Vaginal Infection Specialist

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

You may experience mild or severe symptoms with a yeast infection. Common signs include:

• Vaginal itching or irritation
• Burning feelings when urinating
• Thick, whitish, odorless discharge
• Swelling and redness in the vulva

You may also feel pain or burning during intercourse.

What causes a yeast infection?

Your vagina naturally produces a balanced mix of yeast, but certain bacteria can disrupt this balance, causing an overgrowth of yeast in your vagina.

Some medications and health issues also trigger higher levels of yeast. For example, you may get a yeast infection due to:

• Taking antibiotics that kill healthy bacteria in your vagina
• Being pregnant
• Taking birth control pills containing estrogen
• Undergoing hormone therapy that increases estrogen levels

Your yeast infection also might be caused by a weakened immune system or diabetes that isn’t under control.

Can I prevent yeast infections?

You can take the following steps to reduce your chances of developing a yeast infection:

• Avoid tight-fitting underwear and pants
• Choose breathable, cotton underwear
• Remove damp or wet clothes right away
• Take antibiotics only when you have bacterial infections

It’s not always possible to prevent a yeast infection. If you think you have one, your doctor at The Women's Specialists of Fayette recommends the right treatment for you.

How are mild yeast infections treated?

Your practitioner at The Women's Specialists of Fayette usually treats a mild yeast infection with an antifungal prescription medicine. Your medication may be a pill, ointment, or cream.

If you’re pregnant, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter antifungal suppository or other product. These medications usually clear up your yeast infection within a week.

If your symptoms haven’t gone away in a week, contact your doctor at The Women's Specialists of Fayette for a follow-up visit.

How are recurring yeast infections treated?

If your yeast infection is recurrent or severe, your doctor typically prescribes a vaginal cream or suppository containing azole, an antifungal. This should clear up your infection in two weeks or so. Your doctor also may suggest fluconazole oral medication and maintenance therapy to reduce the risk of recurring yeast infections.

If you need treatment for a yeast infection, call The Women's Specialists of Fayette today or schedule a consultation online.