A vaginal yeast infection is a common fungal infection that affects the vagina and the skin around the vaginal opening. It is usually caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast that can normally live in the body without causing problems. When the balance changes, the yeast can multiply and cause irritation. The medical name for this condition is vulvovaginal candidiasis, or VVC. (1)
Yeast infections are common, but they should not be confused with every type of vaginal infection. Bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, skin conditions, and other causes can produce similar symptoms. Getting the right diagnosis is important because the treatments are different. (2)
What Is a Yeast Infection?
A yeast infection occurs when Candida grows excessively in the vaginal area. Candida can be present without causing symptoms, so simply finding yeast does not always mean an infection needs treatment. Symptoms and examination findings help determine whether treatment is appropriate. (3)
The most common cause is Candida albicans. Other species can also cause infection, particularly in people who experience repeated episodes. Some of these other species can be harder to treat with commonly used antifungal medicines. (4)
Common Symptoms
The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can range from mild to severe. Itching and irritation around the vagina and vulva are among the most common complaints.
Other symptoms can include:
- Intense itching
- Burning
- Redness
- Swelling
- Vaginal soreness
- Pain during sex
- Burning during urination
- Thick, white vaginal discharge
- Small cracks or sores in severe cases
The discharge is often described as thick and white, sometimes resembling cottage cheese. It typically does not have a strong odor. (5)
What Does a Yeast Infection Look Like?
The skin around the vaginal opening may become red, swollen, or irritated. In more severe cases, small cracks can develop because the skin becomes inflamed and fragile.
The vagina itself may also be irritated. However, appearance alone cannot reliably confirm a yeast infection. A healthcare professional may need to examine the area and test a sample of vaginal fluid when the diagnosis is uncertain. (6)
What Causes a Yeast Infection?
A yeast infection usually develops when the normal balance of microorganisms in the vaginal area changes. Candida may then multiply more than usual.
Several factors can contribute to this change. Antibiotic use, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, and a weakened immune system are recognized risk factors. (7)
Factors that may increase the risk include:
- Recent antibiotic use
- Pregnancy
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- A weakened immune system
- Certain hormonal changes
- Some hormone-containing contraceptives
- Previous yeast infections
- Certain medicines
Having one of these factors does not guarantee that an infection will occur.
Antibiotics and Yeast Infections
Antibiotics are designed to kill certain bacteria. They can also reduce some of the bacteria that normally help maintain the vaginal environment.
This change can allow Candida to grow more easily in some people. However, not everyone who takes antibiotics will develop a yeast infection. {8)
If you repeatedly develop yeast infections after taking antibiotics, mention the pattern to your healthcare professional. They can determine whether the symptoms are actually caused by Candida and discuss appropriate treatment.
Pregnancy and Yeast Infections
Pregnancy can increase the likelihood of vaginal yeast infections. Hormonal changes can affect the vaginal environment and make yeast overgrowth more likely.
Pregnant people should speak with a healthcare professional before treating a suspected yeast infection. Treatment choices can differ during pregnancy. (9)
Do not assume that an over-the-counter treatment is automatically appropriate during pregnancy.
Diabetes and Yeast Infections
High blood sugar can increase the risk of yeast infections. People with poorly controlled diabetes may be more likely to experience repeated or difficult-to-treat infections.
Repeated yeast infections can sometimes be a reason for a healthcare professional to consider whether diabetes or another underlying factor may be contributing. (10)
Managing blood sugar is important for overall health and may also help reduce infection risk.
Is a Yeast Infection an STI?
A vaginal yeast infection is generally not considered a sexually transmitted infection. It usually results from an overgrowth of Candida that is already present in the body. (11)
Sexual activity can sometimes be associated with symptoms or irritation, but routine treatment of sexual partners is not recommended for uncomplicated vaginal candidiasis. If a male partner develops symptoms such as redness or irritation of the penis, medical evaluation may be appropriate. (12)
Yeast Infection vs. Bacterial Vaginosis
Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis can produce vaginal discomfort and discharge. They are caused by different changes in the vaginal environment and require different treatments.
| Feature | Yeast infection | Bacterial vaginosis |
|---|---|---|
| Main cause | Overgrowth of Candida | Overgrowth of certain bacteria |
| Itching | Common | Less typical |
| Discharge | Often thick and white | Often thin and gray or white |
| Strong odor | Usually absent | Often fishy |
| Burning | Common | Can occur |
| Treatment | Antifungal medicine | Antibiotic medicine |
Symptoms alone do not always provide a reliable diagnosis. If you are unsure what is causing your symptoms, testing can prevent unnecessary treatment. (13)
Yeast Infection vs. STI
Some sexually transmitted infections can cause discharge, burning, itching, pelvic discomfort, or pain with urination. These symptoms can overlap with yeast infections.
