Treating suspected yeast infection

Many women use over the counter medication to treat suspected yeast infection. Over the counter medication is usually sufficient and effective in treating yeast infections.

But there are many women who don't actually have a yeast infection but use over the counter yeast infection medication to treat their persistent vaginal itching. Repeated use of over the counter yeast infection medication can in fact cause harm. The normal flora of the vagina can be altered by overuse of OTC remedies leading to other health problems like drug-resistant strains of Candida which are becoming increasingly common.

Women who think they have persistent yeast infection actually do not have a yeast infection and their problem could be due to sexually transmitted infections, dry skin, or inflammation. Women need to see a doctor or nurse practitioner and have a pelvic exam and lab tests, if necessary.

Source: Reuters Health