How to identify a yeast infection based on discharge and symptoms

• Yeast infection discharge is usually white with an appearance that resembles cottage cheese.
• The discharge may also have a scent that vaguely smells like bread, because of the yeast.
• It may also come with symptoms like itching, redness, and a burning sensation.

A yeast infection is caused by an overgr

owth of naturally-occurring yeast in the vagina that often causes a white, clumpy, curd-like discharge.

Yeast infections are not contagious, and they're not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) either.

Here's how to identify yeast infection discharge and how you can treat it with oral or topical medications.

What does yeast infection discharge look like?

The discharge from a yeast infection tends to have:

• A white 'cottage cheese' appearance
• A scent that may resemble the smell of bread, since you're smelling the yeast

Keep in mind that about a teaspoon of thick, white discharge is normal at the beginning and end of your cycle. However, if the discharge looks more like curdled milk and is accompanied by itching, that may be a yeast infection.

You may see signs of improvement right after your period, but if the infection hasn't been treated, the discharge will return. Although it may seem like a brand new infection, the discharge might just be a symptom of the original infection that hasn't been treated yet, says Anita Ravi, MD, MPH, family physician at PurpLE Family Health and CEO of PurpLE Health Foundation.

Symptoms of a yeast infection

Aside from discharge, there are other symptoms of yeast infections, such as:

• Vaginal rash
• A burning sensation during intercourse or urination
• Vaginal pain and soreness
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva

Bleeding or a brown or green discharge with a strong odor needs to be checked out by a doctor, since this can be a sign of other health conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis or STIs like trichomoniasis or chlamydia, says Hugh Taylor, MD, chair of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at the Yale School of Medicine and Yale Medicine.

How to treat a yeast infection

Vaginal yeast infections are easily treated by taking one of the following antifungal medications for several days up to a week:

• Miconazole is an over-the-counter medication that comes in the form of a vaginal cream or suppository.
• Terconazole is a prescription medication available as a vaginal cream or suppository.
• Fluconazole is a prescription oral medication that comes in the form of a tablet or suspension. It is not recommended for pregnant individuals because it may harm the fetus.

However, depending on the severity and frequency of yeast infections, you may not need to see a doctor for a prescription.

For example, if you know you're prone to yeast infections and know the symptoms, you can treat yourself at home with one of the OTC treatments.. Some people are particularly prone to yeast infections after taking antibiotics or birth control, says Ravi.

If you're not familiar with yeast infections, it's best to see a doctor. Or if you still have symptoms after the routine home treatment, visit your physician to explore other forms of treatment, such as a longer course of antifungal medication or a multi-dose oral medication.

Insider's takeaways

One of the most recognizable symptoms of vaginal yeast infections is a thick, white vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance. Other symptoms include soreness, rash, itching, and irritation of the vagina and vulva.

If you think you have a yeast infection but aren't positive, talk to your primary care provider to get diagnosed. They can determine the best course of treatment based on the severity and frequency of your yeast infection.

You can reduce the risk of vaginal yeast infections by wearing breathable cotton underwear and avoiding the use of douches.

"Preventing [the overgrowth of] yeast is best done by maintaining a normal vaginal PH," says Taylor. "Do not use cleansers or vaginal products."