VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION
PROBLEM
You have been diagnosed with a vaginal yeast infection. This is an infection or inflammation of the vagina that is caused by a fungus known as yeast (Monilia or Candida albicans). Symptoms include vaginal itching with burning, soreness and irritation. This may also cause related symptoms such as pain and burning with urination. Other symptoms may also include pain with intercourse.
CAUSE
Yeast cells (Monilia) are normally present on the skin in healthy people. An overgrowth of these cells results in a yeast infection. These cells may be found in the vagina or rectal area. However, because of a disturbance in the body’s hormones and pH, an overproduction of these cells has occurred and has caused an infection. Several factors can cause this disturbance, including menstrual periods, pregnancy, diabetes, antibiotics or other medications, increased dietary intake of sugars and alcohol, and an increase in moisture and warmth in the vaginal or rectal area by wearing tight, restrictive clothing.
PREVENTION
A.Keep the vaginal and rectal areas clean and dry.
B.Shower daily and avoid tub baths.
C.Avoid tight, restrictive clothing such as tight jeans and underwear.
D.Wear cotton panties that allow air to circulate. At bedtime, do not wear underwear with your pajamas.
E.Obesity can contribute to this problem, too. If you have gained an excessive amount of weight, try to lose these extra pounds.
F.Avoid douching because it changes the normal flora and pH of the vagina, which can contribute to causing yeast infections.
TREATMENT PLAN
A pelvic exam may have been necessary to identify the source of your infection. Practice preventive tips to speed your recovery.
Activity: Avoid excessive exercise and activities that produce excessive sweating; also avoid sexual intercourse until your infection is gone. Your partner may also need to be treated for this same infection.
Diet: Drink plenty of water and other liquids. Avoid alcohol and excessive sugars. Increase the intake of yogurt and buttermilk in your diet.
Medications: Antifungal medications may be prescribed for you:
A.Over-the-counter (OTC) medications may include Monistat vaginal suppositories and cream. This is also known as miconazole nitrate, which you may find in the drugstore at a much lower price and which can be just as effective.
B.You must use the full dosage of the OTC medication. If you stop too early, the yeast can regrow.
If you have also been diagnosed with a bacterial infection of the vagina, other medications may also be prescribed. If your provider has prescribed Flagyl (metronidazole), please do not drink any alcohol while taking this medication and for the next 3 days following this medication. The combination of this medication and alcohol can make you very sick.
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If:
A.OTC medications do not help your symptoms.
B.You develop other symptoms.
C.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE