A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection that irritates the vulva. Yeast is normally present in the vagina, but certain things can cause it to overgrow , which results in an infection. Yeast infections are very common, and according to The National Women's Health and Information Center, this type of infection affects about 75 percent of women at least once in their life. Of this percentage, over half get at least two infections.
Step 1
See a gynecologist as soon as you begin to experience symptoms of a yeast infection. Yeast infection symptoms are burning, redness, vaginal swelling, pain during urination, pain during sex, soreness, vaginal rash and white discharge that looks like cottage cheese.
Step 2
Avoid things that may increase the risk of developing a yeast infection, such as stress, lack of sleep and eating loads of sugary foods.
Step 3
Purchase an over-the-counter product to get rid of the yeast infection. There are several brands of creams, ointments and suppository creams used to treat yeast infections available at most pharmacies and grocery stores.
Step 4
Ask your physician to prescribe a medication if over-the-counter products don't work. Your doctor may prescribe anti-fungal creams or a dose of oral fluconazole for treatment.
Step 5
Change tampons and pads frequently. Leaving tampons or pads in place too long may cause yeast infections or even bacterial infections.
Tips and Warnings
- Although it can be treatable by non-prescription products, a yeast infection should never be self-diagnosed. Symptoms of a yeast infection may be the same as symptoms of certain sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.
- Using anti-fungal medications without the presence of a yeast infection can increase the risk of these medications not working when you have a yeast infection in the future. Avoid tight fitting clothes, wetsuits, nylon stockings, bubble bath and scented feminine hygiene products.
