Online Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) Treatment in Tennessee for Adults

Vaginal itching, thick white discharge, and vulvar irritation are hallmark signs of a yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis). Most uncomplicated yeast infections in otherwise healthy, nonpregnant adults can be safely evaluated and treated through telehealth. Our board-certified MDs use guideline-based criteria to confirm when symptoms are consistent with an uncomplicated yeast infection and prescribe antifungal treatment when appropriate, while screening for conditions that may mimic yeast infections and require different management.

Board-certified MD every visit (no mid-levels)
$49 flat-fee video visit, adults in Tennessee
No insurance required; HSA/FSA friendly
Available in 35+ states, including Tennessee
Guideline-based yeast infection evaluation and treatment

Book a Visit View All Adult Conditions →

What Is a Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis)?

A yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis) occurs when the naturally present fungus Candida, most commonly Candida albicans, overgrows in the vaginal area. This is one of the most common gynecologic conditions, affecting up to 75% of women at some point in their lives (CDC). Typical symptoms include vaginal and vulvar itching, thick white "cottage cheese-like" discharge, burning, redness, and discomfort during urination or intercourse.

TeleDirectMD focuses on uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis in nonpregnant adults. During a secure video visit, the MD reviews your symptoms, screens for features of complicated infection (recurrent episodes, severe symptoms, non-albicans species risk, pregnancy, immunosuppression), and determines whether over-the-counter treatment, prescription antifungal therapy, or in-person evaluation with testing is most appropriate.

Symptoms and Red Flags for Adult Yeast Infections

The table below summarizes common yeast infection symptoms, what they may suggest, and whether they are usually appropriate for telehealth vs when urgent in-person or emergency evaluation is needed.

Symptom	What it suggests	Telehealth appropriate?	Red flag requiring urgent in-person or ER care
Vaginal and vulvar itching	Most common symptom of vulvovaginal candidiasis	Yes, if mild to moderate in an otherwise healthy nonpregnant adult	Severe itching with skin breakdown, open sores, or spreading rash beyond the vulvar area
Thick white "cottage cheese" discharge without strong odor	Classic finding in yeast infection	Yes, typical yeast infection presentation	Foul-smelling discharge, gray-green color, or frothy texture (suggests BV or STI instead)
Vulvar redness, swelling, or soreness	Inflammation from candidal overgrowth	Yes, if localized and without severe skin breakdown	Severe swelling making urination difficult, extensive skin breakdown, or fever with vulvar symptoms
Burning with urination (external)	Urine irritating inflamed vulvar tissue (external dysuria)	Yes, when associated with other yeast infection symptoms and no internal burning or frequency	Internal burning with urinary frequency and urgency (may be UTI — different treatment needed)
Pain during intercourse	Inflammation and irritation of vaginal tissue	Yes, when part of a typical yeast infection pattern	Deep pelvic pain, fever, or abnormal bleeding (may suggest PID or other condition)
Recurrent infections (4 or more per year)	Possible complicated or recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis	MD can discuss initial management but may recommend in-person testing	Recurrent symptoms unresponsive to treatment need in-person culture and evaluation
Symptoms during pregnancy	Yeast infections are more common in pregnancy but treatment differs	Telehealth can provide initial guidance but pregnancy often requires in-person management	Any vaginal symptoms in pregnancy with fever, pelvic pain, or bleeding — seek in-person care
Symptoms in patients with diabetes or immunosuppression	Higher risk for complicated or resistant candidal infections	MD will assess — may treat or may recommend in-person testing depending on severity	Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, fever, or signs of spreading infection

Conditions That Can Mimic a Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis)

Several conditions can cause symptoms similar to yeast infection. During your video visit, the MD will ask targeted questions to distinguish among:

Bacterial vaginosis (BV): Thin grayish discharge with fishy odor, less itching. Requires different treatment (antibiotics, not antifungals).
Trichomoniasis: Frothy yellow-green discharge, strong odor, and irritation. Sexually transmitted and requires specific antibiotic treatment.
Contact dermatitis: Vulvar irritation from soaps, detergents, fabric softeners, or hygiene products. No discharge.
Urinary tract infection (UTI): Internal burning with urinary frequency and urgency, less external irritation.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes can cause discharge, irritation, or sores that may overlap with yeast symptoms.
Lichen sclerosus or other dermatologic conditions: Chronic vulvar itching, thinning skin, or color changes requiring specialist evaluation.

