Most women use Monistat (miconazole) right before bedtime, and then lay down for the rest of the night while sleeping. For best results, lie down as soon as possible after inserting the product. This can help prevent significant leakage. You may want to wear a deodorant-free pad or panty shield to help protect your clothing as needed.

How long does it take for Monistat to fully absorb?

Monistat comes as a cream and/or suppository that’s inserted inside the vagina. It may start working within one day, but you should definitely feel improvement within 3 days. However, it can take a full 7 days for it to fully treat your infection.

How long does Monistat need to stay inside?

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com, Last updated on April 4, 2023. I used Monistat-1 on Tuesday night for a yeast infection before bed. It’s not Friday and since then, I’ve been having a white, sort of grainy like discharge. It kind of smells sterile or like medicine.

Is it the medicine coming out of me? Is this normal? And should I call my gynecologist? I just had my annual a little over a week ago and had no problems. Tested for STD’s and STI’s, all are negative. I did have bacterial vaginosis (BV) about a month ago and got a prescription for that. I also have a mild burning since having this new discharge.

Help! This is normal. Monistat-1 is a single dose vaginal cream/tablet used to treat a vaginal yeast infection. The cream is designed to stay within the vagina to work without having to reapply every day for seven days. It is normal to get some medicine leakage/discharge.

Why do you have to lay down after Monistat?

How to use MONISTAT® 7-Day Treatment Cream (miconazole nitrate) – MONISTAT® 7-Day Treatment Cream is a low dose yeast infection treatment that comes with a tube of treatment cream and 7 empty applicators. You fill each one right before you use it. This cream can be used inside the vagina or on the skin outside of the vagina, around the vulva to relieve itching. How to insert the cream: Open the tube by unscrewing the cap. Press the sharp point of the cap into the sealed end of the tube to break open the seal. Attach the applicator to the tube of cream by placing “A” end of the applicator firmly onto tube of cream (see illustration in instructions). Do not pull out the applicator plunger. Gently squeeze the cream into the applicator until the applicator is full, which you’ll see when the plunger has been fully pushed out. Separate the applicator from the tube. Do not release pressure on the tube until you have separated it from the filled applicator. After each use, replace the cap and roll up the tube over the empty part from the bottom. Gently insert the applicator into the vagina as far as it will go comfortably, like you would with a tampon. You can do this while lying on your back with your knees bent standing. With one hand holding the applicator barrel, use the other hand to push the plunger all the way in. This will place the cream as far back in the vagina as possible. Then remove both parts of the applicator from the vagina and throw them away—do not flush them in a toilet. Lie down as soon as possible after inserting the cream to help minimize leakage. Repeat these steps each night before bedtime for the next 6 days. You can find and download full instructions here,

Can you shower right after using Monistat?

You may shower in the morning, but it is not required. Monistat 3- day and Monistat 7 -day topical yeast infection treatments (miconazole cream, ointment, ovule or suppositories) are inserted into the vagina before bedtime. Lie down as soon as possible after inserting the product to help reduce leakage.

Can you walk around after inserting Monistat?

Here’s how to help prevent yeast infections –

Change out of wet swimsuits and exercise clothes as soon as you can Avoid scented hygiene products like bubble bath, sprays, pads, and tampons Change tampons and pads often during your period Avoid tight underwear or clothes made of synthetic fibers Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch If you keep getting yeast infections, be sure and talk with your doctor

Answer a few questions and find out what your symptoms mean. You can exercise while you are taking Ovule® formula. All other treatments should be taken at night right before bed, and you can expect some leakage with product use. For best results, lie down as soon as possible after inserting the product.

How do you know when a yeast infection is healing?

A yeast infection in the vaginal canal is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection. Yeast is found naturally in the human body and on the skin. It creates a symptomatic yeast infection when it grows out of control. Vaginal yeast infections are the most frequent, causing itching, redness, discharge, and pain,

• A yeast infection typically needs three to seven days to recover without medication,
• A moderate to a severe yeast infection can take one to two weeks to heal, This number can be reduced with appropriate treatment.

The first thing you will notice is that your vaginal discharge has reverted to its usual consistency and odor, The unpleasant smell will no longer be present, and the discharge is either stopped or reduced considerably. Yeast infections are characterized by recurrent and continued itching,

You will notice that the itching has subsided, eliminating much of the discomfort. Finally, all irritation, inflammation, or redness will go away, The appearance and feel of your genitals will return to normal. Completing the course of your treatment is necessary. The medications will help prevent the future occurrence of the infection.

