Yeast Infection – Diagnosis and Treatment
Yeast infections affect people of all ages, but you’ll mostly hear about them in women. When a certain fungus—usually candida—starts growing too much, it throws off the body’s natural balance.
A lot of individuals notice itching, burning, or unusual changes in discharge.
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers usually start by asking about any past issues—vaginitis, thrush, skin infections, or STIs. They’ll also want to hear about current symptoms like itching, irritation, or changes in vaginal discharge.
Then comes the pelvic exam. The provider checks the vulva and vagina for redness, swelling, or other signs tied to things like vulvovaginal or cutaneous candidiasis. They use a speculum to get a better look at the vaginal area and cervix.
Providers often collect a sample of vaginal fluid for testing. Lab tests, like a fungal culture or potassium hydroxide (KOH) prep, help figure out if Candida albicans or another strain is behind the problem.
If a yeast infection keeps coming back, your provider might also check for underlying health issues like diabetes, hormone changes, or a weakened immune system.
In some cases—especially when symptoms don’t match the usual pattern—microscopy or molecular diagnostic tests may be used to rule out other infections like bacterial vaginosis or STIs.
This info guides which treatment will work best for vaginal yeast infections or esophageal candidiasis.
Ways to Manage Yeast Infections
Doctors pick yeast infection treatments based on how bad the symptoms are and how often they show up. For mild or moderate cases, a short round of antifungal therapy usually does the trick.
Common Antifungal Treatments:
| Medication Name | Form | How to Use | Available Over the Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miconazole | Cream, suppository | Insert into vagina for 3-7 days | Yes |
| Clotrimazole | Cream, tablet, suppository | Insert into vagina for 3-7 days | Yes |
| Terconazole | Cream, suppository | Insert into vagina for 3-7 days | Prescription |
| Nystatin | Cream, tablet | Insert into vagina | Prescription |
| Ketoconazole | Cream, tablet | Insert or apply as directed | Prescription |
| Econazole | Cream, suppository | Insert as directed | Prescription |
Most people use these antifungal products at home. You’ll find them as creams, ointments, tablets, or vaginal suppositories. Some are on drugstore shelves, but others require a prescription.
If you need oral therapy, fluconazole is a popular pick. Sometimes it’s just one dose, but if things are rough, doctors might suggest two doses a few days apart. Doctors don’t usually recommend oral antifungals during pregnancy.
For repeated or severe infections:
- Extended Vaginal Treatment: Use antifungal medicine daily for up to two weeks, then switch to weekly for about six months.
- Multiple Oral Doses: Take several doses of oral antifungal medication. Pregnant women should avoid this approach.
- Boric Acid Capsules: Insert into the vagina if nothing else works. Never swallow these, and don’t use them if you’re pregnant.
Doctors avoid corticosteroids for yeast infections since they can make things worse. Antibiotics can mess with the vagina’s natural balance and might actually trigger a yeast infection, so use them carefully.
If symptoms stick around or keep coming back within two months, definitely reach out to a healthcare professional.
Other Therapy Options
Some folks try natural therapies, though science hasn’t proven they cure yeast infections. People sometimes eat yogurt, take probiotics, or wear cotton underwear for comfort.
Tip: Check with your healthcare provider before you try these. It’s always safer to ask.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps You Can Take Before Seeing the Doctor
Skip tampons or douching for at least a day before your appointment. This helps your provider get the best test results if they need to run any.
Bring a written list with you that covers:
- Your main symptoms, when they started, and if they’ve changed.
- Any other health issues like diabetes, HIV, or anything that weakens your immune system.
- All the meds, vitamins, and supplements you’re taking—include the dose and how often.
- Key questions you want to ask. For example:
- What should I do if the infection comes back?
- How can I lower my risk for yeast infections in the future?
- Are there any warning signs that mean I should call or come back right away?
If you have a condition that affects your immune system, like HIV or diabetes, mention it. This can change your treatment plan and what’s safest for you.
Tip Table:
| Preparation Step | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Don’t use tampons/douche | Prevents altered test results |
| List medical concerns | Helps the provider tailor your care |
| Note medicines | Prevents drug interactions |
| Ask about prevention | Helps avoid future infections |
What Your Healthcare Provider Will Talk About
Your provider will probably ask about your health and symptoms. Possible questions include:
- Any unusual vaginal discharge or odor?
- Have you had a yeast or other vaginal infection before?
- Tried any over-the-counter treatments?
- Recently taken antibiotics?
- Are you sexually active, or pregnant?
They might ask if you use scented soaps, bubble baths, or sprays in your genital area, since those can irritate things.
If you have diabetes, HIV, or immune issues, be ready to talk about how you manage them. This helps the provider look for other causes and pick the safest treatment.
Some people who know their symptoms and have had yeast infections before might get a prescription just over the phone. If that’s not your situation, expect a pelvic exam.
The provider might check your external genitals and take a sample for testing. Don’t hesitate to ask questions—bring them up right away if you’re unsure about anything.
