Yeast Treatments

The source of the problem—fungal yeast cells called Candida or Monilia—are found naturally in the delicate ecosystem of the vagina. But hormonal changes, antibiotic use, illness, or other factors occasionally upset that ecosystem, causing yeast cells to grow more rapidly than normal. The result is a yeast infection, also called candidiasis or moniliasis.

A yeast infection itches, burns, and may redden the vulva. It can lead to a thick, white vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese and smells like baking bread. The discomfort can be maddening. Fortunately, most over-the-counter yeast treatments provide straightforward and effective relief.

How to choose a yeast treatment

Since a yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of fungus, treatment requires the use of antifungal creams or suppositories inserted directly into the vagina. Different brands use different fungal fighters—ingredients with names like butoconazole, clotrimazole, and miconazole—but most products are equally effective.

In addition to an antifungal, you may choose to use an anti-itch cream. Applied outside the vagina to reduce inflammation, these symptom-relieving creams are often sold in the same package with antifungal treatments.

If this is your first yeast infection, consult your doctor before using any over-the-counter treatments. He or she can recommend the most appropriate medication based on your medical history: either a one-, three-, or seven-day vaginal treatment, or a prescribed pill. With your doctor's permission, you can treat an occasional recurrence using the same over-the-counter treatment that worked for your first yeast infection.

Treatments are for one, three, or seven days. Some brands like Gyne-Lotrimin and Monistat make a variety of products that you can take for different lengths of time.

• One-day treatments like Monistat 1 are the most convenient, but they don't provide faster relief than other products. Regardless of the product you choose, it takes up to a week to cure a yeast infection. Some one-day treatments may not come with a cream to soothe external discomfort—so if you want one, you need to buy it separately.
• Three-day treatments like Femstat 3 and Mycelex balance convenience with effective relief. "Combination packs" contain both vaginal medication to treat the infection and a tube of external cream to relieve symptoms.
• Seven-day treatments ensure that medication is applied to the infected area throughout the healing process, so many doctors prefer them.

How to use a yeast treatment

Start your antifungal treatment before going to bed.

• Clean the entire vagina and vulva with a mild soap before applying the treatment.
• To apply, fill the applicator with the cream as directed. (Some products come with prefilled applicators for ease of use and proper dosing.)
• Stand with your legs apart and your knees slightly bent. Or lie down, facing up, with your legs apart and knees slightly bent.
• Place the applicator in the vagina as far up as it will go without causing irritation. Then press the plunger to insert the product.
• Wear an unscented pantiliner to catch leaks from the vagina.
• When you go to sleep, lie face up, not on your side or belly. This will help prevent leakage.