How Long To Wait For Sex After Yeast Infection Treatment

To avoid another infection in the future, ensure you do not apply scented feminine products, replace tampons and pads frequently, avoid wearing tight underwear, drink plenty of water, and change out of damp swimsuits or gym clothing as soon as possible.

Is it bad to treat a yeast infection if you’re not sure?

Vaginal yeast infections A vaginal yeast infection is an infection of the vagina that causes itching and burning of the vulva, the area around the vagina. Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, Women and girls of all ages can get vaginal yeast infections. Three out of four women will have a yeast infection at some point in their life. Almost half of women have two or more infections. Vaginal yeast infections are rare before puberty and after menopause. Yes. Your risk for yeast infections is higher if:

• You are
• You have and your blood sugar is not under control
• You use a type of hormonal that has higher doses of estrogen
• You or use vaginal sprays
• You recently took antibiotics such as amoxicillin or steroid medicines
• You have a weakened immune system, such as from

The most common symptom of a vaginal yeast infection is extreme itchiness in and around the vagina. Other signs and symptoms include:

• Burning, redness, and swelling of the vagina and the vulva
• Pain when urinating
• Pain during sex
• Soreness
• A thick, white vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese and does not have a bad smell

You may have only a few of these symptoms. They may be mild or severe. Yeast infections are caused by overgrowth of the microscopic fungus Candida. Your vagina may have small amounts of yeast at any given time without causing any symptoms. But when too much yeast grows, you can get an infection.

• Yes. A yeast infection is not considered an STI, because you can get a yeast infection without having sex.
• But you can get a yeast infection from your sexual partner.
• Condoms and may help prevent getting or passing yeast infections through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Yes.
• Seeing your doctor or nurse is the only way to know for sure if you have a yeast infection and not a more serious type of infection.

The signs and symptoms of a yeast infection are a lot like symptoms of other more serious infections, such as STIs and (BV). If left untreated, STIs and BV raise your risk of getting other STIs, including HIV, and can lead to problems getting pregnant.

BV can also lead to problems during pregnancy, such as premature delivery. Your doctor will do a pelvic exam to look for swelling and discharge. Your doctor may also use a cotton swab to take a sample of the discharge from your vagina. A lab technician will look at the sample under a microscope to see whether there is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida that causes a yeast infection.

Yeast infections are usually treated with antifungal medicine. See your doctor or nurse to make sure that you have a vaginal yeast infection and not another type of infection. You can then buy antifungal medicine for yeast infections at a store, without a prescription.

Antifungal medicines come in the form of creams, tablets, ointments, or suppositories that you insert into your vagina. You can apply treatment in one dose or daily for up to seven days, depending on the brand you choose. Your doctor or nurse can also give you a single dose of antifungal medicine taken by mouth, such as fluconazole (floo-CON-uh-zohl).

If you get more than four vaginal yeast infections a year, or if your yeast infection doesn’t go away after using over-the-counter treatment, you may need to take regular doses of antifungal medicine for up to six months. Yes, but always talk with your doctor or nurse before treating yourself for a vaginal yeast infection.

• You may be trying to treat an infection that is not a yeast infection. Studies show that two out of three women who buy yeast infection medicine don’t really have a yeast infection. Instead, they may have an STI or bacterial vaginosis (BV). STIs and BV require different treatments than yeast infections and, if left untreated, can cause serious health problems.
• Using treatment when you do not actually have a yeast infection can cause your body to become resistant to the yeast infection medicine. This can make actual yeast infections harder to treat in the future.
• Some yeast infection medicine may weaken condoms and diaphragms, increasing your chance of getting pregnant or an STI when you have sex. Talk to your doctor or nurse about what is best for you, and always read and follow the directions on the medicine carefully.

During pregnancy, it’s safe to treat a yeast infection with vaginal creams or suppositories that contain miconazole or clotrimazole. Do not take the oral fluconazole tablet to treat a yeast infection during pregnancy. It may cause birth defects. Yes. Yeast infections can happen on your nipples or in your breast (commonly called “thrush”) from breastfeeding.

