TOP 6 YEAST INFECTION SYMPTOMS IN WOMEN THAT SHOULDN’T BE IGNORED

If you think you may have a yeast infection, getting tested is as simple as a 15-minute visit to the doctor’s office. They swab your vagina and look at the discharge under a microscope; you’ll know before you leave whether or not it’s a yeast infection.

1. YOU FIND COTTAGE CHEESE IN YOUR UNDIES

The most telltale sign of a yeast infection is thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge, which is often described as looking like cottage cheese. It may or may not be accompanied by watery discharge as well. Sounds confusing? This is why it’s so important to know what’s normal for you and your vag. Some women naturally have more vaginal fluids than others so if yours changes suddenly — in color, amount, or odor — it’s time to get it checked out.

2. THE URGE TO SCRATCH YOURSELF (IN PUBLIC!) IS UNBEARABLE

We’re not talking about scratching your head here. If you’ve got a yeast infection, it will be hard to resist sneaking a scratch down there, as your labia will likely feel super itchy.

Don’t do it. Even if you do manage to sneak in a good crotch scratch, it likely won’t satisfy the urge for long and can further irritate your already tender privates.

3. S3X IS MAKING YOU HOT… IN ALL THE WRONG WAYS

A sexy romp should leave you feeling a little flushed afterward, but if you feel a painful heat in your vagina during sex, it could signal a bigger problem. A burning sensation during intercourse, or a constant burning feeling in your vaginal area at any time, is a telltale sign of a yeast infection. This symptom isn’t one you should ignore as it could also be a sign of an STI or bacterial infection, so call your doctor right away, she adds.

4. PEEING IS PROBLEMATIC

You’ve been potty trained since you were a toddler, but if you find yourself avoiding using the bathroom because it hurts to pee, you’ve likely got a much more adult problem. Pain during urination is one of the signs of not only yeast infections but also urinary tract infections and some sexually transmitted diseases. If this is your main symptom, get it checked by your doctor asap, she says.

5. YOUR LIPS ARE RED AND SWOLLEN

Not the lips on your face… If your outer labia and genitals look visibly red or swollen — even if you have no other symptoms — it can indicate a yeast infection.

6. YOU’RE ALL KINDS OF CRAMPY

Pain in your pelvis or lower abdomen is another symptom of a yeast infection. Pain from an infection won’t get better with rest, and will likely increase in intensity over time.