Yeast Infection

A vaginal yeast infection is an overgrowth of a fungus called candida, which normally lives in small amounts in the body. Yeast infection symptoms include itching, burning, and a thick, white discharge. It is common, not an STI, and very treatable.

What Is It

Yeast grows when the normal balance of the vagina changes. Antibiotics, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, a weak immune system, and hormone changes raise the risk. Tight, damp clothing can also help yeast grow. About 3 in 4 women have at least one yeast infection in their lifetime.

Symptoms

Itching and irritation of the vagina and vulva
Burning, especially with urination
Redness and swelling
Thick, white, odorless discharge
Soreness
Pain or discomfort with intimacy

Not sure it’s a yeast infection? Thin, gray discharge with a fishy odor is more likely bacterial vaginosis. Burning with frequent, urgent urination may be a UTI.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines the area and may test a sample to confirm yeast and rule out other causes. Yeast infections are treated with antifungal creams or a prescription pill. Repeat infections may have an underlying cause, like diabetes.

At home:

Finish the full course of treatment, even if itching stops
Wear cotton underwear and loose clothing
Change out of wet swimsuits and workout clothes quickly
Avoid douching and scented soaps, sprays, and pads

Most yeast infections clear within 3 to 7 days of treatment.

When to Get Care for a Yeast Infection

Watch at Home

Mild itching like a past yeast infection you know well
Improving on over the counter treatment
No fever or pelvic pain

Come to Urgent Care Today

A first yeast infection, to confirm the diagnosis
Symptoms not improving after over the counter treatment
Four or more infections in a year
Symptoms during pregnancy
Sores, blisters, or a discharge with a strong odor

Go to the Emergency Department

Fever with severe pelvic or belly pain
Fainting or severe pain during pregnancy
Severe swelling with sores that keep spreading, and fever

FAQ

What are the first signs of a yeast infection?

The first signs of a yeast infection are usually itching and irritation, followed by burning and a thick, white discharge. The discharge usually has little or no odor.

How do I know if it’s a yeast infection or BV?

A yeast infection usually causes itching and thick, white discharge with little odor. BV usually causes thin, gray discharge with a fishy odor and less itching.

Can a yeast infection go away on its own?

A mild yeast infection sometimes clears on its own, but most need treatment. Over the counter or prescription antifungal treatment clears most infections in days.

Is a yeast infection an STI?

No, a yeast infection is not a sexually transmitted infection. It is an overgrowth of yeast that normally lives in the body.

Can urgent care treat a yeast infection?

Yes, urgent care can diagnose and treat a yeast infection. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can test a sample to confirm the cause and discuss treatment.

Why do I keep getting yeast infections?

Repeat yeast infections can come from antibiotics, diabetes, pregnancy, or hormone changes. Four or more a year should be checked to find the cause.

Last reviewed October 2026