• Sore nipples that last more than a few days, especially after several weeks of pain-free breastfeeding
• Flaky, shiny, itchy, or cracked nipples
• Deep pink and blistered nipples
• Achy breast
• Shooting pain in the breast during or after feedings

If you have any of these signs or symptoms or think your baby might have thrush in his or her mouth, call your doctor. Learn more about thrush in our section. Maybe. Yeast infections are not STIs. But it is possible to pass yeast infections to your partner during vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

• If your partner is a man, the risk of infection is low. About 15% of men get an itchy rash on the penis if they have unprotected sex with a woman who has a yeast infection. If this happens to your partner, he should see a doctor. Men who haven’t been circumcised and men with diabetes are at higher risk.
• If your partner is a woman, she may be at risk. She should be tested and treated if she has any symptoms.

You can take steps to lower your risk of getting yeast infections:

• Do not douche. removes some of the normal bacteria in the vagina that protects you from infection.
• Do not use scented feminine products, including bubble bath, sprays, pads, and tampons.
• Do not wear tight underwear, pantyhose, pants, or jeans. These can increase body heat and moisture in your genital area.
• Wear underwear with a cotton crotch. Cotton underwear helps keep you dry and doesn’t hold in warmth and moisture.
• Change out of wet swimsuits and workout clothes as soon as you can.
• After using the bathroom, always wipe from front to back.
• Avoid hot tubs and very hot baths.
• If you have diabetes, be sure your blood sugar is under control.

Maybe. Studies suggest that eating eight ounces of yogurt with “live cultures” daily or taking Lactobacillus acidophilus capsules can help prevent infection., But, more research still needs to be done to say for sure if yogurt with Lactobacillus or other probiotics can prevent or treat vaginal yeast infections.

If you think you have a yeast infection, see your doctor or nurse to make sure before taking any over-the-counter medicine. If you get four or more yeast infections in a year, talk to your doctor or nurse. About 5% of women get four or more vaginal yeast infections in one year. This is called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC).

RVVC is more common in women with diabetes or weak immune systems, such as with HIV, but it can also happen in otherwise healthy women. Doctors most often treat RVVC with antifungal medicine for up to six months. Researchers also are studying the,

1. Achkar, J.M., Fries, B.C. (2010)., Clinical Microbiology Reviews; 23(2): 253–273.
2. Ferris, D.G., Nyirjesy, P., Sobel, J.D., Soper, D., Pavletic, A., Litaker, M.S. (2002)., Obstetrics and Gynecology; 99(3): 419–25.
3. Soong, D., Einarson, A. (2009)., Canadian Family Physician; 55(3): 255–256.
4. Hilton, E., Isenberg, H.D., Alperstein, P., France, K., Borenstein, M.T. (1992)., Annals of Internal Medicine; 116(5): 353–7.
5. Hu, H., Merenstein, D.J., Wang, C., Hamilton, P.R., Blackmon, M.L., Chen, H., et al. (2013)., Mycopathologia; 176(3–4): 175–81.

The Office on Women’s Health is grateful for the medical review by:

• Michail S. Lionakis, M.D., Sc.D., Clinical Investigator, Chief, Fungal Pathogenesis Unit, Laboratory of Clinical Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases (NIAID), NIH
• Lance Edwards, M.D., FACOG, Suffolk Obstetrics, Port Jefferson, New York

All material contained on these pages are free of copyright restrictions and maybe copied, reproduced, or duplicated without permission of the Office on Women’s Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Citation of the source is appreciated. Page last updated: February 22, 2021 : Vaginal yeast infections

What happens if you use Monistat without a yeast infection?

Yeast Infection? Or Something Else? Medically Reviewed by on January 25, 2022 Yeast infections can be uncomfortable, but they’re usually not serious. You may have itching or irritation in or around your vagina, as well as a thick, white discharge. In many cases, an antifungal treatment will clear up your symptoms.

• If you’re not sure whether you have a yeast infection or something else, it’s important to see a doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment.
• This is important.
• If you don’t really have a yeast infection, antifungals won’t help you get better.
• They can actually prolong the real problem, because while you’ll think you’re treating the issue, the real cause will continue to develop.

There are several reasons you might have symptoms that are like a yeast infection. Herpes, genital warts and trichomoniasis (trich) can also cause irritation, itchiness, and discharge that has a slight odor. With other, such as gonorrhea, you don’t always have symptoms, but you might experience pain and burning when you pee.

STDs often need a different kind of treatment than a yeast infection. For example, trich isn’t caused by a fungus. It’s caused by bacteria. To treat it, you’ll usually need to take strong antibiotics for a short period of time. This is an infection that’s caused by an overgrowth of, There’s no specific cause for it, but along with redness and itchiness, you might notice discharge that’s gray or white and has a fishy odor.