For this reason, a person who has new symptoms after sexual exposure should consider medical evaluation and appropriate testing. Treating yourself for yeast when another infection is present can delay the correct treatment.
How Is a Yeast Infection Diagnosed?
A healthcare professional may diagnose a yeast infection based on symptoms and an examination. In some cases, a sample of vaginal discharge is examined under a microscope.
A vaginal culture or another laboratory test may be useful when symptoms are persistent, recurrent, severe, or unusual. Testing can also identify Candida species that may respond differently to treatment. (14)
Diagnosis may involve:
- Medical history
- Discussion of symptoms
- Physical examination
- Examination of vaginal discharge
- Microscopy
- Culture or other laboratory testing when needed
Testing is especially important when standard treatment does not work.
Can You Diagnose a Yeast Infection Yourself?
It can be difficult to diagnose a yeast infection based only on symptoms. Even people who have had a yeast infection before may mistake another vaginal condition for the same problem.
The CDC advises clinical evaluation for people whose symptoms continue after over-the-counter treatment or return soon after treatment. (15)
If this is your first suspected yeast infection, professional evaluation is particularly useful.
Treatment for Yeast Infections
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. Uncomplicated infections can often be treated effectively with antifungal medicines.
Common treatments include vaginal creams or suppositories and, in appropriate cases, oral antifungal medicine. The choice depends on the person’s health, pregnancy status, medications, symptoms, and type of Candida involved. (16)
Common Antifungal Treatments
Antifungal medicines work against yeast. Common vaginal treatments include medicines such as clotrimazole, miconazole, and terconazole.
Fluconazole is an oral antifungal medicine commonly used for uncomplicated vaginal candidiasis in appropriate patients. However, oral treatment is not suitable for everyone, particularly during pregnancy. (17)
Your healthcare professional or pharmacist can help determine which option is appropriate.
Vaginal Creams and Suppositories
Vaginal antifungal medicines are inserted into the vagina according to the product instructions. Treatment may last one day, several days, or longer depending on the medicine.
These treatments can be effective for uncomplicated yeast infections. Some vaginal creams and suppositories are oil-based and can weaken latex condoms or diaphragms during treatment. (18)
Read the product information carefully before using these medicines.
Oral Antifungal Medicine
Fluconazole is an oral medicine used for some uncomplicated yeast infections. It can be convenient because certain regimens require only one dose.
However, oral antifungal medicines can interact with other medicines and are not appropriate for everyone. They should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically directed by a qualified healthcare professional. (19)
Treatment During Pregnancy
Treatment during pregnancy requires special consideration. The CDC recommends topical azole therapy for seven days for pregnant women with vulvovaginal candidiasis and advises against oral fluconazole during pregnancy. (20)
This is an important reason not to self-treat pregnancy-related symptoms without medical advice. Vaginal symptoms during pregnancy can have causes other than yeast.
Contact your prenatal or healthcare provider for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Severe Yeast Infections
Some infections cause extensive redness, swelling, cracks, or severe discomfort. These cases may respond less well to very short treatment courses.
The CDC recommends longer treatment for severe vulvovaginal candidiasis. A healthcare professional may recommend seven to fourteen days of topical treatment or a specific oral regimen when appropriate. (21)
Severe symptoms are a reason to seek professional care rather than repeatedly trying short over-the-counter treatments.
Recurrent Yeast Infections
Some people develop yeast infections repeatedly. The CDC defines recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis as three or more symptomatic episodes within one year. (22)
Recurrent infections can have several possible causes. Antibiotic use, diabetes, immune problems, and different Candida species may contribute, but many people have no obvious underlying cause.
Repeated episodes should be evaluated rather than treated indefinitely without testing.
What Causes Recurrent Infections?
Recurrent infections may occur because of repeated exposure to risk factors or because the infection is difficult to eliminate. In some cases, a different Candida species is responsible.
The CDC notes that non-albicans Candida species account for a portion of recurrent infections and may respond less well to standard azole medicines. (23)
Laboratory testing can help identify the organism when infections continue to return.
Antifungal Resistance
Antifungal resistance is becoming an important concern in vaginal candidiasis. Some Candida strains may become less responsive to commonly used medicines.
Research has documented increasing concern about resistance to azole antifungal medicines in some settings. This is one reason persistent infections should be tested rather than repeatedly treated with the same medicine without evaluation. (24)
If treatment repeatedly fails, ask a healthcare professional about testing for the specific Candida species and possible drug resistance.
Newer Treatment Options
Research continues to investigate newer antifungal treatments for vulvovaginal candidiasis. Ibrexafungerp is one newer antifungal medicine that has been studied in randomized clinical trials.
