Vaginal yeast infections are a common condition. They arise from an overgrowth of Candida fungus. While symptoms like itching, burning, and unusual discharge are widely recognized, questions often arise about less common occurrences, such as bleeding.
Understanding Bleeding with a Yeast Infection
Light spotting or minor bleeding can sometimes occur with a vaginal yeast infection. This is generally not a common symptom, but it can happen due to the irritation and inflammation the infection causes in the delicate tissues of the vagina and vulva. The inflammatory response makes these tissues more fragile and susceptible to minor damage. This increased fragility means activities like scratching, wiping, or sexual intercourse can result in small tears or abrasions, leading to light bleeding.
The appearance of this bleeding can vary; it might be pink spotting, suggesting fresh blood mixed with discharge, or light brown discharge, indicating older blood. Reddish discharge signifies active or recent bleeding. This type of bleeding is typically light and may appear as spots on underwear or after wiping. If the infection is severe or recurrent, the ongoing inflammation can further weaken the vaginal walls, increasing the likelihood of bleeding.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While light bleeding can sometimes accompany a yeast infection, certain signs warrant immediate medical consultation. Heavy or persistent bleeding, bleeding that occurs outside of your regular menstrual cycle, or bleeding after menopause should always prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. Bleeding accompanied by severe pain, fever, or unusual discharge (like a strong odor or abnormal color) also signals a need for prompt medical evaluation.
It is also advisable to seek professional medical attention if this is your first yeast infection, if you are unsure about the diagnosis, or if your symptoms do not improve after using over-the-counter antifungal treatments. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may take a sample of discharge for laboratory testing to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Other conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections, can present with similar symptoms, including bleeding, and require different treatments.
Treatment and Recovery
Treating a yeast infection typically involves antifungal medications, which are available as over-the-counter options or by prescription. Common forms include vaginal creams, suppositories, or oral tablets, with treatment courses usually ranging from a few days to a week. Completing the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve quickly, is important to ensure the infection is fully resolved and to prevent recurrence.
Successful treatment of the yeast infection often leads to the resolution of any associated mild bleeding. As the inflammation and irritation of the vaginal tissues subside, the likelihood of minor tears or spotting decreases. If symptoms, including bleeding, persist or worsen despite treatment, it is important to follow up with a healthcare provider. They can assess whether the initial diagnosis was accurate, if a different type of antifungal medication is needed, or if another underlying condition is causing the persistent symptoms.