If you have BV, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics like metronidazole or tinidazole, or vaginally applied creams or gels with metronidazole or clindamycin. Cleaning products can trigger symptoms if you’re allergic to one or more of their ingredients.

Soaps and feminine hygiene products can sometimes do this, as can laundry detergents. Certain can also cause itching and other symptoms. They sometimes require treatment with steroid ointments like hydrocortisone. Small cuts can even feel itchy and irritated while they’re healing. Hemorrhoids may be itchy.

They can affect the area in and around the vagina. too. Typical home treatments are a sitz bath (warm water you sit in to help relieve pain in your bottom or around your private parts) or witch hazel wipes to soothe the symptoms. As you get older, your level of goes down.

This can cause changes in your body, like thinner skin. That can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like itching and discharge. Sometimes, using a vaginal lubricant to reduce friction can help. You may also want to talk to your doctor about taking a small dose of estrogen. © 2022 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

: Yeast Infection? Or Something Else?

Can period flush out yeast infection?

Treating a yeast infection during periods – Yes, your period can clear up the yeast infection as it raises the vaginal pH. That in turn decreases the number of yeast cells. But you can always go for antifungal medications in the form of ointments, creams, or even oral medications. You should not wear tight or dirty underwear. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

1. You can also do the following to treat a yeast infection:
2. • Eat probiotics like yogurt that helps to multiply good bacteria • Change sanitary napkins from time to time to avoid infection and pad rash • Keeping your vagina clean • Hydration helps to flush out toxins and bacteria and maintain pH balance, so drink up • Stop using scented products as they can disrupt the pH level of the vagina and cause irritation
3. • Avoid foods rich in sugar and spice as they facilitate the yeast’s ability to grow in your body

: Can periods flush out a yeast infection?

Can you go in water with Monistat?

Important safety information: –

Monistat 7 suppositories are for vaginal use only. Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you get Monistat 7 suppositories in your eyes, flush with a generous amount of cool water. It is important to use Monistat 7 suppositories for the full course of treatment. Failure to do so may decrease the effectiveness of Monistat 7 suppositories and increase the risk that the fungus will no longer be sensitive to Monistat 7 suppositories and will not be able to be treated by this or certain other antibiotics in the future. If your symptoms do not improve within 3 days, if they last more than 7 days, or if they become worse, stop using Monistat 7 suppositories and contact your health care provider at once. You may have a more serious illness. Do not use Monistat 7 suppositories for itching caused by other conditions. Dry the outside vaginal area completely after showering, bathing, or swimming. Do not go swimming for at least 9 to 12 hours after applying Monistat 7 suppositories. Change out of wet bathing suits or damp workout clothes as soon as possible. Continue using Monistat 7 suppositories even during your menstrual period. Do not use tampons while you are using Monistat 7 suppositories or until all of your symptoms go away. Use unscented pads or pantiliners. Do not have vaginal sexual intercourse while you are using Monistat 7 suppositories. Monistat 7 suppositories may decrease the effectiveness of condoms and diaphragms, increasing the chance of pregnancy or risk of sexually transmitted disease. Do not use tampons, douches, spermicides, or other vaginal products while using Monistat 7 suppositories. Overuse of topical products may worsen your condition. Do not use Monistat 7 suppositories in CHILDREN younger than 12 years of age unless advised to do so by your health care provider. PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant while taking Monistat 7 suppositories, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Monistat 7 suppositories during pregnancy. It is unknown if Monistat 7 suppositories are excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Monistat 7 suppositories, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

How do I know if my Monistat is working?

Treating a Yeast Infection – If you know that it is a yeast infection from past experience and are familiar with the symptoms, you want an effective and convenient medicine – one that works at the site of the infection. Try MONISTAT®, the #1 OTC antifungal.

MONISTAT® comes in 3 doses: highest dose MONISTAT® 1, regular strength MONISTAT® 3, and low dose MONISTAT® 7. Regardless of which product you choose, you should begin to experience some symptom relief after 3 days, and complete relief in 7 days. Highest Dose MONISTAT® 1 may be the perfect solution for busy women with active lifestyles.

This powerful single-dose product is available in the Ovule® form for use day or night and will stay in place during daily activities, even during exercise. Regular Strength MONISTAT® 3 is a great option for women who want a less concentrated treatment that provides consistent treatment and relief at moderate dosage levels.

Is itching worse after inserting Monistat?

