Vaginal Yeast Infections (Thrush)

Symptoms of a yeast infection

There are several symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, and some women may get one or more of them. The most common symptoms are:

• Vaginal itching
• Burning
• Redness
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Stinging during urination
• Abnormal discharge

Women who suffer from a yeast infection may have vaginal discharge that is thick and lumpy (like cottage cheese). Usually, the discharge is odorless.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.

Science behind the symptoms

Vaginal yeast infections are usually caused by a type of yeast called Candida. Although there are many different types of Candida, the most common is Candida albicans. This usually harmless organism can be found in the vagina, as well as other places, such as the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and on the skin. When the natural balance of organisms in the vagina is upset, an environment is created that can lead to the overgrowth of Candida.

Reduce the risk

To date, it is uncertain why some women get vaginal yeast infections and others don't. Certain factors may put you at risk for getting a yeast infection. Some of these include:

		Taking antibiotics
		Using oral contraceptives
		Having uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
		Being pregnant
		Wearing tight, restricting, or poorly ventilated clothing (such as a bathing suit or tight workout wear) or nylon underclothing
		Using commercial douches, perfumed toilet paper, or feminine hygiene sprays
		Wiping from back to front after a bowel movement

Several of these risk factors are impossible to avoid, but by raising your awareness of the conditions that you can control, you can help prevent a yeast infection.

How Diflucan works

Diflucan is unique in many ways. It is the only oral pill available for vaginal yeast* infections, so it can be taken anytime, anywhere—unlike creams and suppositories, which normally require you to wait until bedtime. Diflucan works from the inside out, penetrating deep into the vaginal tissue. A single dose of Diflucan remains in the tissue at effective levels for 3 days fighting the infection.

In clinical studies, the most common side effects associated with Diflucan were headache (13%), nausea (7%), and abdominal pain (6%). With Diflucan there is the possibility of an increased risk of side effects compared with creams. To prevent heart-related complications, do not take Diflucan if you are taking Propulsid^®. In rare instances, serious effects on the liver and serious allergic reactions were reported. Do not take Diflucan if you are nursing. If you are pregnant or taking other medications consult your doctor. 

When it works

If you've ever experienced the discomfort of a yeast infection, you know that relief can't come soon enough. You don't need to wait until bedtime to take Diflucan. Once you take it, Diflucan will begin to work and will continue to work over the next several days. You will probably notice some relief of your symptoms within
24 hours. Soon after, symptoms will lessen. For some women, it may take longer than 24 hours for symptom relief to begin and may take as many as 9 days. If your symptoms have not improved within 3 to 5 days, call your doctor or other healthcare professional.