Medical Yeast Infection Treatments: Creams, Pills & Doctor Options

When you are dealing with the itching, burning, and discomfort of a yeast infection, it’s natural to want fast, effective relief.
Medical antifungal treatments are the main way healthcare professionals recommend treating vaginal yeast infections (also called vaginal candidiasis or thrush).

This guide explains the most common medical treatment options – from over-the-counter creams to prescription tablets – and how to use them safely.

Important: Always speak to a doctor, GP, nurse, or pharmacist if this is your first time with symptoms, you’re pregnant, your symptoms are severe, or you have health conditions such as diabetes or a weakened immune system.

Quick Comparison of Medical Yeast Infection Treatments

*Course length varies by product, severity, and your healthcare provider’s advice. Always read the leaflet and follow medical guidance.

How Medical Yeast Infection Treatments Work

Most medical treatments for vaginal yeast infections use medicines called antifungals.
Common active ingredients include:

• Clotrimazole – widely used in creams and vaginal tablets
• Miconazole – another common topical antifungal
• Econazole, fenticonazole, and others – used in some regions/products
• Fluconazole – a commonly prescribed oral tablet in some countries

These medicines work by interfering with the cell walls of the yeast, stopping growth and helping clear the infection.
Your pharmacist or doctor will help you choose an option based on:

• Your symptoms (mild, moderate, severe)
• Whether this is your first infection or a recurrent problem
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding status
• Other health conditions or medications

1. Over-the-Counter Antifungal Creams

Topical antifungal creams are one of the most common treatments for yeast infections.
They are applied to the external vulval area and sometimes inside the vagina using an applicator, depending on the product.

Creams help:

• Relieve itching and burning
• Calm redness and soreness
• Treat the yeast infection at the surface level

Many products are offered as:

• 1-day courses (higher strength)
• 3-day courses
• 7-day courses (often milder, used for pregnancy or sensitive cases as advised)

Condom warning: Some antifungal creams and pessaries can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms.
Read the product leaflet carefully and consider alternative contraception during treatment.

2. Vaginal Pessaries (Tablets or Suppositories)

Vaginal pessaries are small tablets or capsules inserted into the vagina, usually at bedtime.
They dissolve slowly and release antifungal medication directly where it’s needed.

You may find:

• Single-dose pessaries – convenient for uncomplicated infections
• 3-day or 6–7 day courses – sometimes preferred for pregnancy or more sensitive patients (under medical advice)

If you are pregnant or think you might be, always check with a doctor or midwife before using any vaginal product. They may suggest a specific type or course length that is considered safer during pregnancy.

3. Oral Antifungal Tablets (Prescription)

In many countries, doctors prescribe an oral antifungal tablet (commonly fluconazole) for some cases of vaginal candidiasis.
These tablets are swallowed and work systemically inside the body.

Oral antifungals may be considered for:

• Adults with uncomplicated infections who prefer a tablet
• Those who haven’t responded well to topical treatments
• Some recurrent cases, under medical supervision

Important safety notes:

• Not suitable for everyone – they can interact with other medicines.
• Usually not recommended in pregnancy except in specific circumstances as guided by a specialist.
• Always provide your doctor with a full list of medications and health conditions.

4. Treatments for Recurrent or Severe Yeast Infections

If you have recurrent yeast infections (for example, four or more in a year) or very severe symptoms, your doctor might recommend:

• A longer initial course of antifungal therapy
• A maintenance regimen (for example, weekly treatment over several months)
• Testing to confirm the type of yeast and check for rarer strains
• Investigation for underlying issues such as uncontrolled diabetes or immune problems

Sometimes, a combination of:

• Medical antifungal medicines
• Lifestyle changes
• Probiotics and gentle support measures

may be recommended to reduce the risk of future flare-ups.

For more detailed strategies, visit our in-depth guide:
Why Yeast Infections Keep Coming Back — and How to Stop Them.

5. Combination Packs (Cream + Pessary)

Many brands offer combination treatment packs that contain both:

• A vaginal pessary or tablet – to treat the infection internally
• An external cream – to soothe itching and soreness around the vulva

These can be convenient for people who want “all-in-one” symptom and infection management.

6. How Long Does Treatment Take to Work?

Many people start to feel some relief within a few days of starting treatment, especially itching and discomfort.
However, it can take up to 7 days or longer for symptoms to fully settle, depending on:

• The severity of the infection
• The treatment type and course length
• Individual factors like immune health

Always complete the full course recommended in the product leaflet or by your healthcare provider, even if you feel better sooner.
If your symptoms are getting worse, or you feel unwell (fever, pelvic pain, unusual discharge), seek urgent medical advice.

7. Side Effects & Safety Considerations

Like all medicines, antifungal treatments can cause side effects in some people. These may include:

• Mild burning or irritation when the product is first applied
• Headache or nausea (more common with oral tablets)
• Skin rash or allergy (rare – stop and seek medical help if severe)

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You take other regular medicines (including over-the-counter or herbal products)
• You have liver, kidney, or cardiac conditions

They will help you choose the safest and most suitable option.

8. Medical Treatments vs “Natural” Approaches

Medical antifungal treatments are the primary recommended option for clearing an active yeast infection.
Natural approaches can play a supportive role in:

• Soothing symptoms (e.g., sitz baths, gentle moisturisers)
• Long-term balance (e.g., probiotics, lifestyle changes)
• Prevention and overall vaginal health

To learn more about supportive natural strategies, read:
Natural Yeast Infection Treatments That Actually Work.

9. When to See a Doctor Instead of Self-Treating

Over-the-counter treatments are designed for uncomplicated, previously diagnosed yeast infections.
See a doctor, nurse, or sexual health clinic if:

• This is your first time having these symptoms.
• You’re not sure if it’s thrush or something else (e.g., BV or an STI).
• Symptoms don’t improve within a few days of treatment.
• Symptoms keep coming back (four or more times per year).
• You have unusual bleeding, strong odour, or pelvic pain.
• You are pregnant or have a long-term medical condition.

Proper diagnosis ensures you get the right treatment and avoid masking a different condition that needs attention.

FAQs About Medical Yeast Infection Treatments

What is the fastest medical treatment for a yeast infection?

Some single-dose vaginal pessaries and oral tablets are designed for convenience and fast action, but “fastest” depends on your situation and what is safe for you. A pharmacist or doctor can help choose the best option.

Can I use antifungal cream and a pessary at the same time?

Yes, many combination packs are designed this way. The pessary treats the infection internally, while the cream soothes external symptoms. Follow the instructions on the pack or from your healthcare professional.

Is it safe to treat a yeast infection while pregnant?

Treatment in pregnancy should always be guided by a doctor, midwife, or pharmacist. In many cases, longer courses of topical vaginal treatments are preferred, and oral antifungal tablets may not be recommended during pregnancy.

What if my symptoms don’t go away after treatment?

If symptoms persist or return quickly, do not keep re-treating without advice. You should be reviewed by a healthcare professional to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes or resistant strains.

Will medical treatments prevent future infections?

Antifungal treatments clear the current infection but don’t always prevent future episodes. Prevention usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes, managing triggers, and sometimes longer-term plans made with your doctor.
Read more in our guide: How to Prevent Yeast Infections Naturally.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.