The most definitive method of diagnosing a yeast infection is through a yeast infection test. This requires a visit to your doctor or health care provider. On visiting the doctor, you will be asked about the symptoms, the length of time you’ve had these symptoms and possibly any medications you are taking. Your honesty in answering these questions is critical, particularly if this is not the first time you’ve had this problem. If you’ve had this before, it is very possible you can have it again.
Usually the doctor will perform some tests to determine if the symptoms are indeed caused by a yeast infection. One test would be a vaginal wet mount or a vaginal smear. The physician will obtain a sample to be sent to the lab for a culture. If test results show an unusual amount of yeast, this will confirm that you have a yeast infection. Blood work may also be done to rule out diabetes or any other condition as a cause of the yeast infection.
When considering making an appointment with your gynecologist for yeast infection, be aware that some doctors will conduct pelvic examinations to determine any irritation of the vulvar skin that rests within the vagina and on the cervix. What your gynecologist is searching for is whether the vagina is dry or has white plaques along the vaginal wall.
Once test results have confirmed that a yeast infection is present, your physician can give you a prescription that will heal up the infection within a week or so. For recurring infections, your physician may prescribe tablets, creams or suppositories to help resolve the problem.
Research shows that a yeast infection can make you more vulnerable to sexually transmitted diseases. It’s not common but it’s easier for bacteria to get into the bloodstream when you have vaginal infections. Taking antibiotics too much can also cause yeast infections.
Commonly used home remedies for yeast infections include cranberry juice, apple cider vinegar, yogurt, olive leaf and grapefruit seed extracts, and potassium sorbate. Although a number of these remedies can alleviate some of the symptoms of yeast infection, they are ineffective in treating the underlying cause which is to reduce the outgrowth of yeast. Worse still, unless you are positive that your condition is in fact a yeast condition, these remedies may actually do more harm than good. That is why, if you suspect you may have a problem, even if it looks very much like a yeast infection, you really should consult a medical doctor first.
You should keep in mind that, during the whole time that you are receiving treatment for a yeast infection, there is a danger that you could infect your partner if you have sex, and that you thus should avoid sexual activity. Condoms will not prevent the spread of a yeast infection. Certain creams that are used to fight yeast infections can damage latex condoms, which in turn can lead to spreading the infection to your partner and a potential unwanted pregnancy.
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