How can I tell if I have a yeast infection?
- Joella*

A girl usually notices certain things if she has a vaginal yeast infection. She may have itching and irritation in the vagina; swelling and irritation of the vulva (the folds of skin outside the vagina); pain or burning when peeing or having sex; or thick, white vaginal discharge that looks a bit like cottage cheese. Some girls will have several of these symptoms; others may only notice one or two.

It's best to see a doctor if you think you may have a yeast infection, or if you have anything different going on, like changes in your vaginal discharge. Other infections can cause similar symptoms, including some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) if you have ever had sex.

Your doctor can recommend the best treatment for you. If you don't have a family doctor, you can visit a health clinic like Planned Parenthood. If your school has a student health center, you might be able to get checked out there.

Reviewed by: Julia Brown Lancaster, RN
Date reviewed: January 2013

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.