If your symptoms suggest a diagnosis that cannot be safely managed by telehealth alone, we will direct you to in-person care in Tennessee and, when possible, outline what to tell the clinic or urgent care to streamline your visit.

When a Tennessee Video Visit Is Appropriate for Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) Symptoms

Many adults in Tennessee with straightforward yeast infection symptoms can be treated safely by an MD via online video visit. The checklists below show when TeleDirectMD is a good fit and when you should go directly to an in-person clinic or emergency department instead.

Video Visit Is Usually Appropriate When

You are an adult (age 18 or older) and not currently pregnant.
You have vaginal itching, thick white discharge, or vulvar irritation.
You do not have fever, pelvic pain, or foul-smelling discharge.
You have not had 4 or more yeast infections in the past 12 months (or are willing to discuss further evaluation).
You do not have uncontrolled diabetes or severe immunosuppression.
You are able to connect by secure video and describe your symptoms and medical history.

Red Flags Requiring In-Person or ER Care

Fever, chills, or feeling systemically unwell with vaginal symptoms.
Significant pelvic pain or deep abdominal pain (concern for pelvic inflammatory disease).
Foul-smelling discharge, gray or green color, or frothy texture (suggests BV, trichomoniasis, or STI).
Open sores, blisters, or ulcers in the genital area (concern for herpes or other condition).
Vaginal symptoms during pregnancy with pain, bleeding, or fever.
Symptoms not improving or worsening after completing appropriate antifungal treatment.
Four or more episodes per year not yet evaluated with vaginal culture.
New sexual partner with new symptoms (STI screening may be needed).

Telehealth for Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) in Tennessee: What Patients Should Know

Tennessee has a well-developed telehealth framework governed primarily by Tennessee Code Annotated § 63-1-155 and the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners rules (Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0880-02-.16). Tennessee law defines telehealth as the delivery of health-related services via electronic information and telecommunication technologies, including live video conferencing. Physicians practicing telemedicine in Tennessee must hold a full and unrestricted Tennessee medical license and must apply the same standard of care as they would during an in-person encounter.

Tennessee permits establishing a physician-patient relationship through a telemedicine visit without requiring a prior in-person encounter, provided the visit uses real-time audio-video technology that allows the physician to verify the patient's identity and location. HB 2857, passed in recent legislative sessions, removed a previous requirement for an in-person encounter within 16 months, giving patients and providers greater flexibility in maintaining care relationships through telehealth.

Physicians with a full and unrestricted Tennessee medical license may prescribe non-controlled medications electronically following a telehealth evaluation when clinically appropriate. TeleDirectMD is fully licensed to practice in Tennessee and follows all Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners telehealth regulations, including documentation, informed consent, and prescribing standards. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.

Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) in Tennessee: What the Data Shows

Tennessee's overall uninsured rate is approximately 10.1% according to the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (2019–2023 five-year estimates) — above the national average of 8.6%. Among working-age adults aged 19 to 64, the uninsured rate rises to approximately 14.6%. Tennessee has not expanded Medicaid eligibility through a traditional expansion pathway, which contributes to a coverage gap particularly affecting low-income adults who may not qualify for TennCare but cannot afford private insurance.

Access to primary care is a significant challenge across much of the state. According to HRSA data reported by the Tennessee Department of Health, 92 of Tennessee's 95 counties are designated as either whole or partial-county Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) for primary care. Rural counties in East Tennessee, West Tennessee, and the Upper Cumberland region are particularly underserved. The uninsured rate is higher in rural Tennessee counties (10.6%) than in urban counties (9.9%), and residents in these areas may face long drive times to the nearest urgent care or primary care clinic. Telehealth offers a practical way for adults in underserved areas of Tennessee to access timely evaluation and treatment for straightforward conditions without an extended wait or a long drive.

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau ACS (2019–2023 five-year estimates); Sycamore Institute analysis of Census data; Tennessee Department of Health Uninsured Adult Healthcare Safety Net Annual Report 2024; HRSA Health Professional Shortage Area data.

How TeleDirectMD Treats Adult Yeast Infections in Tennessee

During your $49 MD-only video visit, the physician will confirm that your symptoms are consistent with yeast infection, review your medical history, allergies, and current medications, and decide on the most appropriate treatment plan. We practice antibiotic stewardship: prescribing medications when the likelihood of benefit is high, and avoiding unnecessary prescriptions when symptoms suggest a different cause.

