Vaginal yeast infection

Alternative names:

candidiasis; monilial vaginitis; yeast infection of the vagina

Treatment:

Generally, the first incidence of yeast infection should be treated by your health care provider. After the first infection, if a second infection occurs and is unquestionably a yeast infection, self-treatment may be initiated with over-the-counter vaginal creams such as miconazole or clotrimazole. Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by your gynecologist or primary health care provider.

Cranberry juice and yogurt are two foods that may help prevent the occurrence of yeast infections and aide in their treatment.

Expectations (prognosis):

The symptoms usually disappear completely with adequate treatment.

Complications:

Chronic or recurrent infections may occur. This may be from inadequate treatment or self-reinfection.

Secondary infection may occur. Intense or prolonged scratching may cause the skin of the vulva to become cracked and raw, making it more susceptible to infection.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if this is the first time that vaginal yeast infection symptoms have occurred or if you are unsure if you have a yeast infection. (If you are sure that you have a yeast infection, you can treat the disorder with over-the-counter medications.)

Call your health care provider if symptoms are unresponsive to self-treatment with recommended vaginal creams, or if other symptoms are present.

Picture:
P0065.pctReproductive anatomy, female