How to Get Rid of a Yeast Infection in 24 Hours

Yeast infections (vulvovaginal candidiasis) affect up to 75% of people with vaginas at least once in their lifetime. While complete eradication of a yeast infection may take several days, you can significantly reduce itching, burning, and discharge within 24 hours by following evidence-based treatments and supportive measures.

1. Understand Your Yeast Infection

Common symptoms:

• Itching and irritation around the vulva
• Thick, white “cottage cheese” discharge
• Redness and swelling of vulvar tissues
• Burning during urination or intercourse

When to seek immediate care:

• Fever, chills, or lower abdominal pain
• Unusual or foul-smelling discharge
• First episode over age 40 or after menopause
• Diabetes, pregnancy, or a weakened immune system

If you’re unsure whether you have a yeast infection, consider a free online symptom check to help guide next steps.

2. First-Line Treatments for Rapid Relief

A. Single-Dose Oral Fluconazole

(Clinical practice guideline: Pappas et al., Clin Infect Dis 2016; Sobel et al., Obstet Gynecol 1999)

• Dose: 150 mg taken once by mouth
• Onset of action: Many people report reduced itching and burning within 24 hours
• Advantages:
  • One-time dose
  • No intravaginal application needed
• Considerations:
  • Do not take if nursing an infant under 2 months
  • May interact with other medications (e.g., warfarin, certain antiepileptics)
  • Consult your doctor if you have liver disease

B. Topical Azole Antifungals

(2016 IDSA guideline; Workowski & Bolan, MMWR 2015)

• Common options (available over the counter):
  • Clotrimazole 1% cream (5- to 7-day course)
  • Miconazole 2% cream (3- to 7-day course)
  • Tioconazole 6.5% ointment (single-dose intravaginal)
• How to use:
  • Apply at bedtime for best distribution
  • Follow package instructions precisely
  • Continue therapy for the full recommended duration, even if symptoms improve
• Rapid relief:
  • Many users feel symptom relief within 24 hours of the first application
• Tip: Avoid combining different topical treatments without medical advice

3. Supportive Measures to Speed Recovery

• Wear breathable, loose-fitting cotton underwear
• Avoid tight jeans or synthetic fabrics
• Skip douching, scented soaps, bath oils, and sprays
• Change out of wet swimsuits or workout clothes promptly
• Use a clean, soft towel to pat (not rub) the area dry
• Consider a sitz bath in warm (not hot) water for 10–15 minutes

4. Lifestyle and Home Remedies (Adjunctive)

While not a substitute for antifungal therapy, these may add comfort:

• Cool compresses: Apply a cold pack (wrapped in cloth) to reduce itching
• Probiotics: Limited evidence for prevention; yogurt and supplements generally safe
• Boric acid suppositories: For recurrent infections — discuss with your doctor first
• Diet: No need to avoid sugar strictly, but a balanced diet supports immune health

5. When to Follow Up or Seek Medical Advice

• Symptoms persist beyond 48–72 hours after treatment
• Four or more episodes of yeast infection in one year
• Signs of a different infection: abnormal odor, gray or green discharge
• Severe pain, swelling, or bleeding
• Any symptom that feels life-threatening or causes you serious concern

Speak to a doctor if you experience:

• Fever, chills, or severe pelvic pain
• Worsening symptoms despite correct use of treatment
• Suspicion of an STD (e.g., sores, unusual discharge)

6. Key Takeaways

• You can expect meaningful symptom relief within 24 hours by:
  • Taking a single 150 mg dose of oral fluconazole
  • Applying a one-dose intravaginal azole ointment
• Complete resolution may require the full course of treatment (3–7 days)
• Supportive measures (loose clothing, no douching) help maintain comfort
• Always complete the recommended course, even if you feel better quickly
• Use the free online symptom check if you’re unsure
• Speak to a doctor about any serious, persistent, or recurrent issues

By combining fast-acting antifungal therapy with practical self-care, you can dramatically reduce Yeast Infection symptoms within 24 hours and set the stage for a full recovery. If you have any doubts or complications, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice.