Best treatments for vulvovaginal candidiasis

Understanding vulvovaginal candidiasis

A vaginal yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis) is an infection of the vagina and vulva, most often caused by the fungus Candida albicans. This yeast is normally found in small amounts in the vagina, and an infection can develop when its balance is upset. Factors that raise the risk include taking antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes, obesity, and having an illness or taking medicine that weakens the immune system. Typical symptoms include vaginal and vulvar itching and burning, redness and swelling of the vulva, and an abnormal discharge that may be thick and white, sometimes described as resembling cottage cheese. Some people also have pain during intercourse or painful urination. A healthcare provider diagnoses it with a pelvic exam and by examining a sample of vaginal discharge under a microscope (a wet mount and KOH test); a culture may be used if symptoms recur or do not clear. Treatment is with antifungal medicines, available as vaginal creams, ointments, tablets, or suppositories, or as oral tablets. According to MedlinePlus, symptoms most often go away completely with proper treatment, though some infections come back. This is general information, not medical advice.

Frequently asked

What treats vulvovaginal candidiasis?

Our catalog lists 18 products that may treat vulvovaginal candidiasis, based on NIH RxClass (MED-RT “may treat”) drug-classification data — not the verbatim FDA label. They're rated where FDA recall-safety data exists; the current top-rated option is brexafemme.

What is the best-rated treatment for vulvovaginal candidiasis?

By our independent recall-safety rating — not an efficacy measure — brexafemme ranks highest among the products we list for vulvovaginal candidiasis. Always consult a professional.

How are these treatments ranked?

By our independent score, currently based on FDA regulatory recall-safety data (the methodology blends additional sources as they come online). See the How we rate page.

What types of drugs treat vulvovaginal candidiasis?

Treatments for vulvovaginal candidiasis span FDA drug classes including azole antifungal. Compare every option side by side, ranked by independent rating, above.

Treatment associations are derived from NIH RxClass (MED-RT “may treat”) drug-classification data — not the verbatim FDA label. This is general reference, not medical advice — always consult a licensed professional.