How Long Does a Yeast Infection Last Without Medication?

What is a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection is a buildup of yeast in the body, usually in the vagina, which is called vulvovaginal candidiasis or vaginitis. Yeast can multiply in the vaginal area because it is moist and dark and can change pH level easily. For some women, yeast infections will occur during or before the menstrual period 2. If you have recurring yeast infections more than once a month, contact your doctor 2. Otherwise, yeast infections can be cured with over-the-counter and home remedies and do not need treatment from a doctor 2.

Treating a Yeast Infection

A yeast infection can be treated with over-the-counter yeast infection creams like Monistat. Monistat cream is inserted directly into the vagina to prevent the spreading and multiplying of yeast. Yeast infections can also be treated with at-home remedies like dipping yogurt in a tampon and inserting the tampon for one hour, three times a day 2. Eat yogurt regularly and take two acidophilus tablets per day, which you can purchase at your local drugstore or health food store, to promote the growth of good bacteria in your body that will regulate the yeast. Wear white, cotton underwear with no dyes in it and take a shower every day. Drink plenty of water throughout your yeast infection to flush any toxins out of your system.

How Long Does it Last?

Yeast infections will usually not go away without some form of treatment 2. Over-the-counter medications should be used if eating yogurt and placing it in the vagina does not work after two weeks. If after two weeks, an over-the-counter medication does not work, see a doctor for an antibiotic such as Diflucan, which will stop yeast growth. If treated with at-home remedies, a yeast infection will usually go away within two weeks. If you use an over-the-counter cream like Monistat, the yeast infection should go away within a week.