What should you know about yeast infection medicine over the counter?

Vaginal thrush is an overgrowth of Candida in the vagina or on the vulval skin. It can cause itching, soreness, irritation, and a thick discharge, although symptoms overlap with other infections. Vaginal discharge and vaginal itching can have several causes, so a medicine chosen from a symptom alone may miss the problem.

A pharmacist can help you choose a product intended for vaginal thrush and explain how to use it. Follow the pack directions, complete the stated course, and avoid putting non-vaginal products inside the vagina. Keep the area gently clean and dry, and avoid scented washes that may irritate skin. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines, or unsure whether this is thrush, ask a clinician before treatment. Read the leaflet because some vaginal products can weaken latex condoms or diaphragms during use.

Arrange medical advice for a first suspected episode, symptoms that do not improve after treatment, frequent recurrence, unusual discharge, bleeding, fever, lower abdominal pain, sores, or marked vulval pain. Seek urgent help for severe pain, faintness, rapidly worsening illness, or an eye symptom. These features can point away from uncomplicated thrush or require a different treatment.

Ask which diagnosis best fits your symptoms, whether an examination or swab is needed, which product and route are suitable, and what to do if symptoms return. Mention pregnancy, allergies, medicines, diabetes, or immune problems because they can affect treatment choices.