Twice weekly maintenance therapy ideal for recurrent yeast infections
Yeast Infection Treatments
A vaginal yeast infection (also called vaginal candidiasis) happens when too many candida yeast cells grow in the vagina. These cells are always there, but factors such as pregnancy, taking antibiotics, having too much stress, or wearing a wet swimsuit for too long can cause an overgrowth of bad bacteria and yeast, making them outgrow the good ones.
Yeast infections typically cause symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling of the vagina and vulva; vaginal pain or a burning sensation; a vaginal rash; and/or a thick, odorless, white, cottage cheese-like discharge.
There are many over-the-counter (OTC) yeast infection treatments. If those don't work for you, or your yeast infections keep returning, talk to your doctor to see if you need a longer course of treatment.
Yeast infections are very common, affecting about 75% of women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) at some point in their lives. The duration, symptoms, and frequency of these infections vary widely from person to person. That's why there are several vaginal yeast infection medications on the market.
There are two main types of yeast infection treatments:
Short course. These antifungal medications range from a one-time pill (fluconazole) that you take orally to 3- to 7-day courses of antifungal creams, tablets, and suppositories. You can buy some of these over the counter, but others have to be prescribed by your doctor.
Long course. If you have very severe symptoms, or yeast infections that keep returning, your doctor may recommend long-course treatment. This may be an antifungal vaginal medication that you use for 2 weeks or two to three doses of a pill that you take by mouth. Your doctor may also recommend boric acid tablets that you insert in your vagina (these pills can be fatal if taken by mouth, so talk to your doctor before using).
You can get antifungal vaginal creams from your doctor or buy them without a prescription at most large drugstores and supermarkets. Some creams you can apply inside the vagina; these usually come with an applicator that helps you measure the right dose. Others are suppositories or tablets you place in your vagina where they dissolve.
Many yeast infection treatments come in 1-day, 3-day, and 7-day strengths. OTC vaginal creams and other antifungal products have the same ingredients to fight a yeast infection as the medication your doctor might prescribe but in less-concentrated doses.
Some creams also cover different strains of yeast. You'll need a prescription for these:
In general, the more concentrated the drug, the shorter the time you have to take it. A vaginal cream that has the number 7 after its name, for instance, would usually be used for 7 days. If the same product name had a number 3 behind it, it would be a more concentrated version of the vaginal cream and you'd only need it for 3 days.
Your doctor may also prescribe a steroid cream for a few days to ease more serious inflammation, redness, and soreness at the opening of the vagina and the surrounding tissue, called the vulva.
OTC yeast infection creams
First, read all package directions carefully. Vaginal creams can be messy and may leak out during the day, so you might want to use them only at bedtime.
When you use a vaginal cream that's oil-based, you may need to use birth control that's not a condom or diaphragm or skip sex while you're using the cream. That's because the oil in the cream could damage the latex in a condom or diaphragm.
Yeast infection suppositories
Medications in vaginal creams (such as clotrimazole and miconazole) may also be available as vaginal tablets or suppositories. You put these into your vagina and let them dissolve. Some brands call them "ovules" because they're oval-shaped. These products often come packaged with a plastic inserter that helps you get the medication to the right place.
One benefit of a suppository is that it's less messy than a vaginal cream and less likely to leak during the day. Another benefit of tablets or suppositories is that you use the doses for fewer days, so you get relief from your symptoms sooner.
Safety tips for OTC yeast infection treatment
Before you use any of these products, you need to know for sure that you have a yeast infection, not something else. See your doctor if you're not sure because using the wrong medicine can make an infection harder to diagnose.
Always follow the package directions exactly. Pay special attention to how often to use the product and how much to use. You need to get those two things right because the dose targets the growth cycle of the yeast.
Complete the entire course of medication, even if your symptoms go away early.
Antifungal medications can change the way some drugs work. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking an antifungal if you are taking other medications.
No matter which yeast infection treatment you try, see your doctor if your symptoms don't clear up after you finish it.
If you have a severe infection, your doctor might prescribe an oral medication. Ibrexafungerp (Brexafemme) is taken twice a day for 1 day and targets the specific fungal cells behind the infection. Fluconazole (Diflucan) is a pill that kills fungus and yeast throughout your body. You would take fluconazole for a week -- every third day (days 1, 4, and 7) -- initially, for three doses total. Then, your doctor might have you take it weekly for 6 months to make sure the yeast infection doesn't come back. Side effects for either include stomach upset, diarrhea, or headaches.
