Vaginal Yeast Infection
(Vaginal Candidiasis; Candida Vulvovaginitis; Yeast Infection; Monilial Vulvovaginitis; Vulvovaginal Candidiasis; VVC)
A vaginal yeast infection is irritation of the vagina and the outside area around it, called the vulva.
A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of fungus that is normally found in small amounts in the vagina.
Factors that may increase your chance of a yeast infection include:
A vaginal yeast infection may cause:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. A swab test of vaginal discharge will taken to confirm the diagnosis.
It is important to see a doctor if you have symptoms. Other health conditions, such as sexually transmitted diseases, have symptoms that are similar to a yeast infection. These can include bacterial vaginosis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea.
Depending on the severity of the infection, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medication. Antifungal medications are available as oral tablets, intravaginal creams, or suppositories.
If you are diagnosed with a yeast infection, follow your doctor's instructions.
To help reduce your chance of getting a yeast infection, take these steps:
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
US Office on Women's Health
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada
Women's Health Matters
Vaginal yeast infections fact sheet. US Office on Women's Health website. Available at: http://www.womensh... . Updated July 16, 2012. Accessed July 26, 2013.
Vulvovaginal candidiasis.EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what . Updated July 18, 2013. Accessed July 26, 2013.
Yeast infections. American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor website. Available at: http://familydocto... . Updated August 2010. Accessed July 26, 2013.
Last reviewed July 2013 by Andrea Chisholm; Brian Randall, MD