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Answer:While there are over-the-counter (OTC) vaginal antifungal treatments, it is important to talk to your doctor first if you are pregnant, have diabetes, have decreased immunity due to a medical condition or medication, or have recurrent yeast infections. If you have never been diagnosed with a yeast infection by a doctor, consult your healthcare provider before using an OTC yeast infection product to make certain that what you have is indeed a yeast infection and not some other condition requiring different medication.

Symptoms of yeast infections—which are fungal infections that are very common among women—include itching, painful and irritated skin, a cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, and possible pain on urination. Fungal infections commonly occur in people who are using certain antibiotics, have diabetes, have decreased immunity, are sexually active, or who are exposed to moist and humid conditions.

Common OTC brands include Monistat® and Gyne-Lotrimin®. All the creams and suppositories available over the counter are similar (the generics are just as good as the brand). Most of these products are available in one-, three-, or seven-day treatment options. Read the package to see which formula you would prefer. Three-day yeast infection treatments are appropriate. Some women have found they need to repeat the one-day treatment. A seven-day treatment would be best, but most women do not like to use the product for seven full nights.

It is best to talk to a doctor or pharmacist first when using these medications. Be aware that antifungal medications can interact with many common prescription medications such as Coumadin® (or warfarin).

If over-the-counter treatments are not working, your doctor may prescribe a prescription antifungal medication, such as Diflucan® (fluconazole), a one-dose oral tablet. However, oral antifungal treatments are not recommended for pregnant women. Certain prescription vaginal creams and suppositories are available that are similar to the OTC vaginal antifungal treatments.

If the yeast infection does not clear within seven days or if you experience symptoms that are not consistent with a yeast infection, contact your doctor.

Other self-care steps you can take—in addition to medications—include eating yogurt or drinking cranberry juice. Yogurt contains the bacterium Acidophilus, which is a "protective" bacterium commonly found in the vagina that can help reduce the potential for developing yeast infections. Cranberry juice has been shown to help prevent urinary tract infections and, possibly, yeast infections.

For more information on vaginal yeast infections in the Walgreens.com Health Library.

View Walgreens.com yeast infection medications.

View the Walgreens.com Ask a Pharmacist Archives for a list of all commonly asked questions.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment of your medical condition. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of the scientific literature may vary. Walgreens' terms of use and general warranty disclaimer apply to all services provided. If you are in need of immediate medical attention, contact your physician, poison control center or emergency medical professional. If you need to speak with a pharmacist for non-emergency matters, contact your local Walgreens pharmacist or call a Walgreens.com pharmacist toll-free at 1-877-250-5823.