Yeast is a fungus that lives in the vagina in small numbers. A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, can develop when there are too many yeast cells growing in the vagina. The symptoms can range from being annoying to unbearable, but fortunately, most yeast infections can be treated easily.

Yeast Infection Symptoms

There are a number of physical signs that may indicate a yeast infection. The most common symptoms include:

1. Thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance
2. Vaginal pain and soreness
3. A burning sensation, especially during intercourse or while urinating
4. Itching and irritation in the vagina and at the entrance to the vagina (vulva)
5. Redness and swelling of the vulva

After knowing the yeast infection symptoms, you need to schedule an appointment with your doctor or a nurse at your gynecologist's office. A brief vaginal examination will be performed by your doctor or nurse and then a cotton swab will be inserted to take a sample of vaginal discharge in order to conduct a yeast count.

Yeast Infection Treatment

Remember that you should only treat a yeast infection yourself if you are fully confident in your diagnosis. Some oral treatment like single-dose tablet of the antifungal medication fluconazole (Diflucan) is usually prescribed by a doctor as the treatment. Relief can be expected within the first 12-24 hours. However, as we all know, antibiotics will cause drug resistance that means it may relieve the symptoms in certain time but may occur recurrently if patients stop taking it. Herbal therapy like Fuyan Pill is another alternative option. It is made from Chinese herbs without any side effects and drug resistance.

Remember that do not stop using these treatments early once you no longer experience any symptoms. Use them for as long as directed according to the instructions. If you use an over-the-counter treatment and don't experience relief with 2-3 days, make an appointment with your physician to discuss an alternative treatment. Be careful with condoms if you use anti-fungal creams or suppositories. The oil in some of the medications can weaken the latex in condoms.