Types of yeast infections | Can a yeast infection go away on it’s own? | Home remedies for yeast infections | Prevention | FAQs
While yeast infections can be a common occurrence, they can also be an annoyance, and even worse, embarrassing for women. Although severe infections may require a trip to the doctor’s office and a prescription, there are over-the-counter options and several home remedies for yeast infections. Learn how to identify a yeast infection, when to go to the doctor, how to treat a yeast infection at home, and how to prevent them from recurring.
Types of yeast infections and their symptoms
There are different types of yeast infections, but all happen when an area of the body becomes infected with yeast-like fungi called Candida (about yeast infections). This fungus thrives in moist, warm, folded areas of the skin, such as the groin, under the breast, or the armpits. “Candidiasis is the primary type of fungal infection in the body: It is caused by yeast and can occur in the mouth, gut, throat, and vagina,” explains Niket Sonpal, MD, an internist and gastroenterologist in New York. “If it is not treated correctly with medication, it is likely it can grow out of control and infect your kidneys and heart.”
There are many different types of infections caused by Candida fungus, depending on the location on the body it happens and the type of Candida that is present. While they do have some overlap in symptoms, they can also have different symptoms. The most common Candida infections are:
- Cutaneous Candidiasis happens when the skin on the body is infected. The most typical places the candida will grow are skin between the fingers or toes, nails, armpits, under the breasts, or around the groin. The main symptom is a red, itchy rash.
- Diaper rash in babies can sometimes be caused by a Candida overgrowth, which happens when there is a moist environment from wet diapers helping Candida to thrive. A red rash appears between the creases of the skin and small red dots represent the infected area.
- Oral thrush happens when candidiasis affects the lining of the mouth or throat. Oral thrush presents as white lesions on the insides of the cheeks or on the tongue. Symptoms may also include bad breath, pain while swallowing, abnormalities in taste, and dryness of the mouth.
- Vaginal yeast infections, also called vulvovaginal candidiasis, happen when there is an overgrowth of the Candida in the vagina. Candida albicans is a common fungal strain in vaginal yeast infections. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are irritation, itchiness, inflammation, and a thick, white vaginal discharge.
“Yeast infections are common and happen in three out of four women at least once in their life,” says Dr. Sonpal. Because vaginal yeast infections happen to most women, this article will be specific to the treatment and prevention of vaginal yeast infections only.
Can a yeast infection go away on its own?
“Mild versions of yeast infections have the chance of going away on their own,” explains Dr. Sonpal. “However, it is not recommended to ignore a yeast infection because it is most likely to return if not medically treated.”
While some individuals may choose to try home remedies for yeast infection or over-the-counter treatments, there are certain people who should visit the doctor when they have symptoms of a yeast infection. These patients include:
- Those who have recurring yeast infections (four or more times in a year)
- Pregnant women
- Those who were possibly exposed to a sexually transmitted disease (STD)
- Women who are unsure if their symptoms are from a yeast infection (for example, the first time the woman has symptoms that may indicate a yeast infection)
- Women who do not have success with home remedies or over-the-counter medicines
- Patients with uncontrolled diabetes or a weakened immune system due to certain medications or conditions such as HIV
Home remedies for yeast infections
There are natural ways to try to treat yeast infections. These home remedies for yeast infections are convenient for those wanting to go a more natural route. Do not use any of these treatments internally unless you first check with your healthcare provider.
1. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been found to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the strain of fungi that typically causes yeast infections.
To use this natural remedy, mix 1 spoonful of ACV into a glass of water and drink every morning. .
Never use apple cider vinegar at full strength. Always dilute apple cider vinegar before using it. Do not apply ACV to the vagina, though, as it can cause burning and irritation and may actually increase the risk of infections.
2. Boric acid
Boric acid vaginal suppositories may help remedy yeast infections because of boric acid’s antiseptic properties. While research supports the use of these suppositories, it concludes that this should only be used for recurrent and hard-to-treat yeast infections. Because boric acid is so potent, milder treatments should first be used.
3. Coconut oil
Coconut oil, drawn from the flesh of coconuts, has naturally occurring antifungal properties. A Scientifica study found coconut oil can help inhibit the Candida bacteria that causes yeast infections. However, before applying coconut oil to the vaginal area, consult your healthcare provider.
4. Cranberry juice or pills
Drinking cranberry juice has been found to help with urinary tract infections by preventing the formation of the Candida albicans (the fungus that causes yeast infections). While studies have not shown its ability to help cure Candida albicans in the vagina, some women claim to have results. Cranberry juice and pills are also very high in vitamin C, which can also help prevent infection.
