Title: Yeast Infections | American Pregnancy Association
Headings: Yeast Infections
Yeast Infections
What causes a yeast infection?
What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?
Complicated yeast infection
What else could I be experiencing?
How do I know for sure if I have a yeast infection?
How are yeast infections treated?
How can I prevent yeast infections from occurring?
When should I contact my doctor?

Content: If you are experiencing symptoms similar to a yeast infection, but a physician has ruled out this diagnosis, you may have one of the following: A sexually transmitted disease (STD) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis
A vaginal infection called bacterial vaginosis
How do I know for sure if I have a yeast infection? Your health care provider will use a simple, painless swab to remove the discharge or vaginal secretions and examine the sample through a microscope in the office. Usually, upon a simple examination of the vagina, a physician can diagnose a yeast infection. In rare cases, the culture may be sent to a lab. How are yeast infections treated? A yeast infection can be treated by creams that can be applied vaginally. Monistat, Gyne-Lotrimin, or prescription Terazol or Vagistat provide immediate relief of burning on the vulva and should completely clear up the infection in a week. Medications are taken orally, such as prescription Diflucan, Sporanox, Nystatin, and Nizoral, clear up the infection within a few days but provide slower relief of burning and itching. Ask your doctor about using cream topically to relieve itching and burning as well as a one-dose oral medication to clear it up as quickly as possible.