You shouldn't take either of these oral medications to treat yeast infections if you're pregnant.
Another antifungal medicine, oteseconazole (Vivjoa) has been approved for people who have repeated infections and who are not able to get pregnant due to being postmenopausal or permanently infertile. Infertility might be because you've had your uterus or your ovaries and fallopian tubes removed, or you've had your tubes tied (tubal ligation).
Never take any medication or use a nonprescription vaginal cream while you're pregnant unless you've spoken to your doctor about it first.
If you think you may have a yeast infection you should talk to your doctor. Everyone's symptoms are different and yeast infection symptoms can be confused with other vaginal conditions, including skin allergies, sexually transmitted diseases (such as trichomoniasis), bacterial vaginosis, and hormonal changes.
You may have heard of several home remedies to treat yeast infections. One study showed that coconut oil may effectively kill candida, but it wasn't tested in people. Other at-home treatments that you may find include garlic, essential oils, and vinegar, but none are proven to cure the condition.
You may not always be able to prevent a yeast infection. But if you've had one before and you want to avoid them in the future, some of these tips may help:
Most yeast infections clear up within about a week. But the time it hangs around will depend on how severe it is and if you get the right treatment.
Will a yeast infection go away on its own?
If you have a very mild yeast infection, it may go away on its own. But you'll need medication to treat most moderate and severe yeast infections.
Frequent yeast infections
If you have four or more vaginal yeast infections in a year, it could be a condition called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. It's not common, but if you have it, you may need to take an antifungal medication prescribed by your doctor for up to 6 months.
Frequent, repeated yeast infections can also be a sign of a resistant strain or more serious condition, including untreated diabetes. You are also more likely to have recurrent yeast infections when you have hormonal changes, (such as during pregnancy) or when your immune system is weakened because you have HIV or have had an organ transplant.
If you have frequent yeast infections, talk to your doctor who may do some testing to find out why.
Reach out to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about your prescription and how to take your medicine. Let your doctor know if your symptoms don't disappear after you finish taking all your medicine as prescribed. You should also call your doctor if you have any new symptoms because they might be related to other conditions.
Yeast infections can be uncomfortable to have, but antifungal medications can help treat them in as little as one day. Symptoms of a yeast infection can be the same as those of other conditions including skin allergies and sexually transmitted diseases. If you think you have a yeast infection or have ones that keep coming back, talk to your doctor to figure out the best treatment for you.
Vaginal Yeast Infections
The vagina normally contains a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast. The hormone estrogen helps bacteria called lactobacilli to grow. These bacteria kill harmful organisms in the vagina and keep you healthy. But when something happens to tip that balance, a fungus called candida can grow out of control and cause a yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis.
They're itchy and uncomfortable, and no one really likes to talk about them. But vaginal yeast infections are very common. It's estimated that 75% of women will have at least one yeast infection in their lifetime.
Though yeast infections can happen to anyone at any time, certain things make them more likely. Most infections can be cleared up quickly and easily.
Yeast infection vs. Bacterial vaginosis
Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are both vaginal infections called vaginitis. While the conditions may have similar symptoms, they happen for different reasons and need different treatments. You can use an over-the-counter treatment for a yeast infection but will probably need prescription medicine for BV.
You can treat some vaginal infections with over-the-counter medicine, but others require a prescription. Your doctor can help you figure out which condition you have and the right treatment. (Photo Credit: DigitalVision/Getty Images)
Itchiness and discomfort are the main symptoms of a yeast infection, but there are others:
If you think you have a yeast infection, see your doctor before treating yourself. The symptoms of yeast infections are similar to other, more serious conditions, including sexually transmitted infections and bacterial vaginosis (bacterial overgrowth in the vagina). An accurate diagnosis is important so you can get the best treatment.
There are many reasons you could get a yeast infection, including:
Are yeast infections contagious?
You can get a yeast infection both through sex and without sexual contact, but it's not a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Diagnosing a yeast infection involves your doctor or nurse examining your vulva and vagina. They'll also get a sample of discharge by swabbing your vagina, then send the sample to a lab to be examined.
The most common way to treat yeast infections is with over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, or suppositories (with clotrimazole or miconazole). Treatment can take 1 to 7 days. Your doctor may also prescribe an oral antifungal medication, such as fluconazole (Diflucan) or ibrexafungerp (Brexafemme).