Monistat® Safety Guide ANTIFUNGAL SAFETY GUIDE Treatment Products MONISTAT® 1, 3, & 7 should only be used for the treatment of vaginal yeast infections. Safety First If you have never had a vaginal yeast infection before, see your healthcare professional before using any MONISTAT® antifungal product.

Do not use tampons, douches, spermicides or other vaginal products. Do not rely on condoms or diaphragms for contraception and disease prevention, as they may be damaged and fail to prevent pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Do not have vaginal intercourse. Do not scratch the skin outside the vagina. Scratching can cause more irritation and can spread the infection. Be aware that a mild increase in vaginal burning, itching or irritation may occur. Do use during your menstrual period. If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a healthcare professional before use. Tell your healthcare professional about any drugs you are currently taking. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away.

Stop use and ask your healthcare professional if:

Symptoms do not improve in three days. Symptoms last more than seven days. You get a rash or hives, abdominal pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting or foul-smelling vaginal discharge. These may be signs that you have a different kind of vaginal infection. There may be a more serious condition present or you could be experiencing an allergic reaction.

What side effects may occur with MONISTAT® antifungal products?

A mild increase in vaginal burning, itching, irritation or headache may occur when the product is used. Abdominal cramping has also been reported.

Stop use and ask your healthcare professional if you have any of the following symptoms while using MONISTAT® antifungal products:

Abdominal pain Hives Skin rash Severe vaginal burning Vaginal itching Vaginal irritation Vaginal swelling Headache

Warning: It’s important to know that MONISTAT® antifungal products:

Are for vaginal use only. Are not intended to be used by anyone under the age of 12.

Monistat® should not be used without seeing your healthcare professional if you are having vaginal itching and discomfort for the first time. Ask a healthcare professional before use if you have:

Vaginal itching, burning and discomfort for the first time. Lower abdominal, back or shoulder pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting or foul-smelling vaginal discharge. You could have a more serious medical condition. Vaginal yeast infections often (such as once a month or three in six months). You could be pregnant or have a serious underlying cause for your symptoms, including diabetes or a weakened immune system. Been exposed to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that causes AIDS Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are taking the prescription blood-thinning medicine warfarin (i.e., Coumadin), because bleeding or bruising may occur.

What is warfarin? Warfarin is a drug that causes an anticoagulant effect (prevents clotting). It is often used in people at risk for a stroke. Those on warfarin should be continuously monitored. There are many drugs that interact with warfarin to increase or decrease the anticoagulant action.

• If a drug interaction occurs, causing circulatory levels of warfarin to increase, you become at risk for bleeding.
• Why do miconazole nitrate and warfarin interact? The liver metabolizes both drugs, so taking them together may increase the levels of warfarin in the blood.
• Such an interaction with warfarin occurs with many drugs that are metabolized by the liver.

Do warfarin interactions occur with all miconazole nitrate products? Warfarin may interact with all miconazole nitrate products from all suppliers. What are the chances of an interaction with warfarin occurring? The risk in each individual is variable.

You should follow the instructions on the package and consult a healthcare professional before using both products together.* *If you are using MONISTAT® 1-Day Treatment Prefilled Tioconazole Ointment, you do not need to see a healthcare professional about potential interactions with the prescription warfarin because such interactions are not expected.

Does the “Interaction with warfarin” warning appear on all MONISTAT® products? Our company placed the following warning on all topical miconazole nitrate-based MONISTAT® products: Ask a healthcare professional before use if you are taking the prescription blood-thinning medicine warfarin, because bleeding or bruising may occur.* If you have any other questions or need more information about MONISTAT® products, call our STAFFED ANSWER LINE: 1-877-MONISTAT® (1-877-666-4782), between 8:00 A.M.

Should I get Monistat 1 or 3?

Should I use Monistat 1, 3, or 7? – All the Monistat products are considered equally safe and effective. They should all provide some relief from symptoms from a yeast infection within 3 days. The best option for you will depend on your preference and how your body reacts to the medications.

Can you overdo it on Monistat?

What happens if I overdose? – An overdose of miconazole vaginal is unlikely. If you do suspect that a much larger than normal dose has been used or that miconazole vaginal has been ingested, contact an emergency room or a poison control center.

Is it normal to bleed after using Monistat 1?

Genitourinary – Genitourinary side effects have included cramping, pain, and bleeding with the intravaginal use of miconazole.

Why didn t my yeast infection go away after using Monistat?

