Douches For Yeast Infection

Probiotic-based douches for yeast infections, such as YeastGard Advanced, contain lactic acid bacteria typically found in the vagina, making it easy for you to support your microbiome and replenish bacterial numbers after illness or antibiotic use. These good bacteria help slow the growth of fungus and may prevent you from developing a yeast infection or lessen the symptoms. 

Some women are more prone to yeast infections, and it's not entirely clear why. Some known risk factors include diabetes, pregnancy, a weakened immune system and the use of birth control pills or steroid medications. While douches and other products can help prevent fungal infections, see your doctor for further assessment if you experience them frequently. 

Medicated douches containing miconazole or similar antifungal drugs can be highly effective for yeast infections. However, your response can depend on the severity of the condition and how long you've had it, with treatment taking longer for some fungal infections. The specific strain of yeast you have may also be resistant to one type of antifungal treatment, in which case a different drug may be necessary to resolve the infection. 

Another type of medicated douche for yeast infections contains boric acid. These products have a broad antifungal and antibacterial effect that can help treat yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, but they often work best when used with other oral or lotion-based antifungal drugs. Used early, they may help speed up the action of different medications and reduce itchiness and other symptoms sooner. 

Generally, only medicated douches containing boric acid or an over-the-counter/prescription antifungal drug, such as clotrimazole, cure a yeast infection. However, many of the best douches for yeast infections with homeopathic or probiotic-based ingredients can help prevent yeast growth and lessen the irritation the condition causes.  

If your douche doesn't contain an antifungal ingredient or your condition has progressed from early symptoms to a definite yeast infection, it may still be okay to use the product to provide symptomatic relief. Pairing it with a treatment such as Monistat 1-dose yeast infection ovules should help resolve the condition as early as a few days after use for a rapid return to comfort.