If you're pregnant, it's safe to use creams or suppositories, but avoid oral medications.
It's important for you to know that some yeast infection medications weaken condoms or diaphragms. That makes it easier for you to get pregnant or contract a sexually transmitted disease. Be sure to read instructions and warnings before using.
Recurrent yeast infections
If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, you may get yeast infections over and over again. It's a condition called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). If you get yeast infections at least four times a year, your doctor may recommend that you take a weekly fluconazole pill for 6 months to fight them. Oteseconazole (Vivjoa) has been approved for those with recurring problems with infections who do not want to have children (or have more children).
Some studies have shown that eating probiotic yogurt or taking Lactobacillus acidophilus supplements may slow the growth of yeast in the vagina, lowering the risk of infections. More research is needed before a clear connection can be made. Other ways of avoiding a yeast infection include:
Vaginal yeast infections are common, with symptoms including itchiness, redness, swelling, pain during urination or sex, and a thick, white discharge. Treatments range from over-the-counter antifungal creams or oral medications to prescription options. Infections that continue to come back may require long-term treatment. Probiotics like yogurt or supplements containing Lactobacillus acidophilus might help prevent yeast overgrowth, but more research is needed to confirm how well they work.
6 Best Yeast Infection Treatments: OTC And Home Remedies, Prevention Tips, And More
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Home remedies and over-the-counter (OTC) products for yeast infections are readily available. However, there is limited evidence of the effectiveness of some home remedies.
Which over-the-counter treatments are most safe and effective?
"Most topical over-the-counter treatments (azols like monistat and Terazol) are equally effective and use of 1, 3 or 7 day therapy should be based on cost, availability and patient preference" Valinda Nwadike MD, MPH
We considered many prescription and OTC yeast infection treatments before choosing our favorites. All of our top picks have scientific evidence of their effectiveness.
However, do not use these as a substitute for medication. People should contact a doctor immediately if these remedies do not relieve symptoms.
Fluconazole is a generic version of the prescription pill Diflucan, which people can take to treat yeast infections.
People need to take a single pill first. If symptoms do not improve after 2 days, they can take a second pill.
Online pharmacies, such as Wisp, offer quick delivery of fluconazole. Wisp can also provide same-day or rushed prescriptions to a person's local pharmacy.
A one-time purchase costs $65, while a quarterly subscription costs $15 a month.
Read our review of Wisp.
Wisp offers subscriptions for people who regularly have yeast infections. The pharmacy accepts FSA and HSA cards as payment.
This product may be most suitable for people who regularly develop yeast infections or when creams have not worked.
Pros & consMonistat is available in several U.S. Pharmacies and retail stores, including Walmart. It provides treatment options that include 1, 3, and 7 days' worth of doses.
This product comes as internal suppositories and external creams with applicators that help people place the yeast infection treatment in the right area. Some packs include additional topical itch medications to help ease symptoms.
Each applicator contains 200 milligrams (mg) of miconazole nitrate, a medication that treats fungal infections.
This product is most suited to people who currently have a yeast infection and would like to try multiple methods to treat it. However, the 1-day dose can be too potent for some people, adding to the irritation of the vulva. In these cases, the 3- or 7-day options may be more suitable.
Read our review of Monistat.
Pros & consFemiClear's 2-day yeast infection treatment includes two suppositories a person inserts into their vagina and an external anti-itch ointment for symptom relief.
The product contains calendula, tea tree oil, olive extract, beeswax, and olive oil to combat itching and discomfort.
The company recommends using this yeast infection treatment before bed or wearing a panty liner to ensure that it does not leak.
The FDA classes this product as an unapproved homeopathic treatment. It states it has not tested it for safety or efficacy. The FDA writes that it is not aware of scientific research that supports the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies.
This may best suit individuals who currently have a yeast infection and prefer to use organic ingredients. However, it is unsuitable for vegans because it contains beeswax.
Read our review of FemiClear.
Pros & consThe makers of Uqora Promote say the product promotes vaginal health rather than specifically targeting yeast infections.
It contains Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. Acidophilus), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. Rhamnosus), and Lactobacillus reuteri, which the company claims can help balance vaginal bacteria.
Some research suggests Lactobacilli, such as L. Acidophilus and L. Rhamnosus, show promise in preventing vaginal infections.