A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis found that ibrexafungerp showed benefits for treating vulvovaginal candidiasis in the trials reviewed. Newer medicines may provide additional options, particularly as antifungal resistance becomes a concern. (25)
Treatment decisions should still be based on individual circumstances and current clinical guidance.
Can Probiotics Treat a Yeast Infection?
Probiotics are often marketed for vaginal health. However, evidence does not currently support probiotics as a replacement for antifungal treatment for an active vaginal yeast infection.
The CDC states that there is no substantial evidence supporting probiotics or homeopathic products for treating vulvovaginal candidiasis. (26)
Research continues to examine the relationship between vaginal microorganisms and Candida. Future treatments may involve microbiome-based approaches, but these should not be confused with established antifungal therapy.
What About Yogurt?
Yogurt is sometimes promoted as a home treatment for yeast infections. Eating yogurt can be part of a healthy diet, but it should not be considered a proven treatment for an active vaginal yeast infection.
Putting yogurt or other foods inside the vagina is not recommended. Such practices can irritate the tissue or interfere with the normal vaginal environment.
For an active infection, use a treatment that has been evaluated for vaginal candidiasis.
Can Diet Prevent Yeast Infections?
There is no well-established “yeast infection diet” that prevents or cures vaginal candidiasis. Restrictive diets promoted online often make claims that are stronger than the available evidence.
A balanced diet supports overall health. If you have diabetes, keeping blood sugar under good control is particularly important because uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk of yeast infections.
There is no need to eliminate entire food groups simply because you have experienced a yeast infection.
Personal Hygiene
Gentle hygiene is usually better than aggressive cleaning. The vagina has its own natural environment and does not need to be washed internally.
Avoid vaginal douching because it can disturb the normal balance of microorganisms. Washing the external genital area gently with water or a mild, unscented product is generally sufficient.
Helpful hygiene habits include:
- Avoid douching.
- Avoid heavily scented vaginal products.
- Keep the external area clean and dry.
- Change out of wet clothing promptly.
- Wear breathable underwear.
- Avoid products that irritate your skin.
- Do not insert unapproved home remedies into the vagina.
Clothing and Moisture
Warm, moist environments can encourage fungal growth. Wearing wet workout clothes or swimsuits for long periods may increase irritation in some people.
Changing into dry clothing after exercise or swimming is a simple habit. Breathable underwear may also reduce moisture and discomfort.
These habits do not guarantee prevention, but they can support comfortable skin care.
Can Sexual Activity Cause a Yeast Infection?
A yeast infection is not usually considered a sexually transmitted infection. However, sexual activity can sometimes contribute to irritation or symptoms.
Some people notice symptoms after intercourse, but this does not necessarily mean that a partner transmitted the infection. If symptoms repeatedly occur after sex, discuss the pattern with a healthcare professional.
New or unexplained symptoms after sexual contact may require testing for other infections.
Can Men Get Yeast Infections?
Yes. Men can develop Candida infections of the penis, particularly around the head of the penis. Symptoms can include redness, itching, irritation, or discomfort.
Male partners of women with uncomplicated vaginal candidiasis do not normally need treatment unless they have symptoms. (27)
A healthcare professional can determine whether symptoms are caused by yeast or another condition.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Medical evaluation is recommended if you have never had a yeast infection before or are unsure what is causing your symptoms. It is also important when symptoms do not improve after treatment.
You should also seek care when infections repeatedly return. Recurrent or complicated infections may require testing to identify the exact cause. (28)
See a healthcare professional if:
- This is your first suspected yeast infection.
- Symptoms do not improve after treatment.
- Symptoms return within a short period.
- You have repeated infections.
- Symptoms are severe.
- You are pregnant.
- You have diabetes.
- Your immune system is weakened.
- You have unusual discharge or a strong odor.
- You have pelvic pain or fever.
- You may have been exposed to an STI.
When Symptoms May Not Be a Yeast Infection
Not every case of itching means yeast. Bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, herpes, allergic reactions, skin conditions, and other causes can produce similar symptoms.
A strong fishy odor, green or yellow discharge, sores, pelvic pain, or fever can point toward another problem. These symptoms deserve professional evaluation.
Correct diagnosis matters because using an antifungal medicine for a bacterial or sexually transmitted infection will not treat the underlying problem.
Yeast Infection Treatment: Quick Guide
| Situation | Typical approach |
|---|---|
| Uncomplicated infection | Antifungal treatment |
| First suspected infection | Consider professional diagnosis |
| Severe infection | Longer treatment may be needed |
| Recurrent infection | Testing and longer-term management |
| Pregnancy | Healthcare-guided topical treatment |
| Non-albicans Candida | Testing and individualized treatment |
| Treatment failure | Reassessment and possible culture |
| Weakened immune system | Professional medical management |
Treatment should be individualized when symptoms are severe, recurrent, or unusual.
