Yeast Infection

Common signs and symptoms include:2

• Itching in the vagina and vulva
• Burning sensation, especially during intercourse or urination
• Redness, swelling, and irritation of the vulva
• Vaginal pain and soreness
• Vaginal rash
• Thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance
• Watery vaginal discharge

A yeast infection is a fungal infection of the vagina and vulva.3 It occurs when the balance of beneficial bacteria and yeast in the vaginal area is disrupted. Factors that can increase the risk include:4

• Stress and lack of sleep
• Changes in physical environment
• Sitting too long in a wet bathing suit
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Birth control use
• Antibiotic use
• Not changing out of sweaty clothes promptly
• Scented tampons or vaginal deodorants
• Impaired immune system

Yeast infections can be passed between sexual partners through vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

Yeast infections do not go away on their own and require treatment. With proper medication, symptoms usually clear in a few days, though some cases may take up to a week.

No, yeast infections require medication for resolution.

Recurring yeast infections may indicate an underlying condition such as diabetes, HIV, or an autoimmune disorder. If you experience frequent infections, consult a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment.

Yes, men can develop yeast infections. They can be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner or occur due to factors such as poor hygiene, diabetes, or immune system issues.10

Preventive measures include:11

• Avoid douching
• Avoid feminine deodorants
• Do not use scented tampons or pads
• Change out of wet clothing, such as swimsuits or gym clothes, promptly
• Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing
• Use water-based sexual lubricants
• Manage diabetes and maintain healthy blood sugar levels

• 1. Cleveland Clinic
• 2. Mayo Clinic
• 3. U.S. Dept of Health & Human Services

The most effective way to treat a yeast infection is with antifungal medication, which can be taken orally or applied topically. Common medications for yeast infections include:

• Fluconazole (oral) (Generic Diflucan®)
• Miconazole Vaginal Cream (Generic Monistat®)
• Miconazole Vaginal Suppository (Generic Monistat®)
• Clotrimazole Topical Cream
• Ketoconazole 2% Cream (Generic Nizoral®)

It’s recommended to consult a medical professional if you suspect a yeast infection, as its symptoms are similar to other conditions, including sexually transmitted infections. A healthcare provider can confirm if your symptoms are due to a yeast infection.

Once confirmed, over-the-counter options are available, such as miconazole (Monistat 3) and terconazole.

Prescription medications can also be conveniently delivered to your home through telehealth services like Future Now Rx, starting at just $10 per treatment. Complete a quick online assessment, and a U.S. licensed medical provider will determine if medication is appropriate for you.

Prescribed treatments for yeast infections include:

• Fluconazole (oral) (Generic Diflucan®)
• Miconazole Vaginal Cream (Generic Monistat®)
• Miconazole Vaginal Suppository (Generic Monistat®)
• Clotrimazole Topical Cream
• Ketoconazole 2% Cream (Generic Nizoral®)

Antifungal treatments typically clear up a yeast infection within three to seven days.

For recurring or chronic yeast infections, treatment may include:

• Long-course vaginal therapy: Daily application of antifungal medication for up to two weeks, followed by weekly treatment for six months.
• Multidose oral medication: Two or three oral doses of an antifungal medication.
• Azole-resistant therapy: If the infection is resistant to antifungal medications, a provider may recommend boric acid capsules inserted into the vagina.

Yeast infections can be passed to sexual partners. It’s best to avoid sexual activity until the treatment is completed and symptoms have fully cleared.18

Yes. With Future Now Rx, you can easily obtain prescription medications for yeast infections online. Complete a short online assessment, and a U.S. licensed medical provider will determine if a prescription is appropriate for you.