The most definitive method of diagnosing a yeast infection is through a yeast infection test. This requires a visit to your doctor or health care provider. On visiting the doctor, you will be asked about the symptoms, the length of time you’ve had these symptoms and possibly any medications you are taking. Your honesty in answering these questions is critical, particularly if this is not the first time you’ve had this problem. If you’ve had this before, it is very possible you can have it again.

Usually the doctor will perform some tests to determine if the symptoms are indeed caused by a yeast infection. One test would be a vaginal wet mount or a vaginal smear. The physician will obtain a sample to be sent to the lab for a culture. If test results show an unusual amount of yeast, this will confirm that you have a yeast infection. Blood work may also be done to rule out diabetes or any other condition as a cause of the yeast infection.

Some physicians may do a pelvic exam and examine the vulva for signs of inflammation. Dryness or areas of white plaque on the vaginal wall would be evidence of a possible yeast infection.

Your doctor will be able to give you a prescription that will cure a yeast infection in around seven days, if the test for yeast infection comes back positive. Depending on what your doctor recommends, you may be able to use tablets, suppositories or creams if it is a recurring yeast infection.

According to medical research results, having a yeast infection increases vulnerability to contracting a subsequent sexually transmitted disease. This is because the yeast infection causes vaginal irritability and rawness which can allow additional bacteria or viruses into the body through broken membranes. While this is not common, it can happen, and other causes should be investigated in women who do not respond readily to treatment. One of the reasons for this is unnecessary prolonged antibiotic use.

Some people use home remedies to treat yeast infections because they are a bit embarrassed or do not trust the medical field. Common substances that are used in these remedies include cranberry juice, apple cider vinegar, yogurt, olive leaf and grapefruit seed extracts or potassium sorbate. Much anecdotal evidence suggests that these remedies will be successful in relieving physical discomfort in the short term. However they are unlikely to get to the root of the problem and may only act as a temporary solution. These remedies may actually be harmful if you are suffering from some other condition. Therefore, you should always consult a physician so that a proper diagnosis can be made and the correct treatment can be prescribed.

You should keep in mind that, during the whole time that you are receiving treatment for a yeast infection, there is a danger that you could infect your partner if you have sex, and that you thus should avoid sexual activity. Condoms will not prevent the spread of a yeast infection. Certain creams that are used to fight yeast infections can damage latex condoms, which in turn can lead to spreading the infection to your partner and a potential unwanted pregnancy.