How to Treat a Vaginal Yeast Infection

Vaginal yeast infections are a very common annoyance in the lives of women. It is estimated that three fourths of women will have at least one yeast infection in their lifetime. Thankfully, yeast infections in women rarely cause serious health problems and are easily treated.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Identify the symptoms. Vaginal yeast infection symptoms include severe itching, burning, redness, and soreness in the vagina, vulva, and anal areas. These infections can also cause pain during intercourse and a curd-like, white, vaginal discharge.

2. Visit a doctor if you have never had a yeast infection before. There are a few sexually transmitted diseases that have the same symptoms as yeast infections. Women who have never had a yeast infection before may not know how to recognize the symptoms. So it's best to see a doctor to rule out the possibility of something more serious.

3. Get some medicine. Over-the-counter, topical, antifungal creams are widely available at drugstores everywhere. These topical creams are applied in and around the vaginal area to kill the infection. Yeast infections can also be treated with prescription pills.

4. Finish all vaginal yeast infection treatments. Even when the symptoms of your yeast infection are better, don't stop treatments early. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, always follow the instructions listed on the medication container. Treatments for yeast infections can last anywhere from 1 to 14 days.

5. Try not to make your yeast infection worse by wearing tight clothes and undergarments. Your underwear should be made of breathable cotton. The vaginal area should be kept clean and free from excess moisture. Also, avoid using any feminine hygiene products. Instead, use non-medicated, perfume-free soap to cleanse the infected area.

6. See a doctor if your vaginal yeast infection treatments are not effective.