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Overview
Yeast infections are common.
Antibiotics raise risk.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonFirst infection or recurring.
Causes
Caused by candida yeast.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause thick white discharge. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Vaginal yeast infectionOften treated at home
An overgrowth of yeast that causes itching and thick, white discharge that may look like cottage cheese.
What you can do at home
- Wear cotton underwear.
Medicines
Antifungal creams or pills.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Symptoms
The exam
A pelvic exam.
Tests
- Swab
Prevention
Lower risk.
- Avoid douching
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.