How To Test For Yeast Infection

by Rebecca Wincup

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.

There are two different tests the doctors can administer to check for a yeast infection. The first one is called a vaginal wet mount or a vaginal smear. This will be sent to the lab and once the results are in, they will show if you have more than the normal amount of yeast. Some doctors prefer to do a blood test for yeast infection. Yeast infections can also be related to other health problems so it may require some blood work to rule them out.

Some physicians may conduct a pelvic exam to check for inflammation of the vulvar skin. Any dry areas or white plaques located on the vaginal wall are what the doctor will be looking for during this procedure.

Once test results have confirmed that a yeast infection is present, your physician can give you a prescription that will heal up the infection within a week or so. For recurring infections, your physician may prescribe tablets, creams or suppositories to help resolve the problem.

According to research, a person who has had a yeast infection is more likely to get other sexually transmitted diseases; this is because germs may be able to more easily enter the bloodstream due to vaginal irritation. Although this is rare, women who experience yeast infections and do not respond well to conventional treatment should be checked to find out if something else is causing it. Remember that using antibiotics unnecessarily can lead to a yeast infection.

Some people prefer to try home remedies and consult professional medical help only as the last resort. This is not always the best route to follow. Home remedies for yeast infections are not always effective and are often recommended from anecdotal advice rather than clinical testing. This means it may work for some but not for others which can be counter productive and possibly worsen the situation. With this said, cranberry juice, yogurt, olive leaf extract, grapefruit seed extract, apple cider vinegar or potassium sorbate can alleviate some initial symptoms of yeast infections but they are not able to cure them completely. In order eliminate the underlying cause or causes for yeast infections professional medical assistance should be sought as soon as possible.

Keep in mind that you should refrain from sexual intercourse during your entire course of treatment for yeast infection. There is a very real danger that you could transmit the disease to your partner even if he wears a condom. Some of the creams prescribed for the treatment of yeast infections can damage latex, the material from which condoms are made. As a result, if you engage in sexual contact, you risk both passing on the infection and becoming pregnant.

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Learn more on yeast infection, including a yeast infection natural cure and the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection.