Vaginal Yeast Infection: Signs, Diagnosis & Treatment (2025)

Vaginal Yeast Infection

What Is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis or thrush, is a common fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida species, particularly Candida albicans. While small amounts of Candida naturally exist in the vagina, certain conditions can disrupt the microbial balance, leading to an infection.

This condition typically results in symptoms such as itching, burning, abnormal vaginal discharge, and irritation around the vaginal area. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities, including work, sleep, and sexual comfort.

Vaginal yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs), although they can occasionally be triggered by sexual activity or transmitted between partners.

Woman holding pelvic area, showing discomfort from vaginal yeast infection symptoms.

What Are the Common Symptoms?

Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection usually involve irritation, unusual discharge, and discomfort, though the severity can vary from person to person.

Typical symptoms include:

  • Itching and irritation around the vaginal and vulval areas
  • Thick, white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese
  • Redness and swelling of the vulva
  • General soreness or discomfort in the vaginal area
  • Burning sensation during urination or sexual intercourse

Some individuals may experience only mild symptoms, while others may find that the condition significantly affects their daily comfort and activities.

Vaginal Yeast Infections Causes

Vaginal yeast infections can arise from various biological, behavioural, and environmental factors that disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina.

Common causes include:

  • Antibiotic use – Certain antibiotics can reduce the healthy bacteria in the vagina that normally help keep Candida under control.
  • Hormonal fluctuations – Changes during pregnancy, use of oral contraceptives, or hormone replacement therapy can affect the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina.
  • Use of harsh hygiene products – Scented soaps, douches, and vaginal sprays can disturb the vaginal environment.
  • Tight or non-breathable clothing – Prolonged moisture and warmth can create favourable conditions for fungal growth.
  • Poorly controlled diabetesElevated blood sugar levels may encourage fungal overgrowth.
  • Weakened immune system – Individuals with conditions such as HIV or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy may be more susceptible.
  • Sexual activity or reinfection from a partner – While vaginal yeast infections are not considered STIs, sexual activity may sometimes trigger symptoms or contribute to recurrence in some individuals.
Microscopic view of Candida albicans, the fungus causing vaginal yeast infections.

How Is a Vaginal Yeast Infection Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a vaginal yeast infection typically involves a clinical evaluation and, when necessary, laboratory testing to confirm the presence of Candida.

This may include:

  1. Reviewing your medical history and symptoms, including any previous infections, recent antibiotic use, hormonal changes, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes.
  2. Performing a pelvic examination, to check for signs of inflammation, discharge, or irritation.
  3. Taking a vaginal swab, for microscopic examination or culture.

Because symptoms can resemble those of other conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or STIs, precise diagnosis is important to guide appropriate treatment.

How to Treat a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Treatment for vaginal yeast infections typically involves antifungal medications, which may be applied locally to the vaginal area or taken orally, depending on the severity and frequency of the infection.

Common treatment approaches include:

  • Topical antifungal creams or suppositories (e.g., clotrimazole or miconazole) – Applied over the vulva or inserted into the vagina for several days to reduce fungal overgrowth.
  • Oral antifungal medication (e.g., fluconazole) – Usually prescribed as a single-dose for uncomplicated cases.
  • Combination therapies – May be recommended for more severe or recurrent infections (typically defined as four or more episodes within a 12-month period), involving both topical and oral treatments over an extended course.
  • Addressing underlying factors – Managing issues such as poorly controlled diabetes, hormonal imbalances, or potential reinfection from a sexual partner can support long-term resolution and help prevent recurrence.
Antifungal cream used to treat vaginal yeast infections in Singapore.

Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your medical history, frequency of infections, and specific symptoms.

Vaginal Yeast Infection Diagnosis & Treatment Cost

At ATA Medical, we offer diagnosis and treatment for vaginal yeast infections, along with other women’s health services.

Test / Treatment Test Type Price*
Consultation From $38.15
Testing
DNA Probe/Multiplex Real Time PCR for Vaginitis
Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida albicans and Trichomonas vaginalis
Swab $147.15
Basic Female Genital Screen (5 tests)
Chlamydia PCR, Gonorrhoea PCR, Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosis, Trichomonas
Swab $268
Enhanced Female Genital Screen (9 tests)
Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosis
Swab $348
Complete Female STD Screen (15 tests)
HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosisurealyticum, Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosis
Blood + Swab $478
Treatment
Topical Antifungal Cream From $10.90
Pessary Antifungal Cream $59.95 for full course of treatment
Oral Antifungal Medication From $1.41 per tab
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

We offer confidential testing and treatment for STIs, available either as individual tests or part of comprehensive screening packages. To support your comfort and preferences, both male and female doctors are available upon request.

For details on available tests, treatment options, or to schedule an appointment, please contact us directly.

How Can You Prevent Vaginal Yeast Infections?

You can lower your risk of developing vaginal yeast infections by adopting habits that support vaginal health and help maintain a balanced microbial environment.

Preventive measures can include:

  • Maintaining good personal hygiene without excessive washing or the use of harsh products.
  • Avoiding scented hygiene products and douches, which can disrupt the natural balance in the vagina.
  • Wearing breathable, cotton, and looser-fitting clothing to reduce heat and moisture retention.
  • Changing out of damp exercise clothing or swimwear promptly to minimise moisture build-up.
  • Using antibiotics only when necessary and completing the prescribed course.
  • Managing blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should consult a doctor if:

  • You suspect a vaginal infection or are experiencing symptoms such as foul-smelling discharge, fever, abdominal pain, bleeding unrelated to your period, or pain during intercourse.
  • You have recurrent infections.
  • You experience persistent itching or notice unusual changes in vaginal discharge despite treatment.

