Table of Contents
- Symptoms
- Causes
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- How Do You Know When a Yeast Infection Is Healing?
- Can a Yeast Infection Linger After Treatment?
Symptoms
Yeast infections can cause a variety of symptoms, including itching and burning in the vagina, an uncomfortable sensation while urinating, and a milky white discharge. Other symptoms include swelling and redness of the labia, pain during intercourse, and abdominal discomfort. If a yeast infection is left untreated, the symptoms may worsen over time.
Causes
Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a type of fungus called Candida albicans. This fungus is normally found in small amounts in the vagina and is kept in balance by other bacteria. When the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina is thrown off, an infection can occur.
Diagnosis
A doctor can diagnose a yeast infection by taking a sample of the discharge from the vagina and examining it under a microscope. They may also take a swab of the affected area to test for the presence of Candida albicans.
In some cases, a urine test may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment usually involves the use of antifungal medications, which can be in the form of creams, ointments, or tablets. The medication may be applied directly to the affected area or taken orally. Your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter medications, such as lactic acid bacillus or probiotics, to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.
How Do You Know When a Yeast Infection Is Healing?
The most common way to tell if a yeast infection is healing is to monitor your symptoms. If the itching and burning have subsided and the discharge has decreased, it is likely that the infection is healing. It is also important to keep taking the medication as prescribed and to finish all of the medication, even if the symptoms have disappeared.
Can a Yeast Infection Linger After Treatment?
In some cases, a yeast infection may linger even after treatment. This can be due to a number of factors, including not taking all of the medication as prescribed, using medications that are too weak to effectively treat the infection, or not treating other underlying conditions that may be causing the infection.
If a yeast infection does not seem to be clearing up despite treatment, it is important to speak to your doctor for further advice and treatment.