1. Surprising Benefits of Sex Slideshow Pictures
2. Take the Yeast Infection Quiz
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Medical Author:

Mary L Windle, PharmD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Although vaginal infections may cause unpleasant itching, they should not cause pain. If pain is felt in this area, a healthcare provider should be seen.

Women should see a healthcare provider the first time vaginal yeast infection symptoms occur or if they are unsure if they have a yeast infection. If certain, the condition can be treated with over-the-counter medications. However, if symptoms do not respond to one course of over-the-counter medications, yeast infection may not be the problem. Pregnant women or those with weakened immune systems should contact a doctor before beginning any over-the-counter self-treatment. Women who experience recurrent vaginal yeast infections, or yeast infections that do not clear up with treatment, should immediately contact a healthcare provider for professional diagnosis and treatment. It is called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) if a woman has 4 or more proven episodes per year.

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