Diagnosing Yeast Infections
Your healthcare provider will examine you and use a swab to take a sample from the affected area. A lab test of the sample will show if yeast is the cause of your symptoms.
Treating Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are treated with antifungal drugs, such as clotrimazole or miconazole. There are different forms of these medications, including pills, skin ointments, and creams and tablets used in the vagina.
Antifungal drugs usually work well to treat a vaginal yeast infection. But infections that do not respond to treatment are becoming more common. Taking antifungal drugs when they are not needed can help make yeast resistant to the drugs. For this reason, you should not use antifungal drugs unless you are absolutely sure that you have a yeast infection.
If you are sure that you have a yeast infection, you can buy over-the-counter products to treat it. Be sure to follow the directions for using the product. If you are not sure whether you have a yeast infection or another type of infection or problem, you should see your healthcare provider. You should also see your healthcare provider if you have recurring yeast infections.
Preventing Yeast Infections
There are a few things you can do to help prevent yeast infections. Don't use douches, perfumed vaginal sprays, or other scented products that irritate the vagina. Wear cotton underpants and pantyhose with a cotton crotch to help keep the genital area ventilated. If you have a problem with recurring yeast infections, ask your healthcare provider about additional ways to prevent them.
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