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If you experience itching, burning, or a change in your vaginal discharge, you may have a vaginal infection. You may be able to treat your infection without medication or with over-the-counter remedies, but it’s still important that you consult your doctor so they can diagnose you.
Steps
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Recognize the symptoms of BV. Bacterial vaginosis is typically marked by certain symptoms. These include: [1] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women's Health U.S. government agency providing resources for women's health Go to source
- Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor, often described as “fishy.”
- Vaginal discharge that is white or grey and may look foamy.
- Burning during urination.
- Itchiness and irritation around the vagina.
- Keep in mind that not all women with BV have symptoms.
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Recognize the symptoms of a yeast infection. Yeast infection symptoms can often resemble the symptoms of BV. These symptoms include: [2] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- An abnormal vaginal discharge. The discharge can be a watery, white discharge to a thick, white, and chunky discharge. This is often described as looking like cottage cheese.
- Itching and burning of the vagina and labia.
- Painful intercourse.
- Painful urination.
- Redness and swelling of the area just outside of the vagina.
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Recognize the symptoms of trichomoniasis. Symptoms of trichomoniasis (sometimes called “trich”) in women can be:
- Vaginal discharge that is usually smelly.
- Vaginal discharge that is typically frothy or foamy.
- Vaginal irritation.
- Yellow or a gray-green discharge.
- Painful urination. [3] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Keep track of your menstrual cycle. Vaginal infection symptoms can differ depending on where a woman is in her cycle. This is because the hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can affect the composition of the bacteria in the vagina and the characteristics of the vaginal environment. [4] X Research source
- Knowing your menstrual cycle will help you keep track of changes that you’re experiencing.
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Realize that some women experience no symptoms. Many women have BV but they do not have any of the tell-tale symptoms. [5] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source The same is the case for trichomoniasis. [6] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
- If you suspect you might have an infection, see your doctor.
- Trichomoniasis can be transmitted to sexual partners. If you suspect you have trich, see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.
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Know that the risk of BV increases with certain activities. Most women have probably had at least one experience with BV. There is no specific cause. Essentially anything that disrupts the normal bacterial balance in the vagina can result in BV. The risk of BV increases with: [7] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women's Health U.S. government agency providing resources for women's health Go to source
- Having a new sexual partner.
- Having multiple sexual partners.
- Having sex without a condom.
- Douching.
- Using an intrauterine device (IUD) as a method of birth control.
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Know what increases the risk of yeast infections. Yeast infections, also called candidiasis, are increased by:
- Wearing tight underwear or non-cotton panties. These styles of panties can increase the temperature and moisture levels around the vagina and can be irritating.
- A weakened immune system.
- Using vaginal douches and/or perfumed feminine hygiene sprays. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- Specific health conditions (e.g., diabetes). [9] X Research source
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Understand how these vaginal infections can occur. These types of infections can occur because of a number of causes.
- In BV, there is no specific cause, but it typically results from an imbalance of the normal bacterial populations. [10] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
- Yeast infections can result after antibiotic use; the antibiotics kill off the normal bacterial populations, allowing the yeast to get a “foothold.” They can also come about as a complication of diabetes or during hormonal changes, including a normal menstrual cycle or the use of birth control. [11] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Visit your doctor. It is important to get the correct diagnosis from a doctor before starting treatment. The treatments for the different forms of vaginal infections can be different, depending on the degree of infection. [12] X Research source
- At the doctor’s office, your physician will likely take a sample of the vaginal discharge, ask for a urine sample, and perform a vaginal exam. This exam may be uncomfortable but it is usually over quickly. The discharge will be tested for the presence of bacteria, yeast or other organisms such as trichomonas.
- It’s important to get a specific diagnosis from your doctor. The approaches for treating vaginal infections differ depending on the type of infection.
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Know the risks of leaving an infection untreated. Untreated or incorrectly treated BV can result in complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), pre-term births, low-birth-weight babies, and a higher risk of sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. [13] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Untreated or incorrectly treated Trichomonas infections can also lead to an increased risk of HIV. [14] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
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Tell your doctor you’re planning to use natural treatments. You should always get a diagnosis from your physician when you first start experiencing any of the symptoms. [15] X Research source This is because some natural treatments work better for BV or candidiasis, and others may not work as well. You can also use these treatments along with the medications prescribed by your physician. They don’t interfere with oral antibiotics.
- Tell your doctor that you are using these approaches. If you are successful, perhaps your physician can recommend the method to others.
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Warn sexual partners if you suspect you have trichomoniasis. Trichomoniasis is classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), so if you are diagnosed with trichomoniasis, you should inform any sexual partner so they can be treated as well. [16] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- If trichomoniasis is the diagnosis, then home remedies are not appropriate.
