How to Treat a Yeast Infection

A yeast infection is one of the most common conditions in women. Yeast is a type of fungus that naturally exists in small amounts in the vagina. Also known as a vaginal yeast infection, it occurs when there is an overgrowth of yeast cells. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to more severe pain, but in most cases, it is easy to treat. All you need to do is pay attention to symptoms as they arise, such as pain, burning, itching, and heat.

Identify the symptoms. There are several physical signs that suggest a yeast infection, the most common of which include:

• Itching, burning, and general discomfort in the vaginal area.
• Pain or a burning sensation during urination or intercourse.
• Vaginal discharge that is thick and white (similar to cottage cheese). Note that not all women experience this symptom.

Consider the causes. If you're unsure whether you have a vaginal yeast infection, it's helpful to review some common triggers for fungal infections:

• Antibiotics - Many women experience a yeast infection after taking antibiotics for several days. Antibiotics eliminate beneficial bacteria in the body, including the ones that prevent yeast overgrowth, leading to infection. If you recently took antibiotics and feel heat or itching in the vagina, you might have a yeast infection.
• Menstruation - Women are more susceptible to yeast infections around their period. Therefore, if the symptoms appear near your menstrual cycle, it could be a sign of infection.
• Birth control - Birth control pills and emergency contraception can alter hormone levels, which might lead to a yeast infection.
• Current health conditions - Some conditions like HIV and diabetes can increase the risk of vaginal yeast infections.
• Pregnancy - Hormonal changes during pregnancy raise the risk of yeast infections during this time.
• General health - Illness, obesity, unhealthy sleep habits, and stress can also increase the risk of infections.

Buy a pH test paper at home. Just like during pregnancy, there are ways to test what’s happening down there. The normal pH of the vagina is about 4, slightly acidic. Follow the instructions provided with the product.

• For this test, press a pH strip against the vaginal walls for a few seconds. Then compare the color of the strip with the color chart included in the package. The number closest to the color on the pH paper is the pH value of the vaginal environment.
• If the test result is above 4, it’s best to visit a healthcare provider. This result does not necessarily indicate a yeast infection but could signal another type of infection.
• If the result is below 4, it’s likely you have a yeast infection (though not certain).

Confirm the diagnosis with a doctor. If you’ve never had a yeast infection before or aren’t sure about your test results, you should visit a gynecologist. The doctor or nurse will perform a quick vaginal exam and use a cotton swab to collect a sample of vaginal discharge to count the yeast cells. This is called a wet mount method. The doctor may also recommend further tests to rule out other potential causes of the infection.

• Although yeast infections are common among women, it's difficult to self-diagnose them accurately. Studies show that only 35% of women with a history of yeast infections can correctly diagnose their condition based on symptoms alone. Conditions like genital herpes or laundry detergent allergies are often mistaken for yeast infections.
• Remember, there are many other reasons for abnormal vaginal discharge that can cause discomfort, including infections like bacterial vaginosis or Trichomonas vaginalis. For example, yeast infections have symptoms similar to sexually transmitted diseases. If you experience recurring yeast infections, your doctor may perform a culture test to determine whether it’s caused by a different type of Candida than C. albicans.
• Pregnant women should consult their doctor before treating vaginal yeast infections.

Be cautious when self-treating. You should only attempt to treat a yeast infection on your own if you're completely confident in your self-diagnosis. However, keep in mind that even many women who have experienced yeast infections in the past can make mistakes in diagnosing. If you have even a slight doubt about your diagnosis, you should see a doctor for an evaluation.

Take prescribed medication. Your doctor may prescribe fluconazole (Diflucan), a single-dose antifungal treatment. The medication typically works within 12-24 hours.

• This is the quickest and most effective way to treat vaginal yeast infections. If you're experiencing severe symptoms, it’s best to see a doctor to determine if this is the right treatment for you.

Use topical treatments. This is the most common way to treat a yeast infection, and these medications are available both over-the-counter and by prescription. These treatments include creams, ointments, and suppositories, which are applied or inserted into the vagina. You can find creams and ointments at most pharmacies or supermarkets. If you're unsure where to buy them, ask your doctor for recommendations.

• The active ingredients in these medications belong to a group called azoles, including clotrimazole (Mycelex), butoconazole (Gynezol or Femstat), miconazole nitrate (Monistat), and tioconazole (Vagistat-1). When purchasing, you can choose a regimen (for example, one application or a course of 1 to 3 days). It's advisable to consult your doctor to find the most appropriate option for you.
• Be sure to carefully read the instructions provided with the medication, as they will explain how to apply the cream or insert the medication into the vagina. Always follow the instructions precisely. If you’re uncertain about any steps, ask your doctor for guidance.

Complete the full course of treatment. Do not stop using the medication prematurely, even if your symptoms subside. You must follow the prescribed regimen as indicated.

