ANNOUNCEMENT: Paya Lebar Branch Closed for Renovation 1 Jul to 4 Aug 2025. Alternate branch @ Potong Pasir.
A yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida. Candida is a type of yeast that naturally lives in the vagina in small amounts.
When the balance of vaginal flora is disrupted, Candida can multiply, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. Although not usually serious, yeast infections can be bothersome and affect quality of life.
Yeast infections can be triggered by several everyday factors that create an environment where yeast growth is stimulated. In fact, certain medications, or lifestyle habits can make the vaginal area more prone to infection.
Some of these causes include:
Typical symptoms of a yeast infection include:
Any woman can develop a yeast infection. However, certain health, hormonal and lifestyle factors may increase the likelihood of recurring or persistent infections.
Some of the groups that may be more prone to developing vaginal thrush are:
While typically not dangerous, yeast infections can have a significant impact on a woman’s physical comfort, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life, especially when left untreated or when they recur frequently.
Although yeast infections and STIs can cause similar symptoms, they are fundamentally different in cause, transmission, and treatment.
FACTORS | YEAST INFECTION | STIS |
Cause | Caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus that naturally lives in the body. It is not sexually transmitted. | Caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Herpes, and are transmitted through sexual contact. |
Transmission | Not considered contagious. It can occur in women who are not sexually active and is usually triggered by factors like antibiotic use, hormonal changes, or high sugar levels. | Spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Some STIs can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. |
Symptoms | Thick white dischargeIrritationItchingRedness | May cause unusual dischargePain during sex or urinationSoresBleeding between periods |
Vaginal yeast infections are typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation and simple diagnostic tests, such as:
Treatment for vaginal yeast infections focuses on relieving symptoms, clearing the infection, and preventing recurrence. This may include:
These are the primary treatment options for uncomplicated yeast infections.
For women who experience 4 or more yeast infections in a year, or whose infections do not respond to first-line treatment, a longer course of antifungal therapy may be prescribed. Investigating and addressing underlying causes is also key.
Some patients benefit from probiotic supplements or pH-balancing vaginal gels that help restore the natural vaginal flora and reduce recurrence. These may be used alongside antifungal treatment or as a preventive measure.
As part of your treatment plan, your doctor may advise changes to hygiene practices, undergarment choices (breathable fabrics), and dietary adjustments, such as reducing excessive sugar intake. These steps help reduce the risk of future episodes.
Vaginal yeast infections are common, treatable and nothing to be embarrassed about. Many women experience them at some point in life. With the right care, relief is within reach. Whether it is your first infection or a recurring issue, you deserve support that is compassionate, respectful and based on sound medical guidance.
At Phoenix Medical Group, we are here to listen, guide you through your options and help you feel like yourself again. Schedule an appointment with us today for a thorough consultation and treatment plan.
No, yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted. However, they can occasionally be triggered or passed between partners, especially with repeated infections.
Yes. Some women may experience recurrent yeast infections, especially if underlying factors like high blood sugar, hormonal changes, or poor hygiene are not addressed.
Some of the steps you can take to prevent yeast infection are:
- Avoid tight-fitting pants and synthetic fabrics
- Change out of wet clothes (like swimsuits) promptly
- Do not use harsh soaps or vaginal douches
- Keep blood sugar under control
- Wear breathable cotton underwear
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
It is possible. During vaginal birth, a baby can develop oral thrush if exposed to Candida in the birth canal. Treating infections during pregnancy helps reduce this risk.
Yeast infections do not directly affect fertility, but frequent infections may affect comfort during intercourse or mask other gynaecological conditions.
Yes. Though less common, men can develop Candida infections on the penis, especially if uncircumcised or if their partner has recurrent infections.
Mild infections may respond to OTC antifungal creams, but it is always best to confirm the diagnosis first, especially if it is your first infection, or if symptoms keep returning.
It is best to wait until the infection has cleared, as sex can worsen symptoms and may pass the yeast to your partner. Using condoms may help reduce this risk.
9:00am to 8:30pm
9:00 am - 4:30 pm
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm (Mon, Thur & Fri)
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm (Temporarily closed on Tues and Wed)
9:00 am - 1:30 pm
2:00 pm - 8:30 pm
60 Paya Lebar Road, #02-09 Paya Lebar Square, Singapore 409051
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
275 Thomson Road,
#01-05 Novena Regency,
Singapore 307645
9:00 am - 2:30 pm
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm (Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri)
9:00 am - 1:30 pm
2:00 pm - 8:30 pm
The Venue Shoppes,
2 Tai Thong Crescent, #01-16,
Singapore 347836
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Mon, Wed & Thu)
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Closed
244M Upper Thomson Rd, Thomson Garden Estate, Singapore 574369
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Mon & Wed)
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
2:00 pm - 9:00 pm
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Closed