Supportive Care

Avoid douching, scented soaps, bubble baths, and perfumed products in the genital area.
Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing that traps moisture.
Change out of wet swimsuits and workout clothing promptly.
Use a cool compress or cool water rinse for temporary itch relief.
Avoid sexual intercourse until symptoms resolve to reduce irritation.
Over-the-counter topical hydrocortisone should be avoided in the vaginal area without physician guidance.

Evidence-Based Treatment

Uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis in nonpregnant adults can be treated with either oral or topical antifungal medications. Current guidelines (CDC STI Treatment Guidelines, 2021) support both approaches as effective for uncomplicated cases. Many patients prefer oral treatment for convenience.

Your TeleDirectMD physician will assess whether your symptoms fit an uncomplicated yeast infection pattern, review your medication list and allergy history, and prescribe the most appropriate antifungal option. For recurrent infections (4 or more per year) or cases that do not respond to standard treatment, the MD may recommend in-person evaluation with vaginal culture to identify the specific Candida species and guide treatment.

Common Medications for Adult Yeast Infections

Medication	Dose (adults)	Duration	When we may use it
Fluconazole (oral)	150 mg by mouth, single dose	1 dose	First-line oral option for uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis in nonpregnant adults; convenient single-dose regimen
Miconazole (OTC vaginal cream or suppository)	Various strengths (2% cream 7-day or 4% cream 3-day or 1200 mg suppository 1-day)	1 to 7 days depending on formulation	Over-the-counter topical option; physician may recommend specific formulation based on symptom severity
Clotrimazole (OTC vaginal cream or suppository)	Various strengths (1% cream 7-day or 2% cream 3-day)	3 to 7 days depending on formulation	Alternative OTC topical option when miconazole is unavailable or not preferred
Terconazole (prescription vaginal cream or suppository)	0.4% cream daily or 0.8% cream daily or 80 mg suppository	3 to 7 days	Prescription topical option sometimes used when OTC azoles are insufficient or for suspected non-albicans species

Final medication choice, dose, and duration are always individualized based on your age, kidney function, allergies, pregnancy status, other health conditions, and current guidelines at the time of your visit. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.

Home Care, Recovery, and Return-to-Work Guidance

Complete the full course of antifungal treatment even if symptoms improve early.
Avoid douching — it disrupts normal vaginal flora and can worsen infections.
Switch to unscented, gentle soap for external washing only.
Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid pantyhose or tight synthetic clothing.
If using topical vaginal medication, use at bedtime for best absorption and comfort.
Contact your physician or seek in-person care if symptoms do not improve within 3 days or worsen despite treatment.

Return-to-Work Considerations

Most adults with yeast infection symptoms can continue their normal activities including work. The condition is not contagious in workplace settings. If significant discomfort interferes with your ability to work, your TeleDirectMD physician can provide a brief work note when medically appropriate. We do not complete FMLA, disability, or long-term workplace accommodation forms.

About TeleDirectMD's Online Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) Care in Tennessee

TeleDirectMD is a physician-led virtual urgent care service providing MD-only video visits for adults in Tennessee and 35+ other states. Each visit is a $49 flat-fee with no insurance required. We focus on conditions that can be safely managed through telehealth, use guideline-based evaluation for yeast infection and other conditions, and prescribe medications only when clinically appropriate. Visits are conducted by secure video, and most prescriptions are sent electronically to your preferred local or mail-order pharmacy within minutes of the visit when indicated. TeleDirectMD is not a replacement for the emergency department; if you have red-flag symptoms or feel severely ill, call 911 or seek in-person care immediately.

Tennessee Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) Telehealth: Frequently Asked Questions

Can TeleDirectMD treat yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis) in Tennessee by video visit?

Yes. TeleDirectMD provides MD-only online video visits for adults located in Tennessee with uncomplicated yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis) symptoms. During the visit, the physician confirms that telehealth is appropriate and can send prescriptions electronically to a Tennessee pharmacy when indicated.

What yeast infection symptoms are appropriate for an online visit?

Vaginal itching, thick white discharge without strong odor, vulvar redness, and mild burning in an otherwise healthy nonpregnant adult are well-suited for a video visit. If you have fever, pelvic pain, foul-smelling discharge, genital sores, or symptoms during pregnancy, you may need in-person evaluation.

Can you prescribe fluconazole (Diflucan) during the video visit?

Yes. If your TeleDirectMD physician determines that your symptoms are consistent with an uncomplicated yeast infection and you have no contraindications, they can prescribe oral fluconazole and send it electronically to your preferred pharmacy. Fluconazole is not prescribed during pregnancy.

