Yeast infections are a common issue for many women, and if you’ve ever had one, you know how uncomfortable they can be — and how annoying they are to get rid of. But do yeast infections go away on their own, or do they always need treatment? Let’s dive into yeast infections, their causes, risk factors, and treatment options.
What is a vaginal yeast infection?
A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, particularly Candida albicans. This fungus is naturally present in the vaginal flora, but when it grows excessively, it can lead to an infection.
Up to 90% of yeast infections are caused by Candida albicans. But other strains like Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida krusei can also overgrow. Knowing the specific strain is important because it helps determine the best treatment option for you.
Common symptoms of a yeast infection include:
- A thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese
- Vaginal itching
- A burning sensation, especially when you pee or have sex
- Redness and swelling of the vulva
- Vaginal pain and soreness.
Causes and risk factors for yeast infections
A vaginal yeast infection can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- Antibiotics: These medications can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina, leading to yeast overgrowth.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone therapy can alter the vaginal environment, making it more susceptible to yeast infections.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can promote yeast growth.
- Weakened immune system: Having a weak immune system due to conditions such as an HIV infection or treatments like chemotherapy can reduce the body’s ability to fight off infections.
- Being sexually active: Although not classified as a sexually transmitted infection, sexual activity can introduce new bacteria that disrupt the vaginal balance.
Vaginal yeast infection treatment
Most yeast infections are typically straightforward to treat. Here are the most common treatments for a yeast infection:
Antifungal medication
Antifungal medications are the most effective treatment for vaginal yeast infections. They come in various forms such as creams, ointments, tablets, and suppositories. Over-the-counter options include miconazole (Monistat, Vagistat) and clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin, Mycelex). For more severe infections, a doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal like fluconazole (Diflucan).
The dosage, duration, and effectiveness of the treatment will depend on the specific strain causing the yeast infection, the severity of your symptoms, your overall health, and whether or not you're pregnant. Getting a yeast infection diagnosed is the first step in finding the right treatment. Depending on your circumstances, your healthcare provider may recommend different types of treatment, such as a longer or stronger dosage, or a combination of different treatments.
Boric acid
Boric acid capsules can be inserted into the vagina to help restore the natural pH and combat Candida overgrowth.
Boric acid can be effective in treating a vaginal yeast infection, especially if other antifungal treatments haven't worked or if you're dealing with recurrent yeast infections.
In some cases, boric acid might work even better than the first-line treatments like antifungals, especially when you're up against atypical (ie. non-albicans) Candida species. While you can buy boric acid over the counter, it's important to use it under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Home remedies for yeast infections
Most home remedies for vaginal yeast infections are not very effective and can sometimes do more harm than good, despite what you may read on the internet.
There have been few studies on the effectiveness of at-home or natural treatments for vaginal yeast infections, and the studies that have been done have some limitations, such as the need for a control group, a short follow-up period, or a small sample size. Therefore, home remedies like tea tree oil, kefir, garlic, and coconut oil are still considered unproven.
Can a vaginal yeast infection go away on its own?
In some cases, a mild yeast infection may clear up on its own without treatment — but this is very rare. There are several reasons why getting a yeast infection treated is better than waiting for a yeast infection to go away on its own:
- Speed of recovery: Without treatment, symptoms can persist for weeks, causing significant discomfort.
- Preventing complications: Untreated yeast infections can lead to more severe infections and complications.
- Recurrence: Proper treatment can reduce the likelihood of frequent yeast infections.
- Other infections: Yeast infections share the same symptoms as other infections, including chlamydia. This means you may think you have a yeast infection, but something else is causing your symptoms and needs attention, stat. It happens more often than you’d think — one study found that 69% of those who thought they had a yeast infection had something else.
If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice to get the appropriate treatment and guidance.
FAQ
How long do yeast infections last without treatment?
If left untreated, a yeast infection can last for several weeks or even longer. The exact duration can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the infection and your overall health. While mild yeast infections might eventually clear up on their own, they can cause significant discomfort and are prone to recurring or worsening without proper treatment. Seeking medical advice and using appropriate antifungal treatments can help speed up recovery and alleviate symptoms effectively.
What will happen if a yeast infection is left untreated?
If a vaginal yeast infection is left untreated, symptoms of a yeast infection like itching and burning, or unusual vaginal discharge can persist and may become more uncomfortable over time. Untreated yeast infections can sometimes progress into more serious infections, leading to redness, swelling, and cracks or sores around the vagina. These severe infections are still treatable, but they are much more uncomfortable and take longer to clear up. If you're pregnant, you can pass on a yeast infection to the baby during childbirth, potentially leading to oral thrush or diaper rash. Pregnant women are also more prone to recurrent infections due to hormonal changes, making it essential to treat the infection promptly.
Can my yeast infection go away naturally?
Yes, in some cases, a mild vaginal yeast infection can go away naturally without treatment. However, this isn't always guaranteed, and it’s not really worth the wait. Most yeast infections will need either over-the-counter treatment or prescription antifungal medication. Untreated vaginal yeast infections can lead to complications, and the longer you wait to treat it, the harder it is. There are no proven “natural” remedies for yeast infections.
Will my period flush out my yeast infection?
No, getting your period won’t flush out a yeast infection. If anything, being on your period can make it easier for a vaginal yeast infection to develop. Period blood is slightly alkaline, which can temporarily elevate the vaginal pH and make you more susceptible to vaginal infections. Luckily, you can still treat a vaginal yeast infection if you’re on your period.
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