Fungal Diseases

Treatment & Outcomes of Genital / Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

How is Genital / Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Treated?

Several different antifungal medications are available to treat genital candidiasis. Antifungal vaginal suppositories or creams are commonly used. The duration of the treatment course of creams and suppositories can range from one day to seven days of therapy. Mild or moderate infections can sometimes be treated with a single dose of oral antifungal medication. These types of medications usually work to cure the infection (80% to 90% success rate), but some people may have recurrent or resistant infections. Short-course treatments should not be used for recurrent or resistant infections.

Are Over-the-Counter Treatments Safe to Use?

Over-the-counter treatments for VVC are available. As a result, more women are diagnosing and treating themselves. However, it is important to be sure of the diagnosis before treating a genital / vulvovaginal candidiasis infection with over-the-counter or other antifungal medications. Overuse of these medications can increase the chance that they will eventually not work because the yeast can become resistant to treatment. Therefore, it is important to be sure of the diagnosis before treating a genital / vulvovaginal candidiasis infection with over-the-counter medications.

What Will Happen if a Person Does Not get Treated for Genital / Vulvovaginal Candidiasis?

Symptoms, which may be very uncomfortable, can persist. There is also a chance that the infection may be passed between sex partners.

How Can Someone Tell the Difference Between a Yeast Infection and a Urinary Tract Infection?

Because yeast infections and urinary tract infections can have similar symptoms, such as a burning sensation when urinating, it is important to see your doctor so that he or she can determine the cause of the symptoms and treat them with the correct medication.

For healthcare providers: the most up-to-date clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of VVC are available at the Infectious Diseases Society of America website.