Vaginal Yeast Infection

Classic yeast infection symptoms include thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge, intense vulvar itching, burning, and redness — without significant odor. Bacterial vaginosis causes thin, gray-white discharge with a fishy odor. Trichomoniasis causes frothy, yellow-green discharge. Clinical or at-home testing distinguishes between these.

OTC antifungal treatments are appropriate for women with prior confirmed yeast infections experiencing typical symptoms. First-time infections, recurrent episodes, symptoms that don't resolve with OTC treatment, unusual discharge, or uncertainty about the diagnosis warrant clinical evaluation — misdiagnosis is common.

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (4 or more episodes per year) may reflect antibiotic disruption of vaginal flora, uncontrolled diabetes, immunosuppression, hormonal changes, or a less common Candida species (non-albicans) that doesn't respond to standard OTC azole treatment.

Yeast infections are not classified as sexually transmitted infections — though sexual activity can contribute to imbalance. Male partners can rarely develop penile candidiasis from an infected partner. Routine treatment of male partners is not recommended unless symptomatic.

OTC vaginal antifungals (miconazole, clotrimazole) may cause mild local burning or irritation — typically brief. Oral fluconazole is very well tolerated for single-dose treatment; liver function monitoring is recommended for prolonged suppressive regimens used for recurrent disease. Boric acid suppositories (for resistant cases) require prescription guidance. Vaginal Yeast Infection visit What to expect from a Vaginal Yeast Infection visit