Ask a doctor on the topic of Gynecology

Vaginal yeast infection

January 8, 2014 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ralf Berg

Dear Sir or Madam,

On December 25th, I went to the hospital because I had a tingling and itching sensation in my lower abdomen. The doctor couldn't find anything wrong, as I was on my period. Due to the fact that I had to take antibiotics two weeks prior, it could have been a yeast infection. I treated it with suppositories and cream. My gynecologist has been on vacation and had no available appointments. The kind nurse said that it could still be normal after such a time (since I only took 4 suppositories and just used cream the rest of the time) and prescribed me 6 more suppositories with cream. It's just an unbearable feeling that accompanies me every day and drives me crazy. The so-called doctor's appointment was on January 6, 2014. Can it really last that long, despite following all the instructions? I don't want it to eventually become chronic. Is there anything else I can do and could it still be a yeast infection? I don't want to have to endure this ordeal anymore.

Dr. med. Ralf Berg

Dear patient,

It is understandable that you would like to get rid of this itching. In fact, it could not only be fungi but also other bacteria or protozoa (e.g. Chlamydia).

So what can you do:
If you have a general practitioner, you can visit them and explain the problem of the lack of appointments. In a case like yours, I would additionally prescribe the medication Metronidazole if there is no improvement with just an antifungal treatment. Also, keep in mind that in Chlamydia infections, your partner must be treated as well to prevent reinfection. Since the medication is prescription-only, a doctor's appointment is necessary.

As a self-help measure, you can try vaginal douches or chamomile sitz baths to try to control the inflammation in your vagina. These products are available over the counter at drugstores or pharmacies.

I hope these tips will help you.

Best regards, Dr. R. C. Berg