The company recommends taking this supplement daily with a glass of water.
Uqora Promote may be suitable as a preventive treatment for people who regularly get yeast infections. It is vegan-friendly and gluten-free, meaning it may also suit people following certain diets.
Read our review of Uqora.
Pros & consThe Killer by Love Wellness aims to prevent yeast infections from developing and claims to keep vaginal bacteria healthy.
The capsule contains boric acid, which may be effective in treating recurrent yeast infections that have not responded to antifungal treatments.
Learn more about using boric acid to treat yeast infections.
The brand recommends inserting this vaginal suppository once a day before bed for up to 14 days, as necessary. The brand also recommends the best times to use The Killer might be after sex, after a period, or when a person is experiencing symptoms of a pH imbalance.
The FDA classes this product as an unapproved homeopathic treatment. It states it has not tested it for safety or efficacy. The FDA writes it is not aware of scientific research that supports the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies.
The Killer is suitable for anyone who may be prone to vaginal yeast infections. Love Wellness does not recommend a person to have sexual intercourse while using this product.
Pros & consThis CVS Health treatment comes with seven doses of disposable internal applicators and external cream.
Each applicator contains 100 mg of miconazole nitrate. The manufacturer recommends people insert an applicator before going to bed. People dispose of the applicator immediately after use.
The treatment is available both in-store and online. It may best suit individuals who would prefer a product that works while they sleep. However, a person should not use this if a doctor has not yet given them a diagnosis of a yeast infection.
Pros & consThe table below compares each of the products for price, ingredients, and more.
A yeast infection develops from an overgrowth of Candida, most commonly Candida albicans. Experts estimate around 70% of females will experience a Candida yeast infection at some point, and 8% will have recurrent infections.
The body can usually handle Candida without the fungus causing any problems. However, people with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and HIV, as well as people who have obesity or take antibiotics, are more likely to experience Candida overgrowth.
When the Candida fungus penetrates the mucosal lining of the vagina, it causes inflammation. This inflammation then leads to yeast infection symptoms such as thick discharge, itchiness, and swelling.
Doctors typically recommend OTC antifungal medications to treat a vaginal yeast infection.
Treatments may come as one single dose or a daily dose over several days. A person can read the dosing instructions carefully to ensure they use the correct dosage.
Some of the products in this article are classed as homeopathic treatments. There are no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved homeopathic products. This means any product sold in the United States and marketed as homeopathic is not FDA approved, and the FDA has not tested it for safety or effectiveness.
There are some home remedies a person can try for a yeast infection.
We chose five home remedies that may be effective for yeast infections. Some of the home remedies have made it into our top picks, but for those that did not, we have included easy ways to buy remedies online.
Boric acidThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests boric acid is a useful treatment for vaginal yeast infections. This is especially true for people with more severe yeast infections that are not clearing up and those with recurring infections.
Oregano oilWild oregano oil contains two antifungals: thymol and carvacrol. Although research is inconclusive, a 2021 study tested various essential oils to treat yeast infections. Researchers conclude that oregano oil, specifically Origanum onites, was the most effective in inhibiting these types of infections.
However, people should not ingest essential oils. They should also mix them with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, before applying them to the skin to prevent irritation. Additionally, individuals should not put fresh oregano inside the vagina.
ProbioticsSome probiotic supplements may be beneficial for vaginal health. Probiotics play a key role in maintaining the correct vaginal environment and improving the immune defense.
According to 2018 research, probiotics have a variety of health benefits, including reducing symptoms relating to vaginal yeast infections.
Coconut oilCoconut oil is antifungal, making it a possible treatment for yeast infections.
Older research found coconut oil is effective against Candida albicans, with study authors claiming it is comparable to ketoconazole, an OTC medication. However, limited research confirms coconut oil is safe and effective for yeast infections.
People should only use pure, organic coconut oil on their skin and speak with a doctor if it does not work or causes a reaction.
Apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar may have antimicrobial properties. It is a popular home remedy for yeast infections.
2017 research recognized the popularity of apple cider vinegar as a home remedy but warned that scientific studies are lacking. Researchers wrote that it is most effective at 25% concentration but did not work as well against Candida yeasts as other strains.
A 2018 study found that apple cider vinegar may help reduce Candida populations but is only effective in undiluted solutions, which is unsuitable for the skin.
