Yeast Infection
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
A yeast infection, or vaginal candidiasis, is a common vaginal infection. A yeast infection is caused by a fungus, or yeast-like germ. Fungi are normally found in your vagina. Too many fungi can cause an infection.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your doctor or gynecologist if:
- You have a fever and chills.
- You develop abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Your discharge is bloody and it is not your monthly period.
- Your signs and symptoms get worse, even after treatment.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Medicines help treat the fungal infection and decrease inflammation. The medicine may be a pill, cream, ointment, or vaginal tablet or suppository.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Keep your vagina healthy:
- Clean your genital area with mild soap and warm water each day. Do not get soap inside your vagina. Gently dry the area after washing. Do not use hot tubs. The heat and moisture from hot tubs can increase your risk for another yeast infection.
- Always wipe from front to back after you use the toilet. This prevents spreading bacteria from your rectal area into your vagina.
- Do not wear tight-fitting clothes or undergarments for long periods of time. Wear cotton underwear during the day. Cotton helps keep your genital area dry and does not hold in warmth or moisture. Do not wear underwear at night.
- Do not douche or use feminine hygiene sprays or bubble bath. Do not use pads or tampons that are scented, or colored or perfumed toilet paper.
- Do not have sex until your symptoms go away. Have your partner wear a condom until you complete your course of medication.
- Ask your healthcare provider about birth control options if necessary. Condoms have latex and diaphragms have gel that kills sperm. Both of these may irritate your genital area.
Follow up with your doctor or gynecologist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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