How do I know if I have a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Yeast infections typically cause thick white discharge and significant itching, while BV usually presents with thin grayish discharge and a fishy odor with less itching. However, symptoms can overlap. Your MD will ask detailed questions to distinguish between the two, since they require completely different treatments — antifungals for yeast, antibiotics for BV.

Do I need testing for every yeast infection?

Not always. For a first or occasional uncomplicated yeast infection with classic symptoms in a healthy nonpregnant adult, treatment can often be started based on symptom history alone. However, if you have recurrent infections, atypical symptoms, or previous treatment failure, your MD may recommend in-person vaginal culture to identify the specific Candida species and guide treatment.

What if my yeast infections keep coming back?

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (4 or more episodes per year) may require a different treatment strategy, including longer initial treatment courses and maintenance suppressive therapy. We can discuss your history and initial options by video, but persistent recurrence often benefits from in-person evaluation with vaginal culture. Your MD will outline appropriate next steps.

Can men get yeast infections?

Yes, though less commonly. Men can develop candidal balanitis, which causes redness, itching, and irritation on the head of the penis. TeleDirectMD can evaluate these symptoms in adult men by video and prescribe treatment when appropriate.

How much does an online yeast infection visit cost with TeleDirectMD?

Each visit is a $49 flat-fee MD-only video visit. We do not bill insurance, but you may use HSA or FSA funds when allowed. Medication costs are separate and depend on the pharmacy and your coverage.

Is a yeast infection an STI?

No. Yeast infections are caused by overgrowth of Candida fungus that normally lives in the vaginal area. They are not considered sexually transmitted infections, though irritation from sexual activity can sometimes trigger an episode. However, some STIs can cause symptoms that overlap with yeast infections, which is why accurate evaluation matters.

Can I use over-the-counter yeast infection treatment instead of seeing a doctor?

OTC antifungal treatments are effective for many uncomplicated yeast infections. However, if this is your first infection, if symptoms are severe, if you are not sure it is actually a yeast infection, or if OTC treatment has not worked, a physician evaluation helps confirm the diagnosis and ensure you are treating the right condition. Misdiagnosis of BV or an STI as a yeast infection can delay appropriate treatment.

Is TeleDirectMD available throughout Tennessee for yeast infection care?

Yes. TeleDirectMD provides MD-only video visits to adults anywhere in Tennessee — whether you are in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, or a rural area. You simply need a stable internet connection and must be physically located in Tennessee at the time of your visit.

Does Tennessee law allow prescriptions for yeast infections from a telehealth visit?

Yes. Under Tennessee law, physicians with a full and unrestricted Tennessee medical license may prescribe non-controlled medications electronically following a real-time video evaluation when clinically appropriate. TeleDirectMD sends prescriptions, including oral fluconazole when indicated, to your preferred Tennessee pharmacy after your visit.

Do I need to have seen a doctor in person before using TeleDirectMD in Tennessee?

No. Tennessee law allows a physician-patient relationship to be established through a real-time video telemedicine visit without requiring a prior in-person encounter. Your first TeleDirectMD visit can be conducted entirely by secure video.

Related Conditions Often Seen with Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) Symptoms

Many patients with yeast infection also ask about these common conditions. Explore them to see what TeleDirectMD physicians can safely treat by video in 35+ states.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Treatment — BV causes thin discharge and odor that is often confused with yeast infection. Different treatment is required.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment — UTIs and yeast infections can occur together or cause overlapping symptoms. Your MD can evaluate both.

Chlamydia Exposure Evaluation — STIs can mimic vaginal infections. Evaluation helps ensure you receive the correct treatment.

Genital Herpes Treatment — Herpes sores can sometimes be confused with severe yeast infection irritation.

Vaginal Dryness Treatment — Chronic irritation and discomfort may relate to hormonal changes rather than infection.

Ready to See a Doctor Today?

Most visits can be booked same-day. $49 flat fee, no insurance needed. Board-certified MD every visit.

Book Your $49 MD Visit

Medical Disclaimer: This page provides general health information for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. TeleDirectMD does not guarantee a specific diagnosis or prescription as a result of any visit.

Clinical content reviewed by Parth Bhavsar, MD, board-certified family medicine physician. Last reviewed: February 2026.

Sources: CDC STI Treatment Guidelines — Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (2021); ACOG Practice Bulletin on Vaginitis (2020); IDSA Candidiasis Guidelines (2016); AAFP Clinical Guidance on Vaginal Discharge Evaluation.