Adult Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) Treatment (Vulvovaginal Candidiasis)
Thick, clumpy discharge with intense itching and burning can be a sign of a vaginal yeast infection. TeleDirectMD connects you with a board-certified MD for guideline-based evaluation and, when appropriate, oral or topical antifungal treatment by secure video visit.
- $49 flat-fee visit, no surprise bills
- MD-only care, no mid-level substitutions
- No insurance required, HSA/FSA-friendly
- Available in 25+ states by secure video visit
TeleDirectMD is physician-led virtual urgent care. Every visit is with a real doctor, Parth Bhavsar, MD.
What Is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?
A vaginal yeast infection, also called vulvovaginal candidiasis, is an overgrowth of Candida species in the vagina. It commonly causes intense vulvar itching, burning, redness, and a thick, white, “cottage cheese” discharge. Many adults will experience at least one episode in their lifetime.
In otherwise healthy nonpregnant adults with typical symptoms, yeast infections can often be safely evaluated and treated through telehealth using a careful history and guideline-based criteria. TeleDirectMD focuses on distinguishing yeast from bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, and other causes of vaginal discomfort before recommending treatment.
Symptoms and Red Flags for Yeast Infections
This table highlights typical features of vaginal yeast infections and when symptoms suggest another diagnosis or the need for in-person care.
| Symptom | What It Suggests | Telehealth Appropriate? | Red Flag Requiring In-Person or ER Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thick, white, clumpy discharge | Classic description for yeast infection | Yes, often appropriate for video evaluation | In-person exam if associated with severe pain, bleeding, or systemic illness |
| Intense vulvar itching or burning | Strongly associated with candidiasis or contact irritation | Yes, telehealth can help differentiate likely causes | In-person care if there are open sores, ulcers, or marked swelling |
| Redness and swelling of the vulva | Common with yeast infection and irritant dermatitis | Yes, for mild to moderate symptoms | In-person evaluation if severe pain, spreading redness, or signs of cellulitis |
| Thin gray or white discharge with strong odor | More typical of bacterial vaginosis than yeast | Yes, but may be better classified as BV | In-person exam if discharge is bloody, green, or associated with severe pain |
| New pelvic or lower abdominal pain | Concerning for pelvic inflammatory disease or other pelvic pathology | No, this extends beyond simple yeast infection | Requires in-person urgent evaluation or ER if severe |
| Fever, chills, or feeling very unwell | Not typical of isolated yeast infection | No, telehealth alone is not appropriate | Needs in-person urgent or emergency evaluation |
| Recurrent yeast infections (four or more per year) | May indicate recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis or another underlying issue | Telehealth can address an episode and discuss next steps | In-person follow-up recommended for persistent or frequently recurring cases |
| Pregnancy with suspected yeast infection | Yeast is common in pregnancy but requires careful medication choices | Telehealth can help with counseling and topical options | Obstetric care needed for complex or recurrent symptoms |
| New high-risk sexual exposure | May raise concern for sexually transmitted infections | Telehealth can triage and guide testing | In-person testing is recommended if there is pelvic pain or systemic illness |
Yeast Infection vs BV vs Other Vaginal Conditions
Yeast infection is one of several common causes of vaginal symptoms. TeleDirectMD physicians use targeted questions to distinguish yeast from other conditions so that treatment is appropriate.
- Yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis): Thick, clumpy white discharge, marked itching and burning, redness of the vulva, and sometimes pain with intercourse or urination.
- Bacterial vaginosis: Thin gray or white discharge with a strong, often fishy odor, especially after intercourse, and typically less itching than yeast.
- Sexually transmitted infections: Chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and others can cause discharge, odor, pelvic pain, or bleeding and require specific testing and treatment.
- Normal physiologic discharge: Many people have clear or white discharge that varies during the cycle without itching, odor, or pain and does not require treatment.
- Contact irritation or dermatitis: New soaps, detergents, or hygiene products can cause burning or itching without infection.
During your TeleDirectMD visit, your physician will assess the pattern of your symptoms, prior treatments, recurrence history, and any red flags to decide whether telehealth treatment is appropriate or whether in-person care is a better option.
When a Video Visit Is Appropriate for Yeast Infection Symptoms
When a TeleDirectMD Video Visit Is Appropriate
- Adult nonpregnant patient with itching, burning, or thick white discharge
- Symptoms similar to prior diagnosed yeast infections
- No fever, chills, or severe pelvic pain
- No heavy vaginal bleeding or passing clots
- Comfortable using a nearby pharmacy for medications
- Recurrent infections where prior response to treatment is known
Red Flags Requiring In-Person or ER Care
- Fever, chills, or feeling very unwell
- Moderate to severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Heavy bleeding or concerning clots
- Open sores, ulcers, or rapidly worsening vulvar swelling
- Pregnancy with significant pain, bleeding, or fluid leakage
- Recent high-risk sexual exposure with pelvic pain or systemic symptoms
If any red flag is present, do not rely on virtual care alone. Seek in-person urgent or emergency evaluation promptly.
How TeleDirectMD Treats Vaginal Yeast Infections
Once a yeast infection is the most likely diagnosis, TeleDirectMD physicians use evidence-based antifungal regimens that consider your health history, medication use, and pregnancy status.
Supportive and Preventive Measures
- Keeping the vulvar area clean and dry using unscented, gentle products
- Avoiding douching and fragranced sprays or wipes
- Choosing breathable, cotton underwear and avoiding overly tight clothing
- Reviewing antibiotic use and other risk factors when infections are recurrent
First-Line Antifungal Treatment
For uncomplicated yeast infections in nonpregnant adults, short-course azole antifungals are typically effective. Options may include single-dose oral treatment or multi-day topical treatments, depending on your preferences and medical history.