A person should contact a doctor if they suspect a yeast infection, as symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions. A doctor can properly diagnose and treat the issue.
A person can seek further medical advice if a yeast infection does not clear up with treatment. They may need to adjust their medications to treat any itching and discomfort.
Recurring yeast infectionsAccording to the U.S. Office on Women's Health, yeast infections are usually mild. They cause symptoms such as itchiness, pain, and unusual discharge. Most females develop a yeast infection at some point in their life.
The Office on Women's Health also states that some people develop recurring yeast infections.
Risk factors for recurring yeast infections, or recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC), include having diabetes or a compromised immune system.
However, individuals can develop recurring yeast infections even if they do not have any risk factors.
If a person experiences RVVC, a doctor will likely recommend or prescribe antifungal medications for up to 6 months to help keep the fungus under control.
While there is no definite way to prevent yeast infections, there are several steps people can take to reduce their risk.
Clothing and period productsPeople can opt to wear loose-fitting cotton underwear whenever possible. Cotton is a breathable fabric. It may help prevent the moist environment Candida needs to overgrow.
After swimming or getting clothes wet, such as after a workout, change into dry clothes as soon as possible.
Other ways to help prevent yeast infections are avoiding using panty liners daily and regularly changing tampons and pads.
Personal hygienePeople can avoid vaginal douches and irritating soaps. Many people find that not using scented products around the vagina, such as perfumed soaps or mists, can help reduce yeast infections.
It is important to keep the outer genital area dry and clean. People should always wipe from the front to the back after using the toilet to avoid spreading fecal matter and bacteria into the vagina.
Medication and lifestylePeople can aim to maintain a stable blood sugar level, especially if they have diabetes. People with diabetes are more likely to have yeast infections.
It is also important to only use antibiotics when a doctor prescribes them, and to use them exactly as directed.
Which OTC yeast infection treatment is best?OTC treatment that includes boric acid or miconazole are all effective treatments for yeast infection symptoms.
OTC treatment that includes boric acid or miconazole are all effective treatments for yeast infection symptoms.
What is the 3-day OTC yeast infection treatment?There are several 3-day OTC yeast infection treatments that include miconazole, an ingredient that can help reduce yeast infection symptoms quickly.
There are several 3-day OTC yeast infection treatments that include miconazole, an ingredient that can help reduce yeast infection symptoms quickly.
Is Monistat 1 or Monistat 3 better?According to Monistat, all of its miconazole yeast infection treatments are just as effective as each other, regardless of whether a person buys the 1-, 3-, or 7-day treatment.
According to Monistat, all of its miconazole yeast infection treatments are just as effective as each other, regardless of whether a person buys the 1-, 3-, or 7-day treatment.
Is there a one-day OTC treatment for yeast infections?Yes, several companies offer a one-day OTC treatment for yeast infections, such as Monistat.
Yes, several companies offer a one-day OTC treatment for yeast infections, such as Monistat.
What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?The fastest way to eliminate a yeast infection is to use an antifungal medication on the skin or inside the vagina. People can also get oral pill treatments for yeast infections.
The fastest way to eliminate a yeast infection is to use an antifungal medication on the skin or inside the vagina. People can also get oral pill treatments for yeast infections.
Can I treat myself for a yeast infection?Treating a yeast infection at home may be possible, but home remedies may not be as effective or well-researched as prescription or OTC medication. Yeast infections may also be more likely to come back with home remedies.
Some home remedies include oregano oil and probiotics.
Treating a yeast infection at home may be possible, but home remedies may not be as effective or well-researched as prescription or OTC medication. Yeast infections may also be more likely to come back with home remedies.
Some home remedies include oregano oil and probiotics.
Can a yeast infection go away on its own?A mild yeast infection may go away by itself. However, this is unlikely.
People can only effectively treat fungus overgrowth with prescription antifungals or certain OTC treatments, such as suppositories containing boric acid.
A mild yeast infection may go away by itself. However, this is unlikely.
People can only effectively treat fungus overgrowth with prescription antifungals or certain OTC treatments, such as suppositories containing boric acid.
Yeast infections are often mild. A person can typically treat them using OTC medications. Medications come in different forms and doses, so it is important to follow the instructions on the package.
A person should not self-diagnose a yeast infection. Many symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses and conditions.
Once a doctor diagnoses the infection and a person treats it, they should notice symptom improvement.
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