Vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is a common fungal infection that causes itchiness, swelling and irritation of the vagina and the tissues at the vaginal opening (vulva). Studies indicate that about 75% of women will have a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime.

The vagina contains a healthy and balanced number of bacteria and yeast, which help to eliminate harmful organisms in the vagina. However, when this balance is disturbed, a fungus called candida can grow in large numbers causing a yeast infection.

Symptoms

Irritation, swelling, redness, and itching in the vagina
Unusual thick odorless vaginal discharge
Pain, especially during intercourse
Burning sensation during urination

If these symptoms are left without treatment for long, they might cause severe complications and take longer to heal.

Treatments

Simple infections

For simple infections, the doctor will prescribe an antifungal cream, ointment, tablet or suppository to be used as a 1-to-3-day regimen. These medications can be in either a prescription or over the counter.

Common medications
Butoconazole (Ginazole)
Clotrimazole (Lotrimin)
Miconazole (Monistat)
Terconazole (Terazol)
Fluconazole (Diflucan)

Women with simple yeast infections should follow up with their doctors to make sure the medicine works, and will also need a follow-up visit if the symptoms return within two months

Complex infections

The doctor will most likely treat yeast infection as a severe or complicated condition in the following cases:

If the patient has severe redness, swelling and itching that causes rupture of the vaginal tissues
If the yeast infection reoccurs more than 4 times a year
If the patient has a yeast infection caused by a different kind of fungus other than the candida albicans.
If the patient has uncontrolled diabetes or a weak immune system
If the patient is an HIV positive

Treatment for severe or complex yeast infection include:

14-day vaginal treatment cream, ointment, tablet, or vaginal suppository
Long-term prescription of fluconazole taken once a week for 6 weeks or long-term use of a topical antifungal medication

If the infection reoccurs, the patient may want to know if their sexual partner has a yeast infection and make sure to use protection methods.

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