What happens after a telemedicine visit for Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis)

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for a yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis) in children or adolescents, you will usually receive advice on treatment and care to help symptoms improve. The healthcare provider may recommend antifungal medications, which can be creams, ointments, or oral pills. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment. You may also get tips on keeping the area clean and dry to prevent irritation and help healing. If symptoms do not get better within a few days or if they worsen, another visit may be needed. Telemedicine can help with education, treatment advice, and follow-up, but some symptoms may require an in-person exam. Always watch for signs of more serious problems and seek urgent care if needed. This guide helps you understand what to expect after your telemedicine visit and how to take care of your child safely at home.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with vaginal symptoms — seek urgent medical care.
• Severe pain, swelling, or redness that spreads beyond the genital area — get prompt in-person evaluation.
• If your child has a weakened immune system or other serious health conditions and symptoms worsen — contact your healthcare provider immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing education about yeast infections and symptoms.
• Recommending over-the-counter or prescription antifungal treatments.
• Monitoring symptom progress and advising on home care.
• Scheduling follow-up visits and answering questions.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or laboratory tests.
• Diagnosing complex or unusual infections.
• Managing severe or spreading infections requiring urgent care.
• Treating cