Antifungal Cream

5 Over the Counter Yeast Infection Creams

What is Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. Yeast is a type of fungus that is normally found in small amounts on the skin and inside the body without causing any problems. But in a favorable environment, yeast can rapidly multiply and grow out of control, causing an infection called candidiasis.

Candidiasis affects many parts of the body but often occurs in the vagina and is commonly referred to as a yeast infection. Men can also get candidiasis on the genitals, but it is much less common. Oral candidiasis is known as thrush and a yeast infection can also occur in skin folds, the navel, nailbeds, and in the diaper area. 

What causes Vaginal Yeast Infection?

A vaginal yeast infection is usually caused by candida albicans and occasionally by other species of Candida. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), yeast infections affect up to 75% of women at least once in their lifetime.

Normally good bacteria keep yeast in balance in the vagina. A yeast infection typically occurs when this balance gets disrupted. Conditions that can cause the yeast to grow out of control include:

• Pregnancy 
• Uncontrolled diabetes 
• Weakened immune system 
• Medications, including antibiotics, oral contraceptives, or certain steroids
• Douches or vaginal sprays
• Wearing wet or tight clothes

Symptoms of Yeast Infection 

The symptoms of vaginal yeast infection include:

• Itchiness, irritation, or burning sensation in the vagina and vulva (outer part of the female genitals)
• Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva
• Pain and burning during sex and urination 
• A thick, white vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese
• Rash 

How to treat Vaginal Yeast Infection? 

Antifungal medications are used to treat most vaginal yeast infections. Your doctor can prescribe the best treatment based on your symptoms and condition. 

Most mild to moderate yeast infections are simple to treat. An over-the-counter yeast infection cream can be used effectively but be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before buying any OTC antifungal cream. These creams are applied via an applicator inside the vagina, preferably at bedtime. Treatment can run from 1 to 7 days, depending on the severity of the infection.

For more complicated yeast infections that do not respond to over-the-counter treatment, you may need a prescription medication.

Common antifungal creams and medicines for yeast infection include:

• Butoconazole
• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Terconazole

5 Best Over-the-Counter Yeast Infection Treatments

How to prevent Yeast Infection

It may not be possible to prevent yeast infections completely, but you can take steps to lower your chances of getting one. 

• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent yeast infections in the mouth.
• Choose cotton and breathable underwear.
• Wear loose-fitting pants or skirts. 
• Don’t wear tight underwear and pantyhose.
• Avoid douching.
• Never use scented tampons or pads.
• In the bathroom, always wipe from front to back.
• Change out of wet clothes and bathing suits as soon as possible.
• Manage blood sugar levels.
• Keep skin and skin folds dry.

Vaginal yeast infections are quite common, and symptoms are easily managed by over-the-counter medications. However, if you have never had a yeast infection before, it is a good idea to see your medical provider for a proper diagnosis. The signs and symptoms of a yeast infection are similar to other more serious infections, such as STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and bacterial vaginosis. 

HPFY carries a large collection of that treats most fungal infections, including candidiasis. Check out our complete line at HPFY.

 

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