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How long do you have to lay down for after using Monistat?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on July 26, 2022.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Most women use Monistat (miconazole) right before bedtime, and then lay down for the rest of the night while sleeping. For best results, lie down as soon as possible after inserting the product. This can help prevent significant leakage. You may want to wear a deodorant-free pad or panty shield to help protect your clothing as needed. Do not use tampons during Monistat treatment because tampons may remove some of the medicine from the vagina.

Follow the individual instructions found in the product carton that you select.

What is Monistat 1-Day?

The Monistat 1-Day Treatment Combination Pack contains a single ovule vaginal insert and is a one day treatment. It is the highest strength miconazole product and contains 1,200 mg of miconazole in the insert. It is designed to stay in place in your vagina. You still may want to wear a panty liner or pad as needed.

Monistat 1-Day can be used at anytime (day or night) and may be a better option if:

  • You want to start treatment right away
  • You prefer not to treat for multiple days
  • You exercise frequently
  • You are traveling and need the convenience of a one day treatment

Other Monistat products that are used at bedtime only (to prevent leakage) include:

The Monistat combination packs also contain an anti-itch cream (miconazole 2%) which is applied on the skin on the outside of the vagina (vulva). Use the external cream twice a day (in the morning and at bedtime), for up to 7 days, as needed.

Related: Medicines Used to Treat Vaginal Yeast Infections

This is not all the information you need to know about Monistat for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full Monistat product information and Drug Facts and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

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References

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Yes, you can use Monistat during pregnancy. The CDC recommends that only topical preparations are used to treat vaginal yeast infections during pregnancy, and Monistat is available as a vaginal cream in a prefilled applicator or a vaginal suppository with an applicator. Topical preparations expose the developing baby to less medication than oral preparations (such as fluconazole tablets). Continue reading

Fluconazole inhibits the growth of the yeast Candida albicans, which is most commonly responsible for Vaginal yeast infections. This allows our body’s defenses to eliminate the fungus and resolve the discharge. It does this by blocking the effects of an enzyme called lanosterol 14-α-demethylase which is responsible for the formation of ergosterol, an important component of the yeast’s cell wall. This causes toxic substances to build up inside the yeast, reducing its ability to build up and cause an infection. Continue reading

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