Vaginal yeast infection: symptoms, treatment and prevention

Intense itching, a burning feeling, unusual white discharge: a vaginal yeast infection is very common, and many women have at least one in their lifetime. It is benign and responds well to treatment, but it is often uncomfortable, and some women face repeated episodes that weigh on daily life.

This article explains what a vaginal yeast infection is, how to recognise it, how it is treated and which simple habits help prevent it. It also explains when it is wiser to see a doctor rather than treat yourself.

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

A vaginal yeast infection, or candidiasis, is caused by a microscopic fungus, usually from the Candida family. This fungus naturally lives in small amounts in the vagina without causing problems, thanks to the balance of the vaginal flora.

When this balance is disturbed, the fungus multiplies and causes inflammation. It is not caused by poor hygiene, and a yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, even though intercourse can sometimes trigger a flare.

Symptoms

Typical signs are:

• itching of the vulva and vagina, sometimes intense;
• burning, especially when passing urine or during intercourse;
• thick white discharge, often described as looking like cottage cheese, without a strong smell;
• redness and swelling of the vulva.

These symptoms are not specific. Other infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or some sexually transmitted infections, can look similar. Greyish discharge with a strong smell, for example, suggests vaginosis instead, which is treated differently.

Factors that encourage yeast infections

Several situations upset the vaginal flora:

• taking antibiotics, which also destroy good bacteria;
• pregnancy, because of hormonal changes;
• poorly controlled diabetes;
• some hormonal treatments or lowered immunity;
• heat and moisture: tight clothing, synthetic underwear, keeping a wet swimsuit on for a long time;
• washing the intimate area too often or with harsh products, and vaginal douching.

Treatment

Local treatment

Treatment usually relies on an antifungal pessary or vaginal tablet, together with a cream applied to the vulva. It generally brings relief within a few days. It is important to complete the prescribed course, even if symptoms go away sooner.

Oral treatment

In some cases, the doctor may prescribe an antifungal tablet to swallow. This is not suitable in every situation, especially during pregnancy, and requires medical advice.

During pregnancy

Yeast infections are common in pregnancy. They are treated locally with suitable medicines. Do not take any treatment without speaking to your doctor or midwife.

What about the husband?

Treating the partner is not routine. It is offered if he has symptoms himself, or sometimes when infections keep coming back.

When should you see a doctor?

If you have had a yeast infection before and recognise exactly the same signs, a treatment recommended by a health professional may be enough. However, see your doctor if:

• this is the first time you have these symptoms;
• you are pregnant;
• symptoms do not improve after treatment;
• the discharge has a strong smell, an unusual colour, or comes with bleeding;
• you have a fever or lower abdominal pain;
• infections keep coming back, several times a year.

Your doctor can then take a vaginal swab to confirm the diagnosis and identify the organism. If you are unsure how a visit works, our article on the first gynecology consultation will reassure you. For other signs that should prompt a visit, read when to see a gynecologist.

Recurrent yeast infections

When infections come back several times a year, the cause should be looked for: diabetes, a contributing medicine, hygiene habits, or a type of fungus less sensitive to usual treatments. A swab with laboratory analysis helps adapt the treatment. A maintenance treatment over several months may then be offered by the doctor.

Avoid repeated self treatment: it can mask another infection and make diagnosis harder.

Preventing recurrence day to day

A few simple habits help keep the vaginal flora balanced:

• wash the intimate area once a day with a gentle product, without douching;
• dry carefully after washing;
• choose cotton underwear and avoid very tight clothing;
• do not keep a wet swimsuit or damp sports clothes on for long;
• change protection regularly during your period;
• if you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar well controlled.

Seeing a doctor in Fes for a yeast infection or unusual discharge

A yeast infection that will not go away, frequent recurrences or doubt about the cause of your symptoms? A consultation allows the right diagnosis and a suitable treatment, without judgement and in complete discretion.

At Boudra Fertility Center, an IVF center in Fes, Dr Najib Boudra, a gynecologist with more than 30 years of experience, sees you in a gynecology consultation for infections and all intimate health questions. Book an appointment on 05 35 93 08 18.

Frequently asked questions

This article is for information only and does not replace a consultation. For any question about your situation, talk to your doctor.