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Treat a yeast infection with a boric acid suppository. Boric acid can be irritating, so you shouldn’t make your own suppository. Do not directly apply it to the vagina. Instead, fill size 0 gelatin capsules fully with boric acid powder; then, insert it into your vagina nightly for 2 weeks. [17] X Research source
- You must not be the recipient of oral sex while using boric acid because boric acid is poisonous to your partner.
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Get an over-the-counter gel or cream. Most of the gels and creams for vaginal yeast infections that you can get over-the-counter are almost as effective as anti-fungal medications. Examples include Monistat and Gyne-Lotrimin. Use as directed. If you have recurrent infections, use for seven days. [18] X Research source
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See your doctor about recurring or long-lasting vaginal infections. If you keep getting vaginal infections or your infection won't go away, make an appointment to see your doctor. Recurrent (or “complicated”) yeast infections often occur in tandem with serious underlying disorders such as diabetes or HIV. [19] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- If your symptoms don't clear up after three days, talk with your doctor about taking medication. You should also see your doctor if your symptoms return or worsen.
- Your doctor may prescribe an anti-fungal medication to manage the recurring infection. You will likely need to take this medication every week or month for six months. [20] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Take antibiotics for BV and trichomoniasis. Treatment will depend on the type of infection, how extensive or severe it is, and how long you have had the infection. Antibiotics are prescribed for BV and for trichomoniasis, but they are not effective on yeast infections. [21] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
- BV is generally treated with either metronidazole or clindamycin. These are considered safe if you are pregnant. [22]
X
Trustworthy Source
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services
Go to source
- Male partners usually don’t need treatment, but female partners should be informed and tested. [23] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women's Health U.S. government agency providing resources for women's health Go to source
- Trichomoniasis is usually treated with a single dose of either metronidazole or tinidazole. These are considered safe if you are pregnant. [24]
X
Trustworthy Source
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services
Go to source
- Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection, so make sure your sexual partner(s) are treated as well and wait for seven days after treatment to have sex. [25] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
- BV is generally treated with either metronidazole or clindamycin. These are considered safe if you are pregnant. [22]
X
Trustworthy Source
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services
Go to source
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Treat stubborn vaginal yeast infections with an anti-fungal cream. Vaginal yeast infections can be treated with anti-fungal creams, ointments and vaginal suppositories.
- Examples of these treatments are miconazole (Monistat 3) and terconazole (Terazol 3). Your doctor can prescribe them or they are available (in weaker doses) over-the-counter at your pharmacy. [26] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Treat a long-lasting yeast infection with fluconazole. Vaginal yeast infections can also be treated with a single oral dose of fluconazole (Diflucan). [27] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source Recurrent or more complicated yeast infections may be treated with higher doses of the medications or you may be asked to take them for a longer period of time.
- Most often, your partner won’t need treatment. However, this may change if you experience recurrent infections. [28] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Use caution if you are pregnant. Pregnant women can experience yeast infections, which should be cleared up before the baby is due. If you still have a yeast infection when the baby is born, it can pass to the baby, causing thrush. [29] X Research source
- Check with your doctor about treating vaginal infections during this time.
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Take oral probiotics to prevent BV. You can take probiotics by mouth (either as capsules or in yogurt). These are mainly useful for prevention rather than treatment of BV. [30] X Research source Yogurt can also be a good source of probiotics, as some types of yogurt have 90 to 500 billion Colony Forming Units (CFUs). [31] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to source Make sure to choose a yogurt that has this information on the label.
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Wash your genital area gently. Use a very mild soap and warm water to wash your genital area. Dry yourself with a clean towel or allow yourself to air dry. You can also try drying it with a blow dryer set on cool. [32] X Research source
- Avoid scratching or rubbing your genitals. Keep irritation at a minimum by leaving your genitals alone. Don’t scratch or rub the area.
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Wear only 100% cotton underwear. Cotton allows your genital area to stay cool and dry. Avoid nylon, acetate, and any synthetic fibers. [33] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- Avoid wearing thong underwear because these tend to be irritating.
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Use a mild detergent for your underwear. Use a mild and enzyme-free soap (such as fragrance-free Woolite) for washing your panties. Do not use fabric softeners or dryer sheets. These also contain chemicals that may irritate you. [34] X Research source
- Double-rinse your underwear to ensure that all detergent is gone. Detergent residue can cause irritation.
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Practice good habits with toileting. Use white, soft toilet tissue. Remember to always wipe from the front to the back to minimize the risk of infection from bowel bacteria. [35] X Research source
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Use unscented period products during the day. Instead of using scented napkins or napkins while you have your period, use unscented varieties. Replace tampons every few hours, depending on your flow. [36] X Research source
- Do not leave tampons in overnight. Use sanitary pads instead.
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Avoid wearing pantyhose. Tight clothing like pantyhose do not allow the genital area to “breathe.” They also trap heat and moisture, which creates the perfect setting for bacteria, yeast, and other organisms. [37] X Research source Instead, wear nylons with a cotton panty insert.