5. Garlic
Garlic and garlic oil are well-known antifungal agents. Studies have even found it to have antifungal activity against Candida albicans. While more traditional approaches may recommend inserting the garlic clove directly into the vagina, a safer and less invasive approach is to simply add more fresh garlic to food and incorporate it into more meals.
6. Probiotics
Probiotics contain live bacteria, such as the bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus, which helps foster a healthy balance of bacterias in the vagina. They may treat or prevent bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections in addition to yeast infections.
You can buy probiotic supplements at your pharmacy or online from a reputable retailer. These oral supplements may take up to 10 days to show results. To decrease the length of time for results, some women have used vaginal supposity probiotics. Eating yogurt (with live and active cultures) is another good way to increase probiotic intake.
However, like many natural remedies, there is a lack of evidence that probiotics cure yeast infections. Researchers are still studying probiotics for yeast infections, but many doctors recommend taking one whenever an antibiotic is prescribed, as yeast infections are a possible side effect of antibiotics.
RELATED: Learn which probiotics are best
7. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil with antifungal properties, that some people claim to cure yeast infections. It works by killing the cell walls and membranes of the yeast. While more studies are currently needed, a 2015 study found that vaginal suppositories containing tea tree oil were able to work as a fungicidal agent, thereby killing the Candida albicans.
Women can purchase vaginal suppositories with tea tree oil online.
8. Vitamin C
Vitamin C (Vitamin C coupons | What is Vitamin C?) boosts the body’s immunity and, with a strengthened immune system, the body is able to fight off a yeast infection better. Add more vitamin C by taking a supplement or eating vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables like oranges and broccoli.
9. Yogurt
Yogurt (with live and active cultures) is a good way to treat yeast infections because of its high probiotic concentrate. As mentioned above, probiotics can help fight off Candida albicans. A 2017 study found that the ingestion of yogurt containing probiotics with Lactobacillus acidophilus helps suppress the growth of yeast. Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt.
Even unsweetened yogurt may have natural sugars, which can worsen yeast infections, so do not put yogurt in the vagina.
Home remedies that don’t treat yeast infections
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a strong antiseptic that has been found to kill yeast. However, although it may initially clear up a yeast infection, it can also kill the good bacteria, putting you at risk for another yeast infection to set in.
Oregano oil
Oregano oil, or origanum oil, has been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans. But, studies have been done in labs, not directly on women, so this is not a proven treatment.
Douching
Over-the-counter douches may combat yeast infections and relieve inflammation and irritation. However, most studies show adverse effects of douching, and few studies give positive outcomes. According to the Office of Women’s Health, doctors recommend that women do not douche because douching can lead to vaginal infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and problems getting pregnant.
How to prevent yeast infections
There are a number of ways to prevent a yeast infection.
- Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use. Antibiotics can kill off the healthy bacteria in the vagina, causing an overgrowth of yeast, thus leading to a yeast infection. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, or COVID-19.
- Wear cotton underwear. Loose-fitting, cotton underwear is most conducive to a healthy microbiome. Avoid garments that are tight and aren’t as breathable, as well as things like sweaty workout wear. These clothes can create a humid, damp area, which is the ideal environment for Candida overgrowth. Because of this, it is also important to change out of damp or sweaty clothes, like workout clothes or swimwear, quickly.
- Avoid hot tubs and scalding hot baths, which foster Candida growth, due to the warm, moist environments.
- Take probiotics or eat yogurt with probiotics since they help balance the vaginal microflora. As well as treatment for yeast infections, probiotics are helpful in the prevention of yeast infections. The best probiotic to take will be with those containing the Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 bacteria.
- Avoid behaviors that may lead to yeast infections, such as poor hygiene. When performing personal hygiene practices, avoid douching, scented vaginal washes or scented lotions, as well as perfumed sanitary products near the genitals, which can throw off the balance of the vagina’s microflora.
- Avoid sugary and processed foods. Yeast grows from sugar, so this can cause a surplus of yeast growth.
Causes of recurring yeast infections
Some women are more susceptible to yeast infections than others and will have recurring yeast infections or chronic yeast infections. There are a few possible reasons someone may deal with recurrent yeast infections:
- Sexual activity. While yeast infections are not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is possible in some cases for partners to pass the Candida to each other. To prevent this, use condoms or dental dams and practice good hygiene after sexual intercourse, such as showering. Avoid having intercourse when one partner has a yeast infection.