A proper diagnosis is important for guiding appropriate treatment, especially since other conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, STIs, or dermatological issues can present with similar symptoms.

Why Choose ATA Medical?

ATA Medical – One-Stop Health Screening Clinic With X-ray, CT Scan, Mammogram and Ultrasound scans.
ATA Medical – One-Stop Health Screening Clinic With X-ray, CT Scan, Mammogram and Ultrasound scans.
ATA Medical Orchard Clinic with Health Screening Nurses and Staff
Orchard Clinic
ATA Medical Tanjong Pagar Clinic with Health Screening Nurses and Staff
Tanjong Pagar Clinic
Patient having a health screening review with Dr Jana Lim of ATA Medical
Health Screening Review with Dr Jana Lim
Female patient undergoing ultrasound scan procedure at ATA Medical Clinic.
Mammograms & Ultrasound Scans with Female Staff
Female patient getting ready to undergo X-Ray procedure with a male staff assisting with the preparations.
One-Stop Clinic with X-Ray Facilities
Dr Leonard Leng of ATA Medical having a consultation session with a male patient.
Consultation About Men or Female Health With a Doctor of Your Choice

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At ATA Medical, we strive to make a meaningful impact on every patient's health. With over 120,000 patients served, we are dedicated to fostering trust and enhancing well-being across our community.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The main cause of a yeast infection is an overgrowth of Candida, a fungus that normally exists in small amounts in the vagina. This overgrowth can occur when the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina is disrupted by factors such as antibiotic use, hormonal changes, or poorly controlled diabetes. While Candida is usually harmless, certain conditions can allow it to multiply and cause infection.
A vaginal yeast infection is typically treated with antifungal medications that are applied inside the vagina or taken orally, depending on the severity and frequency of symptoms. Managing contributing factors such as high blood sugar, recent antibiotic use, hormonal changes, use of scented hygiene products, or wearing tight, non-breathable clothing can also support recovery and reduce recurrence. Consulting a doctor can help determine if further evaluation or a more specific treatment is needed.
A mild yeast infection may resolve on its own, but this is not guaranteed and symptoms may worsen or persist without treatment. In many cases, antifungal medication is needed to clear the infection and relieve discomfort. Delaying treatment can also lead to complications or misdiagnosis. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms or suspect an infection, it is best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Yeast infections cannot be flushed out through detoxes or increased fluid intake, as they require targeted antifungal treatment to resolve. Staying hydrated and maintaining vaginal hygiene may support general health but do not directly eliminate Candida overgrowth. Effective treatment usually involves topical or oral antifungal medication. It is advisable to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment if you are experiencing symptoms or suspect a yeast infection.
Shaving does not directly cause a yeast infection, but it may irritate the skin or disrupt the natural barrier of the vulva, potentially contributing to infection risk. Using non-breathable clothing or harsh products on recently shaved skin may further increase susceptibility. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding scented products after shaving can help minimise irritation.
A man can potentially contribute to the recurrence of a yeast infection, especially if he carries Candida on the skin or develops a yeast infection himself. While vaginal yeast infections are not classified as sexually transmitted infections, transmission between partners is possible in some cases. If symptoms repeatedly follow sexual activity, consulting a doctor can help determine if partner treatment or further evaluation is needed.
You should not wash out a yeast infection using douches or internal cleansing, as this can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina and may worsen irritation. Gentle cleaning of the external area is sufficient, and harsh or scented products should be avoided. Effective treatment often involves antifungal medication. It is advisable to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment and guidance on managing or preventing future infections.
A mild yeast infection may resolve without treatment, but many cases require antifungal medication to fully clear symptoms and prevent recurrence. Self-resolution is less likely when symptoms are moderate to severe, or when underlying factors such as antibiotic use or diabetes are present. It is advisable to consult a doctor if symptoms persist or if this is your first suspected infection, to ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate care.
To prevent a vaginal yeast infection, maintain good hygiene, avoid scented products and douches, wear breathable cotton underwear, and change out of damp clothing promptly. Managing blood sugar levels and using antibiotics only when needed also reduces risk. These steps help support a balanced vaginal environment and lower the likelihood of fungal overgrowth.
There is no drink that directly cures vaginal yeast infections. While water and a balanced diet support general health, antifungal medications are often required to treat the infection. It is advisable to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment rather than relying on dietary remedies alone.
A yeast infection may worsen with the use of scented hygiene products, tight clothing, douching, or incomplete antifungal treatment. High blood sugar, antibiotic use, or sexual activity may also contribute to prolonged or recurring symptoms. Avoiding irritants and addressing underlying factors can help improve outcomes. It is advisable to consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
A yeast infection typically causes itching, thick white discharge, and vaginal discomfort, but these symptoms can overlap with other conditions. Confirming the diagnosis often requires a pelvic exam or lab test to rule out bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections. Consulting a doctor is the most reliable way to determine whether your symptoms are due to a yeast infection.
Drinking water supports overall health but does not treat or eliminate a yeast infection. Hydration may help flush out waste and maintain general wellbeing, but antifungal medications are often needed to clear the infection. It is advisable to consult a doctor if you suspect a yeast infection, especially if symptoms do not improve with basic care.
To soothe a yeast infection quickly, applying an antifungal cream can help relieve itching and irritation. Wearing loose, breathable clothing and avoiding scented products may further reduce discomfort. However, fast relief depends on proper diagnosis and timely treatment. Consulting a doctor can help determine the most suitable approach for your condition and ensure appropriate management.