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Avoid irritating products. Avoid period products, which can irritate the vulva. These include deodorant sanitary pads, all vaginal sprays and deodorants, and any products with added perfumes. [38] X Research source
- Avoid bubble baths, bath oils, talc, or powder, especially powder that contains cornstarch. Cornstarch provides food for microorganisms.
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Treat vaginal infections after getting diagnosed. While some vaginal infections can be cured without the use of medications, it’s important to consult your OB/GYN or primary physician before beginning any treatment. [39] X Research source
- Since some symptoms are common among multiple types of vaginal infections, self-diagnosis is both difficult and risky. An official diagnosis from your doctor is the only safe way to identify the type and degree of vaginal infection you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have a strong preference for natural remedies. Some doctors are willing to work with you to accommodate this preference, and they should be able to guide you on which remedies would be best to try for your specific needs.
- Note that trichomoniasis is technically an STI. [40] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Natural remedies will not be sufficient to cure an infection caused by trichomoniasis; you will need medication to treat it.
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Try natural remedies if you can limit or abstain from sexual activity during treatment. Abstaining from sexual activity may not be necessary for all treatments, but you should check with your doctor or do some thorough research to determine if the remedy you’ve chosen is safe for you and your partner before engaging in sexual activity during treatment.
- In particular, exercise extreme caution when taking boric acid suppositories. Boric acid is toxic when ingested, making oral sex especially dangerous. [41] X Research source
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Warnings
- Natural methods don’t work for everyone. It is a reasonable choice to take medications, which have 80% to 90% rate of success. It’s not clear what the success rate of natural methods is.Thanks
- BV can lead to preterm labor, so it’s important to get treatment right away. [42] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to sourceThanks
- There’s no substantial research that proves vaginal probiotics can help cure vaginal infections. If you’d really like to try using them, opt for a product that has lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 as an ingredient. [43] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to sourceThanks
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Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about feminine hygiene, check out our in-depth interview with Cindy Basinski, MD .
References
- ↑ https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/bacterial-vaginosis
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001511.htm
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4696-trichomoniasis
- ↑ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1600-0897.2007.00504.x
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3963-bacterial-vaginosis
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/trichomoniasis/about/
- ↑ https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/bacterial-vaginosis
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999
- ↑ https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/illnesses-conditions/infectious-diseases/vaginal-yeast-infections
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/bacterial-vaginosis/about/index.html
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/how-do-i-get-checked-and-treated-vaginitis
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/bacterial-vaginosis/about/index.html
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/trichomoniasis/about/
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/how-do-i-get-checked-and-treated-vaginitis
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/trichomoniasis-test/
- ↑ https://www.uwmedicine.org/sites/stevie/files/2018-11/Boric-Acid-for-Recurrent-Vaginal-Yeast-Infections.pdf
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/what-yeast-infection
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20379004
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/trichomoniasis.htm
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/bv.htm
- ↑ http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/bacterial-vaginosis.html
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/trichomoniasis.htm
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/trichomoniasis.htm
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5019-vaginal-yeast-infection#management-and-treatment
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/basics/treatment/con-20035129
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/basics/treatment/con-20035129
- ↑ https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-complications/yeast-infections-during-pregnancy/
- ↑ https://journals.lww.com/jaapa/fulltext/2021/02000/probiotics_for_preventing_recurrent_bacterial.2.aspx
- ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-get-more-probiotics
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/how-do-i-prevent-vaginitis
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003159.htm
- ↑ https://health.missouristate.edu/_Files/Guidelinesforvulvarcare.pdf
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/how-do-i-prevent-vaginitis
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/how-do-i-prevent-vaginitis
- ↑ https://health.missouristate.edu/_Files/Guidelinesforvulvarcare.pdf
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/how-do-i-prevent-vaginitis
- ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/how-do-i-get-checked-and-treated-vaginitis
- ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/trichomoniasis/
- ↑ https://www.uwmedicine.org/sites/stevie/files/2018-11/Boric-Acid-for-Recurrent-Vaginal-Yeast-Infections.pdf
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6345902/
- ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/should-you-use-probiotics-for-your-vagina-2019122718592
About This Article
Article Summary
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If you don't know what type of infection you have, see your doctor to get a diagnosis. If it's bacterial vaginosis (BV), use a douche or apply periodontal gel in and around your vagina. If you have a yeast infection, try inserting a yogurt or probiotic suppository into your vagina. Avoid wearing tight underwear or using irritating hygiene products while you have an infection, and talk to your doctor if your infection persists. To learn how to prevent vaginal infections, keep reading.
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- "I am trying these home remedies now. I hope they work, I've been to 3 doctors in the past 6 months and they all said that I didn't have any major problems, so hopefully these will work with my odor and discharge. Thank you so much!" ..." more
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