- The original yeast infection was not completely treated or the yeast infection is caused by a drug-resistant strain. Symptoms may disappear before the infection is fully treated. When this happens, the yeast infection will come back. There are also strains of yeast that are more drug-resistant, which makes it harder to get rid of than others.
- It is not a yeast infection. There are other infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, or STIs, that may have similar symptoms. This is one of the most important reasons for visiting a doctor, such as a gynecologist or primary care physician, when a yeast infection does not clear up, or when you’re not sure that what you’re dealing with is a yeast infection.
- Those with certain conditions, such as impaired immune systems, pregnancy, or uncontrolled diabetes, are more susceptible to yeast infections.
Although they may help, home remedies for yeast infections are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Results vary. In some cases, if a home remedy does not work, or you want to try something stronger, you can try an over-the-counter medication.
Over-the-counter antifungal medications
Over-the-counter antifungal medications treat yeast infections and are available in creams or suppositories for internal application. Yeast infections can last three days to two weeks, so there are one-day, three-day, or week-long treatments available.
There are also creams that come along with most treatments to help external itching. The most popular brands of antifungal creams to treat vaginal yeast infections are Monistat or Vagistat. These treatments are also available online for those who are uncomfortable buying them in the store.
While OTC treatments may be helpful, you might need a prescription medication, for example, if the OTC medicine did not work, or the infection came back.
What can a doctor prescribe for yeast infections?
A healthcare provider may prescribe Diflucan (Diflucan coupons | Diflucan details), which contains the ingredient fluconazole an oral tablet that will treat fungal vaginal infections, or a prescription antifungal such as terconazole (terconazole coupons | terconazole details), which is inserted vaginally internally at bedtime.
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Frequently asked questions about yeast infections
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about vaginal yeast infections.
What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?
To get rid of a yeast infection quickly, see your doctor—or if you get yeast infections regularly, you can ask your doctor to give you a prescription to keep on file at your pharmacy, and fill it when you need it. Taking a prescription oral antifungal medication like Diflucan (fluconazole) is a quick way to get rid of a yeast infection. It’s a one-dose treatment, but some people may need an additional dose or doses. A prescription or OTC vaginal antifungal cream can also help get rid of yeast infections fast. Some prescribers will recommend using both fluconazole and an antifungal cream.
When to contact a healthcare provider about a yeast infection?
Many women who have had several yeast infections can tell that their symptoms indicate a yeast infection. But those who are experiencing symptoms for the first time should see their healthcare provider for an appropriate diagnosis (and to rule out other causes of symptoms). Other women who should contact their healthcare provider include:
- Those with 4 or more yeast infections per year
- Pregnant women
- Women who may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease
- Women with certain conditions such as diabetes, or who are immunocompromised from certain medications or conditions like HIV or cancer
- Women who have not had success with OTC treatments
What happens if a yeast infection is left untreated?
Start treating a yeast infection as quickly as possible. The “wait and see” approach will likely just make your yeast infection worse, with redness, itching, and inflammation all over the genital region. Open sores and cracked skin could occur, which could turn into a skin infection. Then, when you do treat it, the infection could take much longer than if you had initially treated it. Untreated yeast infections can also pass between sexual partners, cause complications in pregnant women, and could pass to the baby during childbirth.
Women who get yeast infections on a regular basis may benefit from keeping treatment at home, so it is ready to use when needed.
How do I know if it’s a yeast infection or a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
Symptoms of a UTI are more related to urination, and may include urinating more often and/or feeling an urgency to urinate often (even if nothing comes out). A UTI may cause pain and burning when you urinate. You may feel some lower stomach pain or see a bit of blood in the urine.
On the other hand, yeast infection symptoms are likely to cause itching and a thick (“cottage cheese-like”) discharge.
Either infection should be treated. A UTI generally requires antibiotics, while a yeast infection responds to antifungal treatment.
What is the difference between a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Both are vaginal infections and commonly cause vaginal discharge, but they are not the same.
BV is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. Women with BV may have itching or burning in or outside the vagina. However, the discharge caused by BV is thin and milky, and tends to have a fishy odor, especially after sex. BV is not sexually transmitted, but the risk for BV increases when you have new or multiple sex partners, when you douche, or when you do not use a condom. BV can also increase the risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease. It is important to treat BV. Untreated BV can lead to other complications and sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, which can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, and could make it difficult to get pregnant.
Yeast infection is caused by a yeast called Candida. Yeast infection symptoms include itching, burning, and a thick discharge that looks like cottage cheese. There is usually not an odor with a yeast infection.
