Best Over The Counter Medicine For Yeast Infection
If you're experiencing the uncomfortable symptoms of a yeast infection, you're not alone. Yeast infections are a common problem, affecting many women at some point in their lives. Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter (OTC) medicines available that can help you get relief from the itching, burning, and discharge associated with yeast infections.
What is a yeast infection?
A yeast infection is a type of fungal infection that affects the vagina. It is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, which is normally present in the vagina in small amounts. When the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina is disrupted, Candida can grow out of control and cause an infection.
Symptoms of a yeast infection
The symptoms of a yeast infection can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:
- Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
- Burning sensation during urination or sex
- Redness and swelling of the vulva
- Thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese
Over-the-counter treatments for yeast infections
If you're experiencing the symptoms of a yeast infection, there are many over-the-counter treatments available that can help you get relief. These treatments come in a variety of forms, including creams, ointments, suppositories, and oral tablets.
1. Monistat
Monistat is one of the most popular OTC treatments for yeast infections. It comes in a variety of forms, including creams, ointments, and suppositories. Monistat contains the active ingredient miconazole, which works by stopping the growth of the Candida fungus. Monistat is easy to use and can provide relief from symptoms in as little as one day.
2. Vagisil
Vagisil is another popular OTC treatment for yeast infections. It comes in a variety of forms, including creams, wipes, and powders. Vagisil contains the active ingredient benzocaine, which works by relieving itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva. Vagisil is easy to use and can provide relief from symptoms in as little as five minutes.
3. Canesten
Canesten is a popular OTC treatment for yeast infections in the United Kingdom and Canada. It contains the active ingredient clotrimazole, which works by stopping the growth of the Candida fungus. Canesten comes in a variety of forms, including creams, suppositories, and oral tablets. It is easy to use and can provide relief from symptoms in as little as three days.
4. Fem-Dophilus
Fem-Dophilus is a unique OTC treatment for yeast infections. It contains two strains of probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, which work by restoring the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina. Fem-Dophilus comes in the form of oral capsules and is easy to use. It can help prevent yeast infections from recurring and can provide relief from symptoms in as little as one to two weeks.
When to see a doctor
If you're experiencing the symptoms of a yeast infection for the first time, it's a good idea to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis. Yeast infections share symptoms with other vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A doctor can perform tests to rule out other infections and recommend the best treatment for your specific condition.
Conclusion
Yeast infections can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but there are many over-the-counter treatments available that can help you get relief from your symptoms. Monistat, Vagisil, Canesten, and Fem-Dophilus are just a few of the options available. If you're experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection for the first time, it's a good idea to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best treatment for your specific condition.