Vaginal yeast infection: How long does it last and how to treat it
Vaginal yeast infections can cause itching, redness and swelling of the genital area. Find out how long a yeast infection lasts and what treatment options are right for you.
Vaginal yeast infections are very common and can be caused by antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes, physical inactivity or tight clothing. It can be very uncomfortable because it can be irritating and cause burning and redness down there. If you have a vaginal infection or vaginal candidiasis, your vaginal discharge will look like cottage cheese. Therefore, it is essential to get rid of these diseases. Antifungal creams, pills or probiotics can help treat vaginal infections. So how long does a yeast infection last?
What is a vaginal yeast infection?
Vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal disease caused by the overgrowth of yeast in the vagina, specifically Candida albicans. Normally, there is a balance of bacteria and yeast (like Candida) that coexist in a woman’s vagina. However, when this balance is disrupted, yeast can overgrow and cause diseases.
What causes vaginal yeast infections?
Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, and many factors can upset the balance of yeast and bacteria in the genital area. Here are the main causes:
1. Take antibiotics
In a 2008 study published in the American Journal of Family Physicians, participants experienced vaginal yeast symptoms for four to six weeks after taking the medication. Antibiotics can kill the good bacteria in your vagina that help control yeast growth, and this reaction can lead to an overgrowth of Candida.
2. Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes can affect the balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. These changes often occur during pregnancy, menopause, periods or while taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
3. Weakened immune system
A weakened immune system due to diseases like HIV/AIDS or the use of anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids can reduce the body’s ability to control the growth of yeast. This can cause infection there.
4. Diabetes
A 2018 study published in the American Diabetes Association’s journal Diabetes Care found that people with diabetes are more likely to get infections, including yeast infections, than people without the disease. Uncontrolled diabetes means there’s more sugar in the blood and vagina, creating an environment that encourages yeast to grow.
5. Poor hygiene
Poor hygiene, such as not changing wet clothes or sweaty work clothes, can lead to genital infections. Douching, using perfume, and even taking bubble baths can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina and lead to vaginal infections.
How is vaginal yeast infection treated?
All genital yeast treatment options are designed to eliminate Candida overgrowth and reduce symptoms like itching and burning. Here are some options:
1. Over-the-counter (OTC) Antifungal Medications
Antibiotics such as clotrimazole, nystatin, and ciclopirox can kill or slow the growth of fungi, including yeast, according to research published in 2022 by the National Library of Medicine. Take antibiotics orally for severe, recurrent infections. There are topical antifungal medications available in the form of ointments, creams, or suppositories that can be applied directly to the genital area.
2. Probiotics
Taking probiotics, especially those containing lactobacillus, can help restore the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina. First, unsweetened yogurt containing live cultures can be used as a home remedy and applied topically to the affected area. In a 2015 study published in the Journal of Global Health, researchers found that using yogurt and honey was effective in reducing symptoms of vaginal candidiasis.
3. Hygiene
Maintaining good hygiene habits, such as keeping genitals clean and dry, wearing breathable underwear, and avoiding tight clothing, can help prevent future infections. Reducing or eliminating odors, such as perfume and shower gel, can help reduce symptoms and promote healing.
4. Dietary changes
If you have diabetes, you should keep your blood sugar under control through diet and lifestyle changes. This will help reduce the risk of further infection down there.
How long does a vaginal yeast infection last?
This time will vary depending on the severity of the genital infection and the type of treatment used.
1. With Treatment
Vaginal yeast infections usually respond well to antibiotics and clear up in 3 to 7 days. These treatments usually include topical creams, ointments or suppositories. Oral antibiotics usually clear up the infection within a few days, sometimes within 1 to 3 days after a single dose.
2. Without treatment
In some cases, a minor infection in the genital area may clear up on its own within a week or two. But it’s best to find treatment that will reduce symptoms and keep them from coming back.