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Sexual Health Yeast Infections
Sexual Health Yeast Infections

Yeast infections and antibiotics: what you should know

PlushCare Content Team
Written by PlushCare Content Team
Alisha-Goodrum
Medically reviewed by Alisha Goodrum, MD
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If you've experienced a yeast infection after taking antibiotics, you're not alone. While antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial infections, they can also disrupt the balance of good bacteria in the body. This disruption can lead to an overgrowth of yeast, especially in the vaginal area, resulting in uncomfortable symptoms like itching, irritation, and discharge.1,3 

 

Yeast infections caused by antibiotics are common, treatable, and often preventable. This guide focuses specifically on how antibiotics contribute to yeast infections and what you can do to avoid them. 

Why do antibiotics sometimes lead to yeast infections?

Antibiotics are prescribed to treat various bacterial infections, but they often affect beneficial bacteria too. In the vaginal area, helpful bacteria like Lactobacillus play a key role in keeping yeast such as Candida under control. When antibiotics reduce these bacteria, yeast can multiply and cause an infection.3,4 

 

This imbalance is more likely with broad-spectrum antibiotics, including but not limited to: 

Amoxicillin Ciprofloxacin Doxycycline

Even a short course of antibiotics can sometimes lead to these side effects. If you notice symptoms like itching or discharge after starting an antibiotic, it's important to speak with a doctor.3 

How can you prevent a yeast infection while taking antibiotics?

Add probiotics to your routine

Probiotics may help restore the balance of good bacteria in your body. Supplements or foods containing lactobacillus strains—such as yogurt with live cultures—can support vaginal health. Consult your doctor before starting probiotics, especially during antibiotic treatment.4 

Practice healthy hygiene habits

Wear cotton underwear, avoid tight-fitting clothing, and change out of wet clothes promptly. These steps can help prevent the warm, moist environment where yeast thrives.1 

Talk to a doctor about preventative treatment

If you often get yeast infections when taking antibiotics, your provider might recommend taking an antifungal medication like fluconazole at the same time. Our doctors can offer guidance and prescribe treatment based on your individual health needs.3 
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How are yeast infections diagnosed?

To determine whether you have a yeast infection, a doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. They may also perform a pelvic exam or test a sample of vaginal discharge to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions like bacterial vaginosis. 6 

Treatment options for antibiotic-related yeast infections

Yeast infection treatment typically includes antifungal medications. These may be: 

 

  • vaginal creams or suppositories containing miconazole or terconazole5 

 

While some treatments are available over the counter, others require a prescription. We make it easy to consult with a licensed provider online and get the care you need. 

3 simple steps to discuss yeast infection treatment

yeast infection treatment
Step 1

Book a yeast infection treatment appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
yeast infection appointment
Step 2

Talk to your clinician regarding your symptoms.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works
Step 3

If prescribed, pick up a prescription for your yeast infection.

Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. If medication is prescribed, it will be sent to your pharmacy of choice.

How pricing works

To request yeast infection treatment and get a prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

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Paying without insurance

Membership

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Visits

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Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

  1. Mayo Clinic. Yeast Infection (Vaginal) – Symptoms and Causes. Accessed on November 25, 2024, at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999. 
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Vaginal Yeast Infection (Thrush): Overview. Accessed on November 26, 2024, at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279452/. 
  3. Medical News Today. Yeast Infection from Antibiotics: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. Accessed on November 27, 2024, at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/yeast-infection-from-antibiotics. 
  4. Healthline. The Link Between Antibiotics and Yeast Infections. Accessed on November 27, 2024, at https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-and-yeast-infections. 
  5. Cleveland Clinic. Vaginal Yeast Infection: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Accessed on November 28, 2024, at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17816-vaginal-yeast-infections. 
  6. Mayo Clinic. Yeast Infection (Vaginal) – Diagnosis and Treatment. Accessed on November 29, 2024, at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20378997.

PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.