Vaginal yeast infection causes, treatments, and prevention

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

In the vagina, bacteria and yeast exist in a natural balance with each other and when that balance is disturbed, an overgrowth of fungus, usually candida albicans, can cause a yeast infection. Itching to the lips and vaginal opening of the vagina with more than usual vaginal discharge may be a sign that you’ve got an overgrowth of yeast. In most cases, an in-person doctor’s appointment is not needed to treat yeast infections, Hey Jane’s team of licensed medical professionals is here to support and treat your concerns virtually.

Symptoms of a yeast infection include:

• Vaginal/vulvar itching
• Burning or tenderness while urinating or with intercourse
• White, cottage-cheese like vaginal discharge, usually odorless
• Redness/rash or swelling of the vulva

Yeast infections are super common; most people with vulvas will get at least one in their lifetime. They’re also not considered a sexually transmitted disease, because the organisms that cause the infection are found naturally in your body. However, it is possible to pass a yeast infection onto a sexual partner and sexual intercourse can worsen or prolong a yeast infection, so it’s best to abstain from sex until yours has cleared up.

Preventing yeast infections

Some things that may increase your risk of a developing yeast infection include antibiotic use, pregnancy, sex with a new partner, diabetes, or an impaired immune system. To reduce your risk, wear loose-fitting clothing, avoid using soaps near your vulva, douching, or taking very-hot baths. Make sure to change your clothes after swimming or working out, as warm and wet environments lend to yeast growth.

Treatment

Hey Jane provides yeast infection treatment online via our compassionate team of providers who prescribe FDA-approved medications to your local pharmacy. Yeast infections are best treated with a prescribed oral antifungal tablet, usually called fluconazole, or an over the counter, short-term course of vaginal cream or suppositories, which are small cone-shaped medications that are inserted directly into the vagina. With oral treatment, you will generally notice an improvement in 24 hours and see total relief in 3 to 7 days.

If your yeast infection symptoms persist after treatment, you develop worsening symptoms, pelvic pain, or a fever during or after treatment, please seek in-person care. 

At-home natural remedies to avoid

While medications are the fastest and most effective treatment for yeast infections, some people prefer to experiment with natural remedies. While these options might help some people feel better, they are not proven to offer the same level of effectiveness as medication. A limited number of studies have been performed on only a few of these remedies. Always consult with your healthcare provider before trying at-home remedies you see online.

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Lifestyle Changes

Adopting certain lifestyle changes or picking up new habits can help you prevent future yeast infections and promote overall vaginal health. Here are some things to consider:

• Avoid scented feminine sprays
• Keep the area dry and warm
• Change out of wet clothing ASAP
• Wear loose-fitting undergarments
• Monitor blood sugar if you’re diabetic

Incorporating these simple lifestyle changes into your routine can significantly reduce the risk of recurrent yeast infections and promote a healthier vagina.