Pregnancy Considerations
In pregnancy, topical antifungal treatments are preferred, and oral fluconazole is generally avoided. TeleDirectMD can help counsel on symptom recognition and topical options, but ongoing pregnancy care should be coordinated with your obstetric clinician.
Antifungal Stewardship
- Antifungals are reserved for cases where yeast infection is likely based on symptoms and history
- Regimen and duration follow guideline-based recommendations when applicable
- We avoid repeated empirical treatment without reassessing the diagnosis in recurrent cases
- Patients receive guidance on when in-person evaluation is advisable
Common Medications for Vaginal Yeast Infections
Exact treatment is individualized based on your history, other medications, and pregnancy status. The table below shows commonly used options for uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis in nonpregnant adults.
| Medication | Dose | Duration | When It Is Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fluconazole oral tablet | 150 mg by mouth once | Single dose | Common first-line regimen for uncomplicated yeast infection in nonpregnant adults, with adjustments in recurrent cases |
| Topical azole creams or suppositories | Varies by product (for example, once nightly) | 1–7 days | Preferred in pregnancy and an option for patients who prefer local therapy or cannot use oral medication |
| Extended or repeated regimens | Varies by schedule | Weekly or multi-week | Used selectively for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis in coordination with ongoing care |
TeleDirectMD avoids oral fluconazole in pregnancy and does not provide long-term suppressive antifungal regimens without clear follow-up planning. Recurrent or complicated cases may require in-person gynecologic evaluation.
Home Care, Monitoring, and Return to Normal Activities
Many people begin to notice improvement in itching, burning, and discharge within several days of starting appropriate treatment for a yeast infection. Your TeleDirectMD physician will explain what to expect and when to seek additional care.
- Use prescribed or recommended antifungal treatment exactly as directed
- Avoid douching and fragranced products in or around the vagina
- Wear breathable, cotton underwear and avoid staying in damp clothing
- Monitor for worsening pain, new bleeding, or symptoms that do not improve
- Arrange in-person follow-up if yeast infections are frequent or difficult to control
Most people with uncomplicated yeast infections can continue normal daily activities, including work, as they feel able. If discomfort is significant, short-term adjustments may be reasonable. Documentation needs can be discussed during your visit, consistent with TeleDirectMD policies.
TeleDirectMD provides MD-only virtual urgent care for adults through secure video visits at a $49 flat-fee price point, available in 25+ states. We do not prescribe controlled substances and we follow evidence-based guidelines for every condition, including vaginal yeast infections. Some situations require in-person evaluation, testing, or emergency care. Your TeleDirectMD physician will be clear about what telehealth can and cannot safely manage so you know what to expect.
Clinical content reviewed by Parth Bhavsar, MD.
Frequently Asked Questions about Online Yeast Infection Treatment
Can a yeast infection be diagnosed by video visit?
In adults with classic symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis, a careful history is often enough to make a likely diagnosis. TeleDirectMD physicians use guideline-based questions to distinguish yeast from BV, STIs, and other causes of symptoms and will recommend in-person testing when needed.
How is a yeast infection different from BV?
Yeast infections usually cause thick, clumpy discharge with significant itching and burning, while BV more often causes thin gray or white discharge with a strong odor and minimal itching. Treatments are different, so getting the diagnosis right is important before starting medication.
Do I always need medication for a yeast infection?
Many symptomatic yeast infections benefit from antifungal treatment, but not every episode of mild irritation or discharge is due to yeast. TeleDirectMD focuses on identifying when a true yeast infection is likely and avoiding unnecessary medication when another diagnosis is more probable.
How long does it take for yeast infection symptoms to improve?
Itching and burning often begin to improve within a few days of starting appropriate treatment. If symptoms are not improving after completing the regimen, or if they rapidly return, in-person evaluation is recommended to confirm the diagnosis and consider other causes.
Can I use over-the-counter yeast treatments instead of a video visit?
Over-the-counter antifungal products can be effective for typical, infrequent yeast infections. However, if symptoms are severe, keep returning, or do not improve with OTC treatment, a TeleDirectMD visit can help reassess the diagnosis and discuss next steps, including when in-person care is needed.
Is it safe to treat a yeast infection if I might be pregnant?
Pregnancy changes medication choices, and topical antifungals are preferred. TeleDirectMD can help with counseling and topical options, but your obstetric clinician should be involved in ongoing care. Oral fluconazole is generally avoided during pregnancy.
What if I keep getting yeast infections?
Recurrent yeast infections may require additional evaluation for underlying causes, such as diabetes, medication effects, or other factors. TeleDirectMD can address acute episodes and help you understand when referral to in-person gynecologic care is appropriate.
Can I have sex while being treated for a yeast infection?
Many clinicians recommend avoiding intercourse during treatment to reduce discomfort and irritation. Your TeleDirectMD physician can give specific guidance based on your symptoms and treatment plan, including condom use and timing of resuming sexual activity.
Will my partner need treatment if I have a yeast infection?
Partner treatment is not always required for yeast infections, but in some cases it may be discussed, especially if partners have symptoms. Your TeleDirectMD physician can advise based on your specific situation and current guidelines.
What makes TeleDirectMD different for yeast infection care?
TeleDirectMD is MD-only, uses a flat $49 fee, and operates in 25+ states with a focus on evidence-based care and thoughtful use of antifungals. Patients see a board-certified physician who explains the likely diagnosis, the treatment options, and when in-person care is recommended.