Yeast infection discharge looks like pieces of toilet paper

• Yeast infection discharge is usually white with an appearance that resembles cottage cheese.
• The discharge may also have a scent that vaguely smells like bread, because of the yeast.
• It may also come with symptoms like itching, redness, and a burning sensation.

A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of naturally-occurring yeast in the vagina that often causes a white, clumpy, curd-like discharge. 

Yeast infections are not contagious, and they're not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) either.

Here's how to identify yeast infection discharge and how you can treat it with oral or topical medications.

The discharge from a yeast infection tends to have:

• A white 'cottage cheese' appearance
• No odor, or a faint scent that may resemble the smell of bread, since you're smelling the yeast

Keep in mind that about a teaspoon of thick, white discharge is normal at the beginning and end of your cycle. However, if the discharge looks more like curdled milk and is accompanied by itching, that may be a yeast infection. 

You may see signs of improvement right after your period, but if the infection hasn't been treated, the discharge will return. Although it may seem like a brand new infection, the discharge might just be a symptom of the original infection that hasn't been treated yet, says Anita Ravi, MD, MPH, family physician at PurpLE Family Health and CEO of PurpLE Health Foundation.

Symptoms of a yeast infection

Aside from discharge, there are other symptoms of yeast infections, such as:

• Vaginal rash
• A burning sensation during intercourse or urination
• Vaginal pain and soreness
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva

Bleeding or a brown or green discharge with a strong odor needs to be checked out by a doctor, says Hugh Taylor, MD, chair of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at the Yale School of Medicine and Yale Medicine. This can be a sign of other health conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis or STIs like trichomoniasis or chlamydia.

How to treat a yeast infection

Vaginal yeast infections are easily treated by taking one of the following antifungal medications for several days up to a week:

• Miconazole is an over-the-counter medication that comes in the form of a vaginal cream or suppository.
• Terconazole is a prescription medication available as a vaginal cream or suppository. 
• Fluconazole is a prescription oral medication that comes in the form of a tablet or suspension. It is not recommended for pregnant individuals because it may harm the fetus.

However, depending on the severity and frequency of yeast infections, you may not need to see a doctor for a prescription. 

For example, if you're prone to yeast infections and know the symptoms, you can treat yourself at home with one of the OTC treatments. Some people know they are particularly prone to yeast infections after taking antibiotics, so they know the medication they need, says Ravi.

If you're not familiar with yeast infections, it's best to see a doctor. Or if you still have symptoms after the routine home treatment, visit your physician to explore other forms of treatment, such as a longer course of antifungal medication or a multi-dose oral medication.

Insider's takeaways

One of the most recognizable symptoms of vaginal yeast infections is a thick, white vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance. Other symptoms include soreness, rash, itching, and irritation of the vagina and vulva.

If you think you have a yeast infection but aren't positive, talk to your primary care provider to get diagnosed. They can determine the best course of treatment based on the severity and frequency of your yeast infection.

You can reduce the risk of vaginal yeast infections by wearing breathable cotton underwear and avoiding the use of douches.

"Preventing [the overgrowth of] yeast is best done by maintaining a normal vaginal PH," says Taylor. "Do not use cleansers or vaginal products."

Carla Delgado

Freelance Reporter, Insider Reviews

Carla is a Filipino freelance health & culture journalist with bylines in Insider, Architectural Digest, Elemental, Observer, and Mental Floss. Outside of writing, she works for local theatre productions as a stage manager and assistant sound operator. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.

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Vaginal Discharge and Itching

Asked for Female, 23 Years

I am getting white pieces of tissue paper like pieces every time I pee. I don't know if it coming along with pee or from the vagina. I have a lot of itching and inflammation in the vulvar area. I have been treated for yeast infection in January. Please suggest some medication for immediate relief.

Answers (3)

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You have vaginal candidiasis A fungal infection Connect for more details and information here and prescription Go to my website www.familygynaec.com For articles on women health Blog section

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Tab candid v6 vaginal insertion daily one at bed time avoid intercourse for 1 wk Candid cream for application in vulvar region Tab candiforce 100 mg daily two for 5 days for both partners

Next Steps

avoid tight inner garments use cotton panties at day time

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Take Tablet Ketoconazole 200 mg twice a day for 5 days followed by twice a week for 6 weeks Take Tablet Levocetrizine twice a day for 5 days Cansoft CL vaginum pessary for 6 days at bedtime when not having periods

Next Steps

To avoid ping pong infection Take partner treatment with Tablet Ketoconazole 200 mg twice a day for 5 days Use Barrier contraception like condom for 3 months

Health Tips

Keep dry Use V-wash or Intiwash for vagina and vulva cleaning after using washroom Use Dermadew soap for taking bath Use cotton panties or no panties for a month

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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

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