Yeast Infections and How to Cure Them

HOW DO I GET RID OF A YEAST INFECTION?

The treatment for a yeast infection is a usually an antifungal cream or ointment that you apply directly inside your vagina. Monistat? and GyneLotrimin are the most common antibiotic creams for yeast infections. They're available at the drugstore without a prescription. You use an applicator, like the ones used for tampons, to put the antibiotic in the right place.

Creams are messy, but they can give you instant relief if you have itching on the outside of your vagina. They can be used for 1, 3, or 7 days, depending on the medication. Some girls prefer to cure a yeast infection with an oral antibiotics called fluconazole (Diflucan?). But you can only get this medication with a prescription from your health professional.

HOW DO I KNOW IF THE MEDICINE FOR MY YEAST INFECTION IS WORKING?

Normally, girls feel better within 24 hours after starting the right medicine. When a girl doesn't feel better within 48 hours, it's possible that the medication she's using is not right for the type of vaginal infection she has. If you have any questions about whether you have the right medicine, you should call your health professional.

CAN'T I JUST BUY ONE OF THOSE CREAMS AT THE DRUGSTORE AND TREAT MYSELF?

Although there are many nonprescription medications for vaginal infections, you should talk your health professional before using one for the first time. You need to know what type of vaginal infection you have, so you can choose the right medication or get a prescription medicine if necessary.

If you're sure that you have a yeast infection, because your symptoms are the same as the last time you had one, you can treat yourself with one of the medicines available at the drugstore.