Yeast infections: symptoms, quick treatments, and prevention
Yeast infections happen when the fungus Candida grows too much. They’re common, uncomfortable, and usually treatable. This guide tells you what to watch for, what works now, and when you should get medical help.
How to recognize a yeast infection
Symptoms depend on where the infection is: vaginal, oral (thrush), or skin. Vaginal yeast infections usually cause thick white discharge, itching, burning, and pain during sex or peeing. Oral thrush looks like white patches in the mouth that may rub off and leave red areas. Skin infections show red, itchy rashes—often in warm, damp places like under breasts, groin folds, or between toes.
Risk factors include recent antibiotics, high blood sugar (diabetes), pregnancy, steroid or immunosuppressant use, tight or wet clothing, and a weakened immune system. Men can get balanitis (redness and soreness on the penis) after unprotected sex or when hygiene is poor.
Simple treatment options that work
For vaginal yeast infections the most common and effective treatments are azole antifungals. Over-the-counter creams or suppositories with clotrimazole or miconazole usually work for uncomplicated cases. A single 150 mg oral dose of fluconazole is another common option—ask a provider if it's safe for you, especially in pregnancy.
Oral thrush often clears with antifungal mouth rinses or nystatin swish-and-swallow if prescribed. Skin yeast infections respond well to topical antifungal creams containing clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine. For diaper rash with yeast, nystatin cream is often recommended.
If symptoms are mild, try OTC topical products for 1–2 weeks as directed. If you use a single-dose oral prescription, follow the directions and watch for side effects like nausea. Avoid using antifungal creams inside the vagina unless the product says it’s safe for that use.
When to see a doctor? Seek care if symptoms are severe, if you have a fever, if this is your first yeast infection, if infections come back more than 4 times a year, or if you’re pregnant or have diabetes or a weakened immune system. Recurrent cases may need longer treatment or testing to find an underlying cause.
Prevention is simple: keep affected areas dry, wear breathable cotton underwear, change out of sweaty clothes quickly, avoid unnecessary antibiotics, control blood sugar, and avoid scented feminine products that can disturb your natural balance. Some people try probiotics; evidence is mixed but they’re low-risk for most people—check with your provider.
If you want more details on specific drugs or safe online pharmacies, use the site search to read our medication guides and treatment articles. Practical care and timely medical advice usually clear yeast infections fast—don’t let them drag on.
