What should you know about Vagisil for yeast infection?

Vagisil is a brand with different formulations, so the name alone does not identify the active ingredient. A soothing or anti-itch product may reduce discomfort on the outer skin without treating yeast inside the vagina. It can also irritate sensitive skin in some people. Itching, discharge and vulval pain are not specific to thrush, so symptoms should be assessed when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Read the active ingredients and intended area on the package. Do not put an external product inside the vagina unless its instructions specifically say it is for internal use. Avoid fragranced washes and stop a product that causes burning, swelling or a rash. A pharmacist or clinician can help select an antifungal when symptoms fit thrush, and can advise on testing when this is a first episode or symptoms keep returning.

Arrange care for strong-smelling discharge, fever, lower abdominal pain, sores, bleeding, marked swelling or symptoms that do not improve. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, diabetes, immune problems or repeated episodes are reasons to seek individual advice before self-treatment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit thrush, whether the product is external or internal, which antifungal is suitable, and what to do if itching continues.