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Vaginal yeast infections are uncomfortable, causing itching, irritation, and discharge. They’re also quite common.
They can usually be managed with over-the-counter treatments and home remedies.
A vaginal yeast infection (or vulvovaginal candidiasis) is a fungal infection that may cause symptoms to the vagina or vulva, including:
- burning
- swelling
- irritation
- soreness
- discharge
- itchiness
They’re also quite common, affecting
A vaginal yeast infection isn’t considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI). But, there’s an increased risk of vaginal yeast infection at the time of first regular sexual activity.
Yeast infections can develop for a variety of reasons. You may get one around your period or during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Certain birth control pills may also increase your risk of getting a yeast infection.
Yeast (Candida) is a fungus that can live almost anywhere. It’s found naturally in your body, but your immune system keeps it from growing out of control. When too much yeast multiplies in the vagina, it causes an infection.
Anything that changes the balance of bacteria and yeast in your vagina has the potential to cause a yeast infection.
For example, antibiotics taken to treat a harmful bacterial infection may also kill the Lactobacillus bacteria, the good bacteria in your vagina that keep yeast in check.
Conditions that affect your immune system, such as STIs, can also contribute to yeast infections. If you have diabetes and aren’t managing your blood sugar, you may also be at higher risk. This is because high sugar levels promote yeast growth.
Here’s how to manage a yeast infection and how to prevent future ones as well.
Yeast infection symptoms may vary from mild to moderate and
- vaginal itching and irritation
- a burning feeling during urination or sex
- redness
- swelling
- soreness
- pain
- rash
- thick vaginal discharge
If you’re looking to get rid of your current yeast infection, your first course of action will likely be an over-the-counter (OTC) medication.
Antifungal cream or suppository
OTC medications for yeast infections usually come in the form of a cream, ointment, or suppository. They’re available at most drug stores or grocery stores.
Some medications only require a 1-day treatment. Others may need to be used from 3 to 7 days. Follow the instructions on the packaging, and don’t stop using the medication early even if your symptoms are gone.
These OTC medications are generally effective for people who have mild infections and don’t get yeast infections often.
Shop for Monistat and Vagistat online.
Home remedies
While medication is a more proven method of getting rid of an infection, there are some natural and home remedies to try as well.
Boric acid
Boric acid is a chemical that has antiseptic and antifungal properties. It’s used as a suppository for yeast infections, usually once a day for 7 days. Boric acid is sometimes used when yeast infections don’t respond to other antifungal medications.
A
Generally, this is prescribed by doctors if a yeast infection is resistant to other, more easily tolerated methods. Talk with your doctor before using this treatment.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains good bacteria, also called probiotics. Some of these, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, are also found naturally in the vagina.
Eating yogurt or taking probiotic supplements may help maintain the proper balance of good bacteria and keep yeast from overgrowing.
You may consider eating yogurt regularly if you frequently get yeast infections or are on antibiotics. While the evidence isn’t solid that yogurt or probiotics are helpful, it’s probably not harmful when done in moderation.
Whether you’ve had a yeast infection before or not, here are some ways to prevent having one in the future.
Wear cotton underwear
Tight clothing, especially clothing that’s made out of manufactured materials, like nylon and polyester, can hold in moisture. Yeast likes to grow in dark, moist places.
Experts recommend wearing cotton underwear or at least underwear with cotton lining in the crotch. Cotton allows more air to flow through the genital area.
Use unscented products
Some products, such as scented tampons or pads, certain soaps, and detergents, can irritate your vagina, causing an imbalance in the natural bacteria.
Use unscented items and gentle cleansers. Avoid using powders and fragrant sprays in the genital area.
Practice good hygiene
Instead, you should clean only the outside areas of your vulva and vagina with gentle soap and water.
It’s best to see a doctor to confirm the presence of a yeast infection, even if you plan to use at-home remedies. Sometimes other infections can be mistaken for yeast infections.
Also, talk with your doctor if your yeast infection doesn’t improve after using home remedies or OTC medications. You may need a prescription medication.
How do you get a yeast infection?
There are many different ways you can develop a yeast infection. Common reasons include:
- sexual intercourse
- pregnancy
- antibiotics
- a weakened immune system
- uncontrolled diabetes
- stress
- hormonal imbalance
What’s the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?
An OTC medication (cream, ointment, or suppository) is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection. Some options require as little as one day for treatment.
Can a yeast infection go away on its own?
Yes. If a yeast infection is mild, it should go away in a few days.