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Itching and burning in your genital area may signal a vaginal yeast infection. But these symptoms are also possible signs of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other problem.

Read on to learn about yeast infections, how they differ from other vaginal infections, and when to call the doctor.

What Is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

A vaginal yeast infection happens when there’s an overgrowth of Candida, a yeast that exists alongside bacteria in the vagina. When the balance alters, the yeast can grow excessively and cause an infection.

The medical name for a vaginal yeast infection is vaginal candidiasis.

Yeast infections are uncomfortable and common. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 75% of all women will have a yeast infection in their lifetime. Yeast infections mainly affect women in their childbearing years.

Yeast infection symptoms can range from mild to severe. They include:

• Burning when you pee.
• Itching and burning of the vulva (outer part of your genitals).
• Painful sex.
• Red, swollen vulva.
• Swelling or cracks in the vagina.
• Vaginal discharge that looks white and lumpy, like cottage cheese.

Can a Yeast Infection Mean Something More Serious?

Yeast infections can share symptoms with more serious types of vaginal conditions. It’s easy to confuse signs of STIs or bacterial vaginosis versus a yeast infection.

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV) — BV happens when there’s too much bacteria in the vagina. Symptoms include burning, itching, and a fishy odor from the vagina. You may have increased white, gray, or yellow discharge.
• STIs — Itching, burning, and an unusual or foul-smelling discharge are possible signs of an STI. But many STIs have few symptoms. If you’re sexually active, you should get tested regularly for STIs.

How to tell if it’s not a yeast infection

You should consult your doctor for testing and treatment. A misdiagnosed vaginal infection could lead to more serious problems. That’s because treatments for yeast infections don’t work on BV or STIs.

Can a yeast infection lead to complications?

Yeast infections are usually not serious, and you can easily treat them. However, there is a chance of more significant issues to occur from those with a weakened immune system or poorly controlled diabetes.

What Causes Yeast Infections?

Doctors don’t always know what causes yeast infections. But the following risk factors make an overgrowth of yeast more likely.

• A weak immune system — A weakened immune system and infections go hand in hand.
• Clothes that trap heat and moisture — Tight-fitting clothes that don’t let your skin breathe create the ideal environment for yeast to grow.
• Diabetes — Poorly controlled blood sugar creates a breeding ground for yeast.
• Hormonal birth control — Higher doses of estrogen can lead to yeast infections.
• Irritating products — Soaps, deodorants, douches, and powders can encourage yeast growth.
• Pregnancy — Hormones produced during pregnancy can increase the risk of infections.
• Sexual activity — Yeast infections aren’t STIs. But sex introduces new bacteria into the vagina, and that can throw off the yeast-bacteria balance.
• Taking antibiotics for another condition — Antibiotics may kill the bacteria that keep yeast levels balanced.

What causes recurring yeast infections?

Recurring yeast infections can mean a more serious problem. They may signal uncontrolled diabetes or an immune system problem like HIV. Let your doctor know if you have four or more yeast infections per year.

Home Remedies for Mild Yeast Infections

You can treat mild yeast infections at home, especially if you’ve had one before and recognize the symptoms. Try:

• Applying certain oils with anti-fungal properties — Many women find relief by using coconut oil on the infected area. Diluted tea tree oil may have a similar effect.
• Consuming probiotics — Yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchee all contain good bacteria that can help keep yeast under control. You can also take probiotic pills.
• Taking over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal treatment — One effective form is a vaginal cream that you apply for up to a week.

If your home yeast infection treatment isn’t working after a week, call your doctor.

When to See a Doctor for a Yeast Infection

Is it a yeast infection or something else? It’s not always easy to tell, but when in doubt, it’s always best to check with your doctor.

There are definite signs your yeast infection needs medical attention. Call the doctor if you:

• Are pregnant.
• Have never had a yeast infection before.
• Have pelvic pain or a fever.
• Have recurrent yeast infections (four or more per year).
• Have yeast infection symptoms that won’t go away.
• Notice changes in your vaginal discharge.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and how long they’ve been happening. They may do a pelvic exam and take a sample of vaginal discharge for testing.

Yeast infection treatment from your doctor is usually an antifungal treatment. These come in creams, ointments, vaginal suppositories, and pills.

If your yeast infection doesn’t clear up or gets worse, your doctor may prescribe additional medicines that are taken by mouth. These include:

• Diflucan
• Flucytosine
• Nystatin

Pregnancy and Yeast Infections

If you have yeast infections during pregnancy, treatment is even more important. An untreated yeast infection can lead to complications like a miscarriage or a premature birth.

Don’t take OTC treatments without seeing your doctor first. Your doctor can tell you which medicines are safe to take while you’re pregnant.

Preventing Yeast Infections

Even a mild yeast infection can feel uncomfortable. But you can take the following steps to prevent them from occurring:

• Change tampons and pantyliners often.
• Choose breathable underwear made from cotton.
• Don’t sit in a wet bathing suit or sweaty workout clothes.
• Don’t use douches, feminine washes, or any kind of soap in your vulva area.
• Don’t wear tight underwear, pants, or pantyhose, and consider sleeping without underwear if it is comfortable.
• Eat more yogurt or take probiotic supplements.
• Finish any antibiotics your doctor prescribes.
• Manage your blood sugar if you have diabetes.
• Towel-dry your genital area after a bath or shower.
• Use condoms during sex to stop new bacteria from entering your vagina.
• Wash menstrual cups, cervical caps, or diaphragms after every use.