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Vaginal Yeast Infections - When To Call a Doctor

Use the following guidelines for seeking medical care when you have vaginal symptoms.

Call your doctor immediately if you:

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Important It is possible that the main title of the report Vulvovaginitis is not the name you expected. Please check the synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and disorder subdivision(s) covered by this report.

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Develop lower abdominal pain and a fever higher than 101°F (38.3°C) along with a vaginal discharge. This may indicate pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Are pregnant and have symptoms of a vaginal infection or a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Call your doctor for an appointment within 1 week if you:

Develop an unusual vaginal discharge, and this is the first time you have had an infection that might be a vaginal yeast infection.
Have unusual vaginal itching.
Have pain during sex or urination.
Develop any other symptoms that may indicate a vaginal infection.
Continue to have symptoms despite home treatment with a nonprescription medicine.
Have symptoms return within 2 months, and you have not been taking antibiotics.

Watchful Waiting

If you are sure your symptoms are caused by a vaginal yeast infection, waiting several days to see if the symptoms clear up on their own is not harmful, especially if you expect your menstrual period within that time. Sometimes a menstrual period will relieve the symptoms of a mild yeast infection. If your symptoms continue, you can use nonprescription medicine. If symptoms continue after treatment, see your doctor.

Who To See

Health professionals who can diagnose and treat a vaginal yeast infection include:

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: June 08, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.