and Managing Yeast Infection Treatment Concerns - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Treatment issues for vulvovaginal candidiasis?


Hello, doctor.
I am the patient who previously consulted you regarding external genital itching without sexual experience.
I later took the time to see an obstetrician-gynecologist, who diagnosed me with candidal vaginitis and sebaceous gland ectopia on the labia majora.
However, since I am studying away from home, I couldn't ask that doctor questions about my treatment in real-time after using the medication.
I have a few questions I would like to ask you:
1.
Regarding the inflammation, the doctor prescribed me clotrimazole cream and antibiotics.
After using them for a week, the itching, redness, and pain have improved, but I still occasionally notice a small amount of yellowish-white, cottage cheese-like discharge, which does not have a strong odor, though it has a slight smell when I sweat during exercise.
Is this normal?
2.
For the sebaceous gland ectopia, the doctor prescribed B-GENCIN CREAM (I apologize for not understanding this; it is the name on my prescription) to apply to the affected area.
After using it for five days, the small bumps that were previously not painful or itchy now have a slight tenderness when touched and have shrunk a bit, but the difference from before seems minimal.
Is this rate of recovery normal, or is it a bit slow?
3.
Since I have no sexual experience, my doctor did not perform an internal examination and only assessed the external appearance.
Although my condition has improved significantly with the medication, I still have discharge.
Could this be a misdiagnosis?
4.
The doctor mentioned that I should return for a follow-up visit when my next menstrual period arrives.
Today, I have finished the oral medication, but I am still applying the cream.
I am worried that stopping the oral medication might lead to incomplete treatment and a recurrence, especially since I still have discharge.
Should I return for a follow-up visit?
Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my questions.
I appreciate your help.

Xi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/05

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


I experienced vulvar itching without any sexual activity.
Later, I took the opportunity to see a gynecologist, who diagnosed me with candidiasis and sebaceous gland ectopia on the labia.
However, since I am studying away from home, I couldn't ask the doctor questions about my condition after starting treatment.
I have a few questions I would like to consult you about:
1.
Regarding the inflammation, the doctor prescribed a topical cream containing clotrimazole and antibiotics.
After using it for a week, the itching, redness, and pain have improved, but I still occasionally notice a small amount of yellowish-white, cottage cheese-like discharge, which does not have a strong odor, though it has a slight smell when I sweat during exercise.
Is this normal?
Answer: Yes, this is normal.
2.
For the sebaceous gland ectopia, the doctor prescribed B-GENCIN CREAM (I apologize for not understanding this; it's the name on my prescription) to apply to the affected area.
After using it for five days, the small bumps that were previously painless and itch-free now have a slight tenderness when touched and have shrunk a bit, but the difference from before seems minimal.
Is this recovery speed normal or a bit slow?
Answer: It is a bit slow.
3.
Since I have no sexual experience, my doctor did not perform an internal examination, only an external inspection.
Although my condition has improved significantly with treatment, I still have some discharge.
Could this be a misdiagnosis?
Answer: No, it would not be a misdiagnosis.
4.
The doctor advised me to return for a follow-up after my next menstrual period.
Today, I have finished the oral medication, but I am still applying the cream.
I am worried that stopping the oral medication might lead to incomplete treatment and a recurrence, especially since I still have discharge.
Should I return for a follow-up?
Answer: Continue to observe.

Reply Date: 2019/10/05

More Info


Understanding and managing yeast infections, particularly vulvovaginal candidiasis, can be a complex process, especially when accompanied by other dermatological conditions like sebaceous gland ectopia. Based on your description, it seems you have been diagnosed with a yeast infection and are experiencing some ongoing symptoms. Let’s address your concerns one by one.

1. Ongoing Symptoms After Treatment: It’s not uncommon to have some residual discharge after treatment for a yeast infection. The "cottage cheese-like" discharge you mentioned can sometimes persist even after the infection is treated, especially if the inflammation is still resolving. The absence of a strong odor is a good sign, as foul-smelling discharge often indicates a secondary infection or other issues. However, if the discharge continues or worsens, or if you experience new symptoms, it’s advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider.

2. Response to Treatment for Sebaceous Gland Ectopia: The use of B-GENCIN CREAM (which may contain gentamicin, a topical antibiotic) for your skin condition is intended to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. The fact that the small bumps have become slightly smaller but are now tender could indicate a normal response to treatment, as inflammation can sometimes cause discomfort. However, if the pain increases or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, or pus), you should consult your doctor. Recovery times can vary based on individual skin types and the severity of the condition.

3. Concerns About Misdiagnosis: Given that your doctor did not perform an internal examination, it’s understandable to worry about the accuracy of the diagnosis. However, yeast infections can often be diagnosed based on symptoms and external examination alone. If your symptoms have improved significantly with treatment, it suggests that the diagnosis was likely correct. If you have concerns about the diagnosis, especially with ongoing symptoms, it may be worth seeking a second opinion or requesting a more thorough examination.

4. Follow-Up and Continuing Treatment: It’s crucial to communicate with your healthcare provider about your concerns regarding the potential for recurrence of the infection. If you feel that the discharge is not resolving or if you have any new symptoms, it would be prudent to return for a follow-up appointment. Your doctor may want to reassess your condition and possibly perform additional tests to ensure that the infection has been fully treated and to rule out any other underlying issues.

In summary, while some residual symptoms can be normal after treatment for a yeast infection, it’s essential to monitor your condition closely. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Maintaining open communication with your doctor is key to effectively managing your health concerns. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, wearing breathable clothing, and avoiding irritants can help prevent future infections. Always prioritize your health and seek medical advice when in doubt.

Similar Q&A

Managing Recurring Yeast Infections: Effective Solutions for Women

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my recurring Candida infections that have been bothering me for over two years. I have seen a gynecologist and used antifungal suppositories, but the inflammation and discomfort return shortly after treatment. What can I do to resolve this ...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the treatment for vaginal candidiasis primarily involves the use of suppositories and topical creams. For patients with drug resistance or recurrent infections, oral medications may also be utilized. The recommended dosage for Diflucan is 150 mg taken as a single dose; how...

[Read More] Managing Recurring Yeast Infections: Effective Solutions for Women


Understanding Candida Treatment: Concerns with Antibiotics and Alternatives

Hello doctor, I visited a physician last week due to a Candida infection and had a follow-up appointment. I took the medication for a total of seven days, but due to my menstrual period, I could only use the suppositories for two days. I was supposed to return for another appoint...


Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss Anonymous: If the doctor confirms that it is a simple Candida infection, then prescribing antifungal medication is certainly sufficient. However, doctors often worry about the possibility of concurrent bacterial or other infections, which is why they may frequently ad...

[Read More] Understanding Candida Treatment: Concerns with Antibiotics and Alternatives


Managing Recurring Yeast Infections: Tips and Treatment Options

I have been troubled by itching in my private area recently. Last Friday, I visited a nearby gynecologist, who diagnosed me with a fungal infection. I was prescribed a 3-day course of oral medication and a topical cream (triple-action). After finishing the medication and applying...


Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Ms. Sandy: If your symptoms do not improve, you should definitely consult your doctor again to determine whether to continue the medication or change the treatment approach. Vaginal infections caused by fungi are characterized by their tendency to recur, and the typical tre...

[Read More] Managing Recurring Yeast Infections: Tips and Treatment Options


Managing Vaginal Fungal Infections: Pain and Treatment Options

I have been to the gynecologist and confirmed that I have a vulvar yeast infection. I am taking oral Isoconazole Nitrate and applying the topical medication prescribed by my doctor, Aflac Cream, but I still experience pain and redness. What should I do? (I have a chocolate cyst.)


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is recommended to return to the hospital for further evaluation and consider changing the medication. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Managing Vaginal Fungal Infections: Pain and Treatment Options


Related FAQ

Yeast Infection

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Candidiasis

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Trichomoniasis

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Folliculitis

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Fungi

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Sexually Transmitted Disease

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Vaginal Inflammation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Antibiotics

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Hymen

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Uti

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)