Key questions and answers related to vaginal infections

1. I am in doubt about being yeast infection, but I am not sure. If my symptoms keep going, should I use one of the over-the-counter treatments?
Over-the counter treatment with antifungal can be advised, if you had yeast infections previously and you have also the same symptoms now like odorous vaginal discharge, burning, itching and discomfort. But, most of the vaginal infections which can cause some reproductive health problems like sexually transmitted diseases or premature birth have the same symptoms. If you have never had yeast infection or are not sure about the infection, apply to your health care expert for your symptom’s survey before applying to self-treatment with OTC.

2. I should use seven-day treatment and I am on the third day of the treatment. All my symptoms are gone. Is it OK to give up medication?
No, it is necessary to use all the medications which are prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms can disappear, but the infection is not cured thoroughly. Now, if you give up using the medication, there is always chance to reoccur for the infection.

3. There is itching and an odorous discharge in my vagina. Is it the yeast infection?
No, an odorous discharge is not a symptom of yeast infection. It can be the bacterial Vaginosis (BV) symptom. It is as common as yeast infection, but this vaginal infection is more serious. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) has different treatment from yeast infection. If you want more guidance, apply to your health care expert.

4. Can the women who are pregnant, nursing or have diabetes or HIV make self-treatment of yeast infection? Is it risky?
First of all, the women who are pregnant, nursing or have diabetes or HIV have more risk to get yeast infection than the normal women. Moreover, these women should always apply to their health care experts rather than self-treatment. Because, yeast drug treatments can interfere with the other health problem treatments (Diabetes, HIV) and can be risky for the baby.

5. Can yeast infections cause to damage for my developing baby when I am pregnant?
No, but it is beneficial for you to apply to your health care expert for surveying. Furthermore, some treatments such as fluconazole (Diflucan) which are sold on the market are not advised during pregnancy. Be sure that you make aware your health care expert and your pharmacist that you are pregnant.

6. I have recurrent yeast infections. Is it necessary for my sexual partner to being treated?
It has not been proved whether vaginal yeast infections are transmitted with sexual relation or not. But, if your sexual partner has the symptoms of redness, itching, burning and irritation at the tip of his penis, he can be treated. Rarely, women’s sexual partner’s treatment can be recommended. Moreover, recurrent yeast infections can be the symptoms of a different problem. So, it is necessary to apply to your health care expert for surveying.

7. It is a common idea that douching helps to keep women clean. What is the risk of douching?
The healthy vaginal cycle needs to have right balance of bacterial flora. The vaginal mucosa protects the vagina against pathogens. This mucosa is made up of healthy bacteria called lactobacillus. These bacteria make hydrogen peroxide and this peroxide keeps the unhealthy bacteria out of the hand. And also, this keeps the yeast level at the normal level. Over douching can damage the balance of bacteria and can lead to infections.

8. My health care expert advised me some antibiotics to cure unrelated illness. Should I take some precautions to avoid getting yeast infections?
You should wear loose cotton clothes and underwear. Keep dry and clean yourself. Get away from the scented or irritating soaps, powders and toilet tissues. Get away from douching. Preventive dose of medication is necessary.