• If after 2-3 days of using over-the-counter medication the symptoms do not improve, it’s important to see a doctor for alternative treatment options.
• Be cautious when using condoms if you're applying antifungal creams or vaginal suppositories. Some medications contain oils that can weaken the material of latex condoms.

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection. While mild yeast infections may resolve within a few days, more severe cases may take longer to heal. In some cases, doctors prescribe treatment for up to two weeks.

• If you frequently suffer from yeast infections, you should discuss it with your doctor. It could be a sign of hormonal imbalances or the need to adjust your diet.
• To keep yeast levels under control, your doctor may prescribe medications such as Diflucan or Fluconazole to be taken once or twice a week for six months. Alternatively, they may recommend clotrimazole, a vaginal suppository to be used once a week instead of oral medication.

Drink 100% pure cranberry juice. Cranberries are effective in treating and preventing yeast infections and urinary tract infections. Make sure to buy 100% pure cranberry juice, as any added sugar will only worsen the issue.

• Cranberry extract is also available in supplement form.
• Because it’s a mild remedy, cranberry juice is especially useful if you think you're in the early stages of a vaginal yeast infection. If you already have cranberry supplements at home, it’s a great addition to other treatments.

Consume or apply unsweetened yogurt. You can eat yogurt or apply it directly to your vagina. Some women insert yogurt using a needle-free syringe or freeze it in a tampon applicator to insert it. The idea behind this method is that yogurt contains live bacteria (lactobacillus acidophilus) that help restore the beneficial bacteria in the vagina.

• Some reports suggest that certain women have successfully treated yeast infections by consuming yogurt with lactobacillus bacteria, though this method has not been scientifically validated. Many studies indicate that there is little to no benefit in eating or using yogurt to treat a vaginal yeast infection.

Take probiotics. You can take supplements containing lactobacillus acidophilus, commonly known as probiotics. These products are widely available at pharmacies. Some women even use probiotic vaginal suppositories to treat yeast infections, though the evidence supporting this approach is unclear and further research is required.

• Generally, probiotics are considered safe as they are similar to the beneficial bacteria naturally found in the body. Additionally, certain probiotics have been used in fermented foods and drinks, such as yogurt, for years. However, more studies are needed to determine the safety of probiotics for widespread use, particularly among those with weaker immune systems, such as the elderly and children.
• ALWAYS consult with your doctor before using probiotics vaginally. Most healthcare providers recommend oral probiotics over vaginal application.

Reduce sugar and caffeine consumption. Sugars in chocolate, candy, and even fruit juices can increase blood sugar levels, which promotes yeast growth. Caffeine also contributes to this by further raising blood sugar levels.

• If you frequently suffer from yeast infections, consider cutting back on sugar and caffeine in your daily diet.

Be mindful of the clothing you wear. Avoid tight-fitting underwear and opt for cotton underwear to allow the vagina to 'breathe' and stay cool. Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments, so clothing should create a dry, breathable atmosphere to prevent yeast overgrowth.

• Change your underwear daily and wear loose-fitting underwear, shorts, and skirts.
• Remove wet clothes, such as swimsuits and exercise attire, as soon as possible.
• Avoid hot baths or soaking in overly warm water, as yeast thrives in warm, moist conditions.

Use Alka Seltzer. Although it is marketed as a remedy for stomach aches, fatigue from alcohol consumption, and muscle soreness, it is not intended for treating vaginal yeast infections. However, the citric acid in Alka Seltzer can be effective in addressing yeast infections during their early stages.

Use apple cider vinegar: When diluted with water, this solution can be used as a vaginal douche to treat yeast infections. It’s recommended to use this mixture to rinse the vagina once or twice a day. Additionally, you can apply apple cider vinegar directly to the vaginal area with a cotton ball to help reduce inflammation and itching.

Apply coconut oil: Coconut oil is an excellent treatment if you’re dealing with a vaginal yeast infection. Apply coconut oil around the vaginal area regularly, at least twice a day. It can effectively kill Candida yeast and completely treat the infection.

Garlic: Garlic is another effective remedy for yeast infections. Cut a garlic clove in half and insert it into the vagina overnight. Repeat this process for several nights to see results. However, be cautious as garlic can create a warming sensation in the vagina, and of course, the strong smell may be uncomfortable.

• Avoid sexual intercourse until the vaginal yeast infection is fully resolved. While this type of infection is not transmitted through sexual activity, men may experience itching after having intercourse with someone who has a vaginal yeast infection.
• If you experience more than four yeast infections per year (referred to as vulvovaginal candidiasis), it is advisable to see a doctor as it could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as diabetes.
• Follow up with your doctor if symptoms persist after treatment. It’s important to note that not all over-the-counter medications are effective for every woman.