Vaginal Yeast Infections

When To Call a Doctor

Use the following guidelines for seeking medical care when you have vaginal symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you:

• Develop lower abdominal pain and a fever higher than 101 ° F (38.3 ° C) along with a vaginal discharge. This may indicate pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• Are pregnant and have symptoms of a vaginal infection or a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Call your health professional for an appointment within 1 week if you:

• Develop an unusual vaginal discharge, and this is the first time you have had an infection that might be a vaginal yeast infection.
• Have unusual vaginal itching.
• Have pain during sex or urination.
• Develop any other symptoms that may indicate a vaginal infection.
• Continue to have symptoms despite home treatment with a nonprescription medication.
• Have symptoms return within 2 months, and you have not been taking antibiotics.

Watchful Waiting

If you are sure your symptoms are caused by a vaginal yeast infection, waiting several days to see if the symptoms clear up on their own is not harmful, especially if you expect your menstrual period within that time. Sometimes a menstrual period will relieve the symptoms of a mild yeast infection. If your symptoms continue, you can use nonprescription medication. If symptoms continue after treatment, see your health professional.

Who To See

Health professionals who can diagnose and treat a vaginal yeast infection include:

• Physician assistants.
• Nurse practitioners.
• Family medicine doctors.
• Internists.
• Gynecologists.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment