Vaginal yeast infection, which is very common, can be triggered by antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes, a weakened immune system, or tight clothing. It can cause a lot of discomfort, as it can make you feel itchy down there, and leave you with a burning sensation and redness. Your vaginal discharge will probably look more like cottage cheese if you have vaginal yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis. So, getting rid of this infection is a must. Antifungal creams and medicines or probiotics can help in treating vaginal yeast infection. But how long does a yeast infection last and is it necessary to get treatment for it?

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is a common fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of yeast, specifically Candida albicans, in the vagina. "Usually, a woman's vagina has a balanced mix of bacteria and yeast, including Candida, that keep each other in check. However, when this balance is disrupted, the yeast can grow excessively, leading to an infection," says obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Aruna Kumari.

Vaginal yeast infection can leave you feeling itchy. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

What are the causes of vaginal yeast infection?

Vaginal yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, and several factors can disrupt the normal balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. Here are the main causes -

1. Antibiotic use

During a 2008 study published in The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, participants noticed symptoms of vaginal yeast infection four to six weeks after using antibiotics. Antibiotics can kill the good bacteria in the vagina that help control the growth of yeast, and this disruption can lead to an overgrowth of Candida.

2. Hormonal changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels can affect the balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. "These fluctuations usually occur during pregnancy, periods or while taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy," says the expert.

3. Weak immune system

A weak immune system, due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or the use of immunosuppressive drugs like corticosteroids can reduce the body’s ability to control yeast growth. This can lead to an infection down there.

4. Diabetes

A 2018 study published in the American Diabetes Association's Diabetes Care journal found that participants with diabetes have a higher chances of getting infections, including yeast infection, than people without this medical condition. Uncontrolled diabetes means high levels of sugar in the blood as well as vaginal secretions, which creates an environment that promotes yeast growth.

5. Poor hygiene practices

Poor hygiene, such as not changing out of wet clothes or sweaty workout outfits promptly, can contribute to the development of vaginal yeast infection. "Vaginal douching, using soaps with fragrance, or even bubble baths can affect the balance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to a yeast infection down there," says the expert.

How to treat vaginal yeast infection?

Treatment options for vaginal yeast infection are all about aiming to eliminate the overgrowth of Candida and alleviate symptoms like itching and burning. Here are some of the options -

1. Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications

Antifungal medications like clotrimazole, nystatin, and ciclopirox can kill or reduce the growth of fungi, including yeast, as per research published by the National Library Of Medicine in 2022. For more severe or recurrent infections, you may be given these oral antifungal medications. There are topical antifungals like creams, ointments, or suppositories that can be applied directly to the vaginal area.

Probiotics may help treat yeast infection. Image courtesy: Freepik

2. Probiotics

Taking probiotics, especially those containing Lactobacillus strains, may help restore the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina. Plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures may be used as a home remedy, applying it externally to the affected area. During a 2015 study published in the Global Journal Of Health Science, researchers found using yogurt and honey to be effective in relieving symptoms of vaginal candidiasis.

3. Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene, such as keeping the vaginal area clean and dry, wearing breathable cotton underwear, and avoiding tight clothes, can help prevent future infections. "Reducing or eliminating irritants such as scented products and douching can help alleviate symptoms and support healing," says Dr Kumari.

4. Dietary changes

If you have diabetes then managing blood sugar levels through diet and lifestyle changes needs to be done. This will help to reduce the risk of recurrent infections down there.

How long does vaginal yeast infection last?

The duration can vary depending on the severity of the vaginal yeast infection and the type of treatment used.

1. With treatment

"Vaginal yeast infection usually responds well to antifungal medications, and resolves within 3 to 7 days," says the expert. These treatments usually involve topical creams, ointments, or suppositories. Oral antifungal medications can often resolve an infection within a few days, sometimes it clears up within 1 to 3 days after taking a single dose.

2. Without treatment

"In some cases, a mild vaginal yeast infection may clear up on its own in a week or two," says the expert. However, it’s better to seek treatment to alleviate symptoms and stop it from recurring.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my yeast infection is gone?

Itching, burning, redness, swelling, and a thick, white discharge are the common symptoms of vaginal yeast infection. Once you stop noticing these symptoms, it means you don't have a yeast infection.

2. What to do if you are prone to yeast infections?

A doctor may recommend a longer course of antifungal treatment or regular maintenance therapy. Conditions like diabetes or immune system disorders could be contributing to recurrent infections, so testing may be recommended. Also, review lifestyle factors such as diet, hygiene practices, and clothing choices that could be contributing to the infections.

3. Does a yeast infection flush itself out?

While some mild yeast infections may resolve on their own, it is generally recommended to treat the infection with antifungal medications to alleviate symptoms more quickly and prevent chronic infections.

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