Treatment of sexual partners is not typically recommended; it's not clear if yeast infections are transmitted sexually. However, if a male sex partner does show symptoms of Candida balanitis — redness, irritation and/or itching at the tip of the penis — he may need to be treated with an antifungal cream or ointment.

For best results, it's advisable not to have vaginal intercourse while using medications to treat a yeast infection, as your body needs a chance to completely heal and you don't want to take the chance of transmitting the infection to your partner.

Medications cure 80 to 90 percent of vaginal yeast infections within two weeks or less, often within a few days.

Some women prefer home remedies to antifungal medication. Yogurt containing lactobacillus cultures, applied with an applicator or as a douche, is one such treatment. The stamp, "contains live cultures," on the yogurt container indicates that it contains lactobacillus cultures. Drinking cranberry juice may also help prevent the occurrence of yeast infections and aid in their treatment.

Medical experts are still trying to determine the most effective way to treat recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). Currently, most health care professionals treat RVVC with two weeks of intensive medication, followed by up to six months of a lower maintenance dose. Your health care professional may recommend treating your partner if you experience RVVC, since researchers are not clear what causes RVVC.

Remember, don't douche because douching alters the normal bacterial balance in the vagina.

Copyright 2003
National Women's Health Resource Center Inc. (NWHRC).