Your monthly period may be uncomfortable but a yeast infection on top of it? That’s a double whammy no one wants to handle. Itching, burning and unusual discharge can make an already uneasy week feel unbearable.
If you find yourself in this situation, you’re probably wondering, “What’s a girl to do?” The good news is that yeast infections are really common and treatable, even on your period.
We spoke with Monika Herdzik, MD, a family medicine physician with Banner Health, about what causes yeast infections during your period and how to safely treat them.
Can you get a yeast infection during your period?
The short answer is yes, but your period isn’t usually the direct cause.
“A yeast infection is a common condition caused by overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus normally present in the vagina,” Dr. Herdzik said. “Most infections are caused by Candida albicans, though other species can also cause symptoms.”
Vaginal yeast infections are most likely to develop during the luteal phase (second half) of your menstrual cycle, when progesterone and estrogen levels are higher. “This hormonal environment can create conditions that favor yeast growth,” Dr. Herdzik said.
However, you may first notice symptoms during your period because blood flow and low estrogen levels can make irritation or discharge more noticeable.
Many people think menstrual blood causes yeast infection by changing vaginal pH, but that’s not true. A healthy vagina has a pH between 3.5 and 4.5, which helps good bacteria keep yeast in check. Blood has a higher pH, around 7.3, but the small amount passing through isn’t generally enough to trigger an infection. In fact, your period may help flush some yeast out.
[Also read: Should You Be Worried About Your Vaginal pH?]
Other factors that can increase your risk for a yeast infection include:
- Antibiotic use
- Compromised or weak immune system
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Hormone therapy
- Pregnancy
- Spermicide
- Vaginal sponges
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Disruption of your natural microbiome
Recognizing symptoms during your period
Yeast infections during your period can be hard to spot because some symptoms are similar to normal period cramps. But there are important signs to look out for:
- Severe itching or irritation around the outer lips of the vagina
- Tenderness or burning, especially when urinating or having sex
- Thick, white, clumpy discharge that is different from your usual period flow
- Redness and swelling
- Bad smell or odor
Pay attention to what feels different from your typical cycle. This is the best way to catch an infection early.
Treating a yeast infection during your period
“For uncomplicated yeast infections, we often give nonpregnant patients fluconazole pills,” Dr. Herdzik said. “Many patients like taking pills instead of using vaginal treatments and both work equally well.”
Treatment options:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments: suppositories and creams
- Prescription treatments: oral antifungal pills (like fluconazole)
Oral antifungal medicines do not get affected by your period. They can also be easier to use if you find creams or suppositories messy.
If you use creams or suppositories in your vagina, there are some important things to remember:
- Don't use tampons while you are getting this treatment.
- Don't douche, because it can disturb the natural balance of your vagina.
- Spermicide products might stop the medicine from working well.
- Be sure to finish all of your medicine, even if your period starts after you begin treatment.
Tips for managing symptoms on your period
Even with treatment, a few simple self-care tips can help you feel better during your period:
- Change pads often: Don’t let moisture stay against your skin. Try using breathable cotton pads.
- Avoid scented products: Perfumed soaps, pads or wipes can cause more irritation. Use plain, gentle products instead.
- Wear breathable underwear: Cotton allows air to circulate and keeps the area dry.
- Use a cool compress: Putting a cool cloth on the area can reduce itching and burning.
- Skip tight clothing: Avoid jeans or leggings that trap heat and moisture.
Ways to avoid a yeast infection again
Once your infection is gone, taking steps to prevent it from returning can help, especially around your period:
- Keep the area dry and clean: Use gentle, unscented soap when you shower. Pat dry afterwards. Wear breathable cotton underwear.
- Change menstrual products often: This helps reduce warmth and moisture, which yeast likes.
- Manage stress: Stress can make your immune system weaker, making infections more likely.
- Be careful with supplements and home remedies: "Many preventions like oral nystatin, lactobacillus (pill or vaginal), other probiotics and home remedies like garlic have been tried but most don't work well," said Dr. Herdzik.
When to see your health care provider
Most yeast infections can usually be treated at home. However, Dr. Herdzik suggests seeing your health care provider if:
- Your symptoms are very severe, like intense pain, swelling or burning
- Your symptoms do not get better after treatment
- You have yeast infections more than four times a year
- You are not sure if it is a yeast infection
- You are pregnant, have diabetes or a weak immune system
Your provider can confirm what’s wrong, rule out other problems like bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and give you prescription treatment if needed.
Bottom line
Having a yeast infection during your period can be really uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to ruin your week. Medicines like pills or creams that fight yeast are safe to use even when you have your period. Simple self-care steps can also help.
Watch your symptoms. If you start feeling worse or if your symptoms come back, see your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist. They can help you get rid of the infection, feel better and get back to your normal life, even with your period.
