A vaginal yeast infection is a common type of fungal infection. The typical symptoms are itching, irritation, and burning of the vulva and around the vagina. The risk for vaginal yeast infection increases with use of certain antibiotics, steroid-type medicines, and birth control pills containing estrogen. The risk is also increased by wearing tight undergarments that don’t breathe, in pregnancy, and for those people with diabetes or a weak immune system. Vaginal yeast infections do not usually occur after menopause. 

If you have a vaginal yeast infection, you should see your Rexall Pharmacist for Minor illnesses assessment. Your Rexall Pharmacist will talk to you about your condition and ensure that you do not have any symptoms that would be better treated by a doctor. In addition to discussing treatment options for your vaginal yeast infection, your Rexall Pharmacist will give you tips on how to prevent another infection from happening in the future. Suggestions may include avoiding tight-fitting clothes and opting for loose-fitting cotton underwear and pants when possible, and changing out of a wet bathing suit or damp clothes as soon as possible.

Vaginal yeast infection is treated with antifungal topical creams for vaginal insertion or vaginal inserts containing the antifungal medications clotrimazole or miconazole, or a pill containing the antifungal medication fluconazole that is taken by mouth. Antifungal creams containing either clotrimazole or miconazole can also be used externally along with the vaginally inserted products. Your Rexall Pharmacist may prescribe treatment for you based on your medical circumstances and your personal preferences, if appropriate. You will also be informed about side effects to be aware of and what you should do about them, as well as how long it should take the medication to work. If you have any questions about your condition or your treatment or feel that your medication may be causing side effects, don’t hesitate to ask your Rexall Pharmacist at any time.