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Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment

A yeast infection that occurs in the vaginal area is caused by the presence of Candida albicans. Candida albicans is naturally found in small amounts in different areas of the body, including the mouth, intestines and vagina. When the Candida albicans grows in excess, a yeast infection develops. Vaginal yeast infection treatment is available over-the-counter or through prescription.

  1. Symptoms

    • It is common for women to misdiagnose a vaginal yeast infection. Symptoms of a yeast infection in the vagina are vaginal discharge, inflammation, discomfort during sex or urination, itching and redness. The discharge may have a watery and white consistence or appear chunkier and white. The symptoms can also be caused by other vaginal infections and gynecological conditions, such as HPV and bacterial vaginosis.

    Diagnosis

    • If you never had a yeast infection before, you should make an appointment with your doctor in order to confirm the diagnosis. Most likely, your gynecologist will give you a pelvic exam in order to check for the presence of yeast. Your doctor can take a sample of the discharge with a cotton swab and have it sent to the lab to confirm diagnosis of the yeast infection.

    Prescription Medicines

    • Oral medications can be prescribed by your doctor as a way to treat a yeast infection in the vagina. Difulcan is the most commonly prescribed with the generic form called fluconazole. Nizoral, another oral medication for a yeast infection is available as the generic ketoconazole. Vaginal boric acid tablets can also be prescribed by a doctor for treatment.

    Over-the-counter Remedies

    • There are several brands of yeast infection medications available at retailers and local pharmacies. Miconazole is the active ingredient found in over-the-counter creams, such as Monistat. Femstat, another popular maker of yeast infection medications, uses butoconazole as its active ingredient.

    Warning

    • Pregnant women should not take an oral medication in order to treat a yeast infection. A doctor will instead recommend a topical ointment or suppository. When you have recurrent yeast infections, lifestyle changes will likely be advised. You will be told not to douche, wear nylon underwear or use scented tampons. You should also steer clear of tight pants and get out of a wet bathing suit as soon as you are done swimming.

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