Antifungal medications, such as fluconazole, can often treat yeast infections. However, medications can take a week to work, and some infections can become resistant, resulting in recurrent symptoms. A yeast infection is a fungal infection that can cause itching and painful burning around the genitals.

1. Yeast infections can affect anyone, but they are more common among women.
2. In fact, around 75% of women will experience at least one yeast infection during their lifetime.
3. Yeast infections typically go away following treatment with antifungal medications.
4. However, some infections may persist or recur despite treatment.

Doctors refer to such infections as chronic. This article outlines the potential causes of chronic yeast infections and provides information on when to see a doctor. It also lists some home remedies and medical treatments for yeast infections. A type of fungus called Candida is responsible for most yeast infections.

These fungi usually live harmlessly on the skin and mucous membranes. However, certain factors can cause them to multiply out of control, causing an infection. Candida thrive in warm, moist places, so the genitals are a common site of infection. Sometimes, the symptoms of a yeast infection may persist or recur despite a person receiving medical treatment.

Below are some reasons that this may happen:

The medication may need more time to work: It can take up to 7 days for an antifungal medication to eradicate a yeast infection. The infection could be treatment resistant : Some yeast may be more resilient to antifungal treatment. This resilient yeast will go on to multiply while the less resilient yeast dies off. This process may result in an infection that is resistant to treatment. The person may have a genetic susceptibility: Familial candidiasis (FC) is an inherited tendency to develop Candida infections. People with FC typically begin experiencing chronic or recurrent yeast infections in early childhood. The person may have a weakened immune system: Certain conditions can weaken the immune system, making a person more susceptible to infections. Some conditions that may increase the likelihood of recurrent yeast infections include:

AIDS severe combined immunodeficiencyautoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophyautosomal dominant hyper-IgE syndrome

It may not be a yeast infection: Many infections can cause itching and burning in and around the vagina. The most common is a type of bacterial infection called bacterial vaginosis, Such infections require antibiotic treatment.

A person who meets any of the following criteria should see their doctor about a yeast infection:

They are experiencing their first yeast infection.The symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily functioning.The symptoms have not completely gone away following 7 days of home treatment.They have had a yeast infection before, but the symptoms are different this time.They experience symptoms that are not consistent with a yeast infection, such as:

pain when urinating blood in the urine fever

They are pregnant or breastfeeding, in which case they should talk to a doctor or midwife before trying home treatments.

In most cases, the primary treatment for a yeast infection is an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medication. These are available in oral form or as topical creams, ointments, or suppositories. An OTC antifungal treatment should begin working within a few days.

• The symptoms should slowly improve over the course of a week.
• Some people may experience recurrent yeast infections, which experts define as more than two yeast infections within a 6-month period.
• People who experience recurrent infections may need to continue taking antifungal medication for up to 6 months.

For people with a history of recurrent yeast infections, it is important to begin treating the infection as soon as it appears. This will help prevent it from getting worse. A person who suspects that they have a yeast infection should see their doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Taking probiotics: Probiotics promote the growth of healthy bacteria. Having an abundance of healthy bacteria may help prevent yeast overgrowth, though there is insufficient research to support this claim. Practicing good vaginal care: Certain vaginal hygiene practices can change the pH of the vagina, making it more susceptible to infections. People should avoid:

douching using perfumed soaps on or near the vagina applying deodorants to the delicate skin of the vulva

Wearing appropriate underwear: Both men and women should avoid wearing tight or restrictive underwear that traps heat close to the skin. They should opt for loose, cotton underwear that allows air to circulate around the genitals. This will help reduce the risk of infections. Keeping the skin of the genitals dry: A person should keep the skin of their genitals dry to prevent the overgrowth of yeast. For example, people should avoid sitting in a wet bathing suit. They should also gently pat themselves dry with a clean towel after taking a bath or shower. Taking OTC medications: Some oral medications contain both a probiotic and a pain reliever. Although these will not cure a yeast infection, they may ease itching and help speed up the healing.

The type of medical treatment a person receives for a yeast infection will depend on whether the infection is sudden (acute) or persistent (chronic).

Can you overdo it on Monistat?

An overdose of miconazole vaginal is unlikely. If you do suspect that a much larger than normal dose has been used or that miconazole vaginal has been ingested, contact an emergency room or a poison control center.

Do you have to finish all 3 days of Monistat?

No you should continue until treatment is finished. Vaginal yeast infections respond best to 7-day treatments and tend to come back if medicine is stopped early.