, burning, and discharge. Sometimes, they may order additional tests, such as:
- Microscopy: A sample of vaginal discharge is examined under a microscope. This can often confirm the presence of Candida yeast cells, as they are easy to spot.
- Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT): This test is very sensitive and specific, used to detect Candida species. It’s especially helpful if the results from microscopy aren’t clear.
- Vaginal Culture: If the infection keeps coming back or doesn’t respond to usual treatments, a culture might be done to identify the exact strain of Candida and check for drug resistance.
These tests help confirm a yeast infection and guide the best treatment approach in severe cases.
Yeast infection treatment
Yeast infections are commonly treated with antifungal medications. These treatments are available in several forms:
Topical treatments
Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal creams, ointments, or suppositories are applied directly inside the vagina. These are typically used for 1 to 7 days depending on the product.
Oral medications
Fluconazole is a common prescription antifungal medication taken by mouth in a single dose. This is often effective for most yeast infections.
Vaginal yeast infection medications
Fluconazole
capsules
Clotrimazole
vaginal suppositories
Having sex with a yeast infection
Having sex while dealing with a yeast infection is not recommended as it can be uncomfortable and might make your symptoms worse. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Discomfort and Pain: Sex can be painful and irritating if you have a yeast infection, making it an unpleasant experience and possibly worsening your symptoms.
2. Potential for Transmission: Although yeast infections aren’t technically sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like Chlamydia, they can be passed to your partner, who might then carry the yeast, even if they don’t show any symptoms.
3. Delay in Healing: Having sex while the infection is active can interfere with the healing process. It’s usually best to wait until the infection is fully treated and your symptoms have cleared up before resuming sexual activity.
4. Risk of Recurrence: Engaging in sexual activity during a yeast infection can increase the chance of the infection coming back, as Candida can be transferred between partners and reintroduced.
How can Doctorsa Virtual Care help with a vaginal yeast infection?
No matter where you are, our platform quickly connects you with doctors for immediate virtual care, available 24/7. A doctor can assess your symptoms and discuss treatment options to help with your yeast infection. You can even receive prescriptions right in your email, along with follow-up care, all from the comfort of wherever you happen to be. It’s the ideal solution for international travelers looking for fast and reliable medical support.
References
- International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease. Recommendations for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Vaginitis. Edited by P. Vieira-Baptista, C.K. Stockdale, and J.S. Sobel. Lisbon: Admedic, 2023.
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Vaginitis in Nonpregnant Patients: ACOG Practice Bulletin, Number 215. Obstetrics & Gynecology 135, no. 5 (2020): e1. Reaffirmed 2022.
- Broache, M., Cammarata, C.L., Stonebraker, E., et al. “Performance of a Vaginal Panel Assay Compared with the Clinical Diagnosis of Vaginitis.” Obstetrics & Gynecology 138, no. 4 (2021): 853.
- Berg, A.O., Heidrich, F.E., Fihn, S.D., et al. “Establishing the Cause of Genitourinary Symptoms in Women in a Family Practice: Comparison of Clinical Examination and Comprehensive Microbiology.” Journal of the American Medical Association 251, no. 5 (1984): 620.
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Just answer a few questions about your BV symptoms and choose a convenient time for your online session. It’s simple and hassle-free, with no need to sign up.
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Reach out to your doctor with any questions you might have, at no extra cost for 7 days following your consultation.
How does it work?
99% of our users solve their issue within 1 hour. No waiting, no language barriers, no insurance needed.
Answer a few questions
Just answer a few questions about your yeast infection symptoms and choose a convenient time for your online session. It’s simple and hassle-free, with no need to sign up.
Select and connect
Doctors respond in minutes. Select your preferred one and start your virtual consultation right from your web browser.
7-day free follow-up chat
Reach out to your doctor with any questions you might have, at no extra cost for 7 days following your consultation.
Your questions answered
What does a yeast infection look like?
A yeast infection (Candida vulvovaginitis) usually leads to redness and swelling in the vaginal area. The discharge that comes with a yeast infection is often thick, white, and clumpy, similar to cottage cheese. It can stick to the vaginal walls but usually doesn’t have a strong smell. The infected area might also look inflamed, and you could notice small cracks or sores caused by irritation and scratching.
Are yeast infections contagious?
In short, yeast infections aren’t highly contagious like many STIs, but they can be passed between sexual partners in certain situations. Here’s what you need to know:
- Candida yeast is normally present in the vagina, but it can occasionally be passed between sexual partners. If a woman has a yeast infection, her partner might carry the same strain of Candida, though they may not show any symptoms. So, while the yeast can be “transmitted,” it doesn’t always lead to an infection or symptoms in the other person.
- The chances of transmission are higher with certain sexual activities, especially oral-genital contact. However, yeast infections are still not classified as traditional STIs, and sexual transmission isn’t the main way they spread.
Why is my discharge clumpy?
Clumpy discharge is a common symptom of a yeast infection (Candida vulvovaginitis). This type of discharge is often thick, white, and resembles cottage cheese. The clumpiness occurs because the overgrowth of yeast in the vagina causes the natural vaginal fluids to become thicker and more textured.
If you’re experiencing this symptom, it’s likely due to the yeast infection disrupting the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in your vagina, leading to the production of this distinct discharge.
How long to wait for sex after yeast infection treatment?
It’s generally recommended to wait until all your symptoms have completely cleared up before having sex after treating a yeast infection. This usually takes about a 7 to 14 days after starting treatment, but it can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the type of treatment used. Waiting ensures that the infection is fully resolved and reduces the risk of discomfort, further irritation, or passing the yeast to your partner. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to check with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
How long does a yeast infection last without treatment?
A yeast infection may persist for weeks or even longer if left untreated. While some mild cases might eventually resolve on their own, this can take a significant amount of time, and symptoms such as itching, burning, and discharge may continue, making it uncomfortable.
Can amoxicillin cause a yeast infection?
Yes, amoxicillin, like other antibiotics, can lead to a yeast infection. Antibiotics work by killing bacteria, including the good bacteria that help keep yeast in check. When these helpful bacteria are reduced, yeast can grow too much, leading to a yeast infection.
Can I get yeast infection treatment without seeing a doctor in-person?
Yes, medications for an uncomplicated yeast infection can be prescribed during a video consultation with a doctor. Some of these medications are not available over the counter and pharmacies do not have doctors on site. To buy antibiotics, you’ll need to carry a doctor’s prescription to a pharmacy. For example, the cost of fluconazole typically ranges from 25 to 40 euros.
How does Doctorsa work?
Open the intake form and choose one of the following options:
- Urgent Care: For immediate treatment of your yeast infection via virtual care.
- Set Up an Appointment: To schedule a same-day or future appointment.
- Prescription Refill: Use this option if you have lost or forgotten your medication.
Next, select how you would like to receive appointment offers from doctors.
We recommend using WhatsApp as it is faster and more reliable. You will quickly receive various visit options. Choose the one that suits you best and proceed to online payment.
Video visits are browser-based, so no apps are needed. Simply click the link you receive to start your video visit in your browser.
After the consultation, expect to receive an invoice and an e-prescription via email. You can show or print the e-prescription to purchase medication at the pharmacy of your choice.
How do I get a prescription from an online doctor?
Following the consultation, the doctor will either email the e-prescription to you or send it via WhatsApp. You can then either print it out or show it directly to the pharmacist when purchasing the medication.
It’s important to understand that doctors must responsibly evaluate each case individually. They can’t simply prescribe medication solely based on a patient’s request or a recommendation from another doctor without confirming that it’s suitable for the patient’s specific condition.
How much does it cost?
The total cost may differ based on the providers. Each one competes for your request, offering a fair price tailored to your needs. On average, an online doctor visit costs 25 Euros. Prices for in-person appointments, specialists, and lab work vary by city. You can send a request to learn more—there’s no commitment to book, and you can select your provider.
Please note that the visit fee doesn’t cover medication expenses, but common antibiotics are quite affordable in Europe. The cost of antibiotic treatment typically ranges from 5 to 15 euros approximately.
Are doctors available on weekends?
Yes, whenever you submit your request it is instantly received by the doctors active at that time. Whether it’s late at night, on a Sunday morning, or on New Year’s Eve, there’s always someone on the other side who’s ready to see you. When you receive an option for an appointment, there’s a person behind it (a doctor) who’s read your request and is willing to assist you.
Can I contact the doctor for follow-up questions after the consultation?
You can message your physician with follow-up questions at no additional cost for up to 7 days after the video visit.