How to Reduce the Risk of Future Infections
You cannot prevent every yeast infection. Some people develop them despite having no obvious risk factors.
However, several general habits may help reduce irritation and avoid known triggers.
Practical steps include:
- Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use.
- Keep diabetes well controlled if you have it.
- Avoid vaginal douching.
- Avoid heavily scented genital products.
- Change out of wet clothing.
- Wear breathable underwear.
- Follow antifungal treatment instructions carefully.
- Seek evaluation for repeated infections.
- Avoid using multiple treatments at the same time without advice.
- Discuss recurrent symptoms with a healthcare professional.
Yeast Infection and Overall Health
A vaginal yeast infection is usually uncomfortable rather than dangerous. Most uncomplicated infections respond well to appropriate antifungal treatment.
The bigger concern is when symptoms keep returning, fail to respond to treatment, or occur alongside other symptoms. Those situations may indicate a different Candida species, drug resistance, another infection, or an underlying health problem.
Knowing when to seek medical care is therefore just as important as knowing the symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main cause of a yeast infection?
Most vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida, especially Candida albicans. The yeast can normally be present without causing symptoms. Problems occur when it grows excessively. (29)
What are the most common symptoms?
Itching, irritation, redness, swelling, soreness, burning, and thick white discharge are common. Pain during urination or sex can also occur.
Does a yeast infection have an odor?
A typical yeast infection usually does not produce a strong odor. A strong or fishy odor may suggest bacterial vaginosis or another condition. (30)
Is a yeast infection contagious?
Vaginal yeast infections are generally not considered sexually transmitted infections. Sexual activity can sometimes be associated with irritation or symptoms, but routine treatment of an asymptomatic partner is not recommended for uncomplicated cases. (31)
Can antibiotics cause yeast infections?
Yes, antibiotic use can increase the risk in some people because antibiotics can alter the balance of microorganisms that normally help limit yeast growth.
Can men get yeast infections?
Yes. Men can develop Candida infections of the penis, particularly when the skin becomes irritated or inflamed.
Can probiotics cure a yeast infection?
There is not enough evidence to recommend probiotics as a treatment for an active vaginal yeast infection. Established antifungal medicines remain the standard treatment. (32)
Can I treat a yeast infection at home?
Some uncomplicated infections can be treated with approved over-the-counter antifungal products. However, self-treatment is not appropriate for everyone, especially if this is your first infection, symptoms are severe, you are pregnant, or symptoms keep returning. (33)
What if the treatment does not work?
Do not keep repeating the same treatment without evaluation. Persistent symptoms may have another cause or may involve a Candida species that responds differently to standard medicines. Testing can help identify the problem. (34)
Can a yeast infection keep coming back?
Yes. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis can occur several times in a year. It may be associated with antibiotics, diabetes, immune problems, or different Candida species, although many people have no clear underlying cause. (35)
The Bottom Line
Vaginal yeast infection is a common condition caused by an overgrowth of Candida. It commonly produces itching, burning, redness, soreness, and thick white discharge. Most uncomplicated infections respond well to appropriate antifungal treatment. (36)
Not every vaginal symptom is caused by yeast. Bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, skin conditions, and other problems can look similar. If symptoms are new, severe, recurrent, or do not improve with treatment, medical evaluation is important.
The best approach is to identify the cause before repeatedly treating the symptoms. For people with recurrent or complicated infections, testing can help identify the Candida species and guide treatment. New antifungal medicines and other approaches are also being studied, giving researchers additional options for cases that are difficult to treat.
Sources
- CDC — Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Treatment Guidelines — diagnosis, treatment, recurrent infections, pregnancy, non-albicans Candida, and partner management.
- Mayo Clinic — Yeast Infection: Symptoms and Causes — symptoms, risk factors, and general patient guidance.
- Mayo Clinic — Yeast Infection: Diagnosis and Treatment — diagnostic and treatment information.
- Cleveland Clinic — Vaginal Yeast Infection — patient-oriented information about vaginal candidiasis.
- 2025 Umbrella Review of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Treatments — PubMed — review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of current treatments.
- Ibrexafungerp Systematic Review and Meta-analysis — PubMed — evidence on a newer antifungal treatment option.
- Antifungal Resistance in Vaginal Candidiasis — PubMed — recent review of antifungal resistance.
- Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Review — PMC — background on vaginal candidiasis and risk factors.
- Mayo Clinic — Vaginal infections can have similar symptoms — distinguishing yeast infections from bacterial vaginosis and other causes.
