This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

What causes a yeast infection?

Yeast infections are usually caused by overgrowth of Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. Factors that can encourage overgrowth include recent antibiotic use, hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control), uncontrolled diabetes, a weakened immune system, and warm, moist environments. Symptoms often start with persistent itching and may include a thick, cottage-cheese–like discharge. Identifying triggers helps guide both immediate treatment and prevention strategies, but diagnosis typically relies on symptom review and, when needed, laboratory testing to confirm Candida.

How is a UTI different?

A UTI (urinary tract infection) is a bacterial infection of the urinary system, most commonly the bladder. Unlike yeast infections, UTIs usually cause painful, frequent urination, strong-smelling or cloudy urine, and lower abdominal pain. Treatment for UTIs involves antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider, whereas yeast infections are treated with antifungal agents. Because symptoms can overlap — for example, pain or burning while urinating — it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis from a clinician to ensure the correct medicine is used for the condition.

Which medicine treats yeast infections?

First-line treatments for uncomplicated vaginal yeast infections include topical azole antifungals (creams, ointments, or vaginal suppositories) and a single-dose oral antifungal pill for some people. Over-the-counter topical products typically contain clotrimazole or miconazole; prescription options may include fluconazole taken orally. For non-vaginal Candida infections, treatment will vary by location and severity and may require a longer course or different antifungal classes. Always follow labeled directions and consult healthcare if symptoms persist beyond the expected treatment window or if you have recurrent infections.

When to contact healthcare or local services?

Seek professional care if symptoms are severe, if this is your first episode, if infections recur frequently, or if you’re pregnant, immunocompromised, or have diabetes. A clinician can confirm the cause, rule out sexually transmitted infections, and prescribe appropriate medicine. Local services that provide evaluation include primary care practices, gynecology clinics, urgent care centers, and sexual health clinics. Timely assessment is important because using the wrong treatment (for example, antifungals for a UTI) can delay relief and allow the actual infection to worsen.

How to prevent urinary tract infection and recurrence?

Preventing recurrence involves addressing risk factors: avoid unnecessary antibiotics, maintain good genital hygiene without douching, wear breathable cotton underwear, and change out of wet clothing promptly. For urinary tract infections, practices such as staying well-hydrated, urinating after intercourse, and following bladder-emptying habits may reduce risk. Some people explore probiotic foods or supplements to support healthy vaginal flora; evidence is mixed, so discuss options with your provider. If you have recurrent infections, your healthcare professional can evaluate for underlying conditions and recommend tailored prevention strategies.

Yeast infection treatment is generally straightforward when properly diagnosed: targeted antifungal medicine for Candida infections and antibiotics for bacterial urinary tract infections. If symptoms are atypical, persistent, or recurrent, medical evaluation is necessary to adjust treatment and investigate underlying causes. Keeping informed about safe treatment options and local healthcare services helps you manage symptoms quickly and reduce the chance of future episodes.

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