Vaginal Yeast Infection

Introduction

A vaginal yeast infection is usually not a serious illness. To rule out other, more dangerous infections or disorders that could cause or be confused for a vaginal yeast infection, a woman experiencing signs of such an infection should visit her doctor. Any new symptoms should be reported to a doctor by anyone with a compromised immune system. While uncomfortable itching could result from vaginal yeast infections, pain shouldn't be felt. Women who are in agony should speak with their physician. A woman who has any of the following signs of a vaginal yeast infection should also get in touch with her doctor:

• Foul-smelling or yellow vaginal discharge
• Vaginal discharge that lasts for more than a week
• Bloody discharge
• Increased urination
• Stomach or back pain that accompanies vaginal discharge
• Vomiting
• Fever  
• If symptoms diminish but return within two months
• If symptoms are not fully relieved with therapy

Self-Care at Home

For confirmed vaginal yeast infections, over-the-counter medications are available that are usually effective in treating them. The cure rates associated with the nonprescription drugs are about 75-90%. However, women who do not have a vaginal yeast infection account for two thirds of all yeast-infection remedies purchased in stores. By using these medications, these women may increase their likelihood of developing a yeast infection that is resistant to future treatment.

Medications to treat vaginal yeast infections come in a variety of forms, including oral medications, vaginal suppositories, and creams. Suppositories are inserted into the vagina. Cream medications are massaged into the vagina and surrounding tissues. Most candidal infections that are treated at home with over-the-counter or prescription medications clear within a week. People with a weakened immune system should consult their doctor before attempting home-care medications or remedies, as prolonged treatment times may be recommended.

Women who experience increased irritation should immediately discontinue the medication. Pregnant   women should consult their doctor before using any of these medications. Women whose symptoms last more than one week after treatment should consult their doctor to treat a severe infection or rule out other types of infections or underlying causes.

Prevention

Women should abide by the following recommendations to lessen their risk of getting a vaginal yeast infection:

• Dry the area around the vagina, especially after taking a shower.
• Once you've used the restroom, wipe from front to back.
• Wear looser-fitting cotton underwear, which help to keep the vaginal area dry and may reduce irritation.
• Change out of your damp bathing suit after swimming.
• Avoid chemical irritants in deodorant tampons. Do not use douches or feminine hygiene products. Usually, taking regular baths is sufficient to remove vaginal debris.

Outlook

In most cases, over-the-counter drugs can be used to treat vaginal yeast infections. However, many women mistake other conditions for vaginal yeast infections, and these other conditions cannot be treated with medications for yeast infection. When a woman has signs of a yeast infection, she should always see a doctor, especially if she has immune system issues.