Keep the area clean and dry; wash with mild, unscented soap and water and pat dry thoroughly
Wear loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear
Avoid tight clothing, nylon/spandex underwear, and prolonged dampness
Change out of wet clothes promptly (sweat, swimming, workouts)
Avoid scented pads, sprays, douches, and vaginal washes
If external (vulvar) symptoms: apply a thin layer of OTC antifungal cream (clotrimazole or miconazole) to the affected area as directed
If vaginal symptoms: use OTC antifungal vaginal products (clotrimazole or miconazole) as directed
For oral treatment (prescription): ask a clinician about fluconazole or other antifungals if OTC doesn’t help or if infections are recurrent
Avoid sex or use condoms until symptoms fully resolve, especially if symptoms are new or recurrent
Do not use leftover antibiotics or antifungal medications not intended for yeast
Manage blood sugar if you have diabetes; follow your diabetes plan
If pregnant, have recurrent infections (4+ per year), symptoms keep returning, or symptoms are severe: contact a clinician for testing and treatment
Seek urgent care if you have fever, lower abdominal/pelvic pain, foul-smelling discharge, sores/blisters, significant swelling, or you might have an STI
Get evaluated if it’s your first suspected yeast infection or if symptoms don’t improve within 3 days of OTC treatment or don’t resolve after the course is completed