Fastest Way To Get Rid of a Yeast Infection

The fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection is to see your doctor for a Fluconazole prescription. Over-the-counter Monistat (Miconazole) and prevention methods can also be effective.

Yeast infections are common and caused by the overgrowth of yeast in certain areas of the body. Yeast is a fungus normally found on the skin and digestive system, and for women, in the vaginal area. While yeast normally grows in these areas, it can cause an infection if it grows out of control. In men, yeast infections on the penis or scrotum are less common.

Types of Yeast Infections

A yeast infection, known as candidiasis, can occur in different parts of the body and cause various symptoms. The types of yeast infections include:

• Thrush: Affects the mouth and throat, causing white patches, loss of taste, and pain while eating or swallowing.
• Vaginal yeast infection: Affects the vagina, causing itching, discomfort, and potential complications like vaginitis.
• Yeast infections of the skin: Affects the skin, causing itching and a rash.
• Invasive yeast infection: A serious bloodstream infection that can impact major organs and become life-threatening.

Symptoms of a Yeast Infection

Symptoms of a yeast infection vary depending on the affected area and may include:

• Sores
• Rashes
• White patches in the mouth
• Pain when swallowing food
• Shiny, white areas on the penis
• Irritation and itching of the vagina
• A burning feeling during urination or sex
• Swelling and redness of the vulva
• Thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese
• Watery vaginal discharge

Causes of a Yeast Infection

Yeast infections occur due to overgrowth of yeast in their normal locations in the body. Infections can be caused by factors such as:

• A weak immune system
• Pregnancy
• Natural hormone level changes in women during the menstrual cycle
• Antibiotics, cortisone, and other medications

Who Can Get a Yeast Infection?

Some people are more susceptible to yeast infections, including those with diabetes, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems or who are overweight. Additionally, the use of birth control pills can increase the risk of yeast infections.

Diagnosing a Yeast Infection

If you suspect a vaginal yeast infection, it is important to seek a doctor’s opinion for a proper diagnosis. A vaginal exam may be conducted and a sample of vaginal discharge may be taken for examination.

QUESTION

Treatments for a Yeast Infection

Once diagnosed, a doctor may prescribe medication to treat the yeast infection. Antifungal medications are commonly used in the form of topical creams, oral pills, or vaginal suppositories.

Medications

Prescription oral treatment options like Fluconazole can effectively treat most vaginal yeast infections, although it may take up to a week for symptoms to completely resolve. Over-the-counter options like Monistat (Miconazole) are also effective for many vaginal yeast infections.

Home care

Preventing vaginal yeast infections or reinfection can be achieved through various home care practices, including:

• Keeping the vaginal area clean and dry
• Avoiding harsh soaps and perfumed feminine hygiene products
• Avoiding douching
• Wearing loose-fitting clothes and avoiding pantyhose
• Choosing cotton underwear
• Wiping from front to back after using the toilet

Complications and Side Effects of a Yeast Infection

If left untreated, yeast infections can lead to complications. Signs of potential complications include severe redness, swelling, and itching that causes tears or sores, as well as recurring yeast infections four or more times in a year.

Getting Rid of a Yeast Infection While Pregnant

Yeast infections are more common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that create an environment for yeast to grow. Treatment options for pregnant individuals may be more limited, and it is important to confirm with a physician that the symptoms are indeed caused by a yeast infection.

Medication for yeast infections

Over-the-counter medications can help relieve the symptoms of yeast infections during pregnancy. However, oral medications for vaginal yeast infections are not recommended when pregnant. Creams and ointments containing antifungal agents are safe to use during pregnancy and can be applied directly to the affected area.

Home remedies

Dietary changes can aid in recovery and prevention of yeast infections. Limiting processed sugar intake can promote a healthy yeast balance. Additionally, wearing cotton underwear, avoiding scented products, wiping from front to back, and changing out of damp clothes promptly can help prevent reinfection. Probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, can also assist in restoring bacterial balance, but it is important to consult a doctor before making dietary changes during pregnancy.

Subscribe to MedicineNet’s Pregnancy & Newborns Newsletter

By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Vaginal Candidiasis."

Johns Hopkins Medicine: "Yeast Infection."

Mayo Clinic: "Yeast Infection (vaginal)."

National Cancer Institute: "Yeast Infection."

PennState Student Affairs: "Yeast Infection."

University of Michigan: "Vaginal Yeast Infections."

UCDAVIS: "Yeast Infections (vaginal)."

Birth Injury Help Center: "Pregnancy and Yeast Infections."

CDC: "A Diagnostic Test to Detect Different Vaginal Yeast Infection Types."

CDC: "Vaginal Candidiasis."

Family Doctor: "What is a vaginal yeast infection?"

Intermountain Healthcare: "Preventing Vaginal Yeast Infections With Lifestyle and Diet Changes."

Mayo Clinic: "Yeast infection during pregnancy: Over-the-counter treatment ok?"

The Pharmaceutical Journal: Oral Candidiasis: Causes, types, and treatment.

The Pharmaceutical Journal: Oral Candidiasis: Causes, types, and treatment.