Survey finds women mistreat yeast infections

Few women go through life having never suffered from the uncomfortable symptoms of a yeast infection.  In fact, nearly 3 in 4 (72 percent) women will experience their first yeast infection before age 25. Furthermore, the incidence of yeast infections is highest among young women ages 18-24, who are new to the category and uncertain about symptoms and available treatment options.  According to a recent survey of women ages 18-24 commissioned by the MONISTAT® Brand, sixty-one percent (61 percent) of young women are unsure about which, if any, over the-counter products can cure a yeast infection.

"Many women don't realize that once they've identified they have a yeast infection they can easily treat it on their own terms," said Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, a board-certified OB/GYN who practices in Beverly Hills, California.  Dr. Lenz, a partner in the MONISTAT® survey, reviewed the full results and offers the following advice to help cure the confusion around yeast infections:

Cure vs. Care

• More than 1/3 (37 percent) of women incorrectly believe that treating the symptoms of a yeast infection is the same as curing the infection.

"I see many women who have unsuccessfully tried to treat their yeast infections," said Dr. Lenz.  "One of the biggest mistakes I see my patients make is using external symptom relief creams, such as Vagisil® to treat a yeast infection.  Vagisil® does not cure the infection; it only temporarily masks or relieves symptoms."

Over-the-Counter Cure

• Thirty-eight percent (38 percent) of women mistakenly believe a yeast infection can only be cured by a doctor's prescription.  

"While there are prescription treatments available, they can sometimes take 24 – 48 hours to start working," said Dr. Lenz. "If you know you have a yeast infection and you are in good health, try an over-the-counter remedy like MONISTAT® right away to cure the infection and treat the symptoms. The brand has a portfolio of products, including 1-, 3- and 7-Day treatments, to suit individual women's needs, which are scientifically proven to be safe and effective."

Know Before You Go

• The majority of women (60 percent) have been unsure whether or not their symptoms were those of a yeast infection.  

"The symptoms of a yeast infection vary greatly among individuals," said Dr. Lenz.  "The classic symptoms – thick, white and lumpy discharge, itching and burning – do not appear for all women.  The important sign is always vaginal discomfort that develops out of the blue.  If you are unsure, especially if you've never had a yeast infection, check with your doctor to make sure your symptoms aren't actually the result of a sexually transmitted disease, bacterial infection or a combination of yeast and bacteria."  

"If your yeast infection does not clear up, contact your doctor," adds Dr. Lenz.  "Once you've treated the infection, long-term, preventative measures, including changes to your diet and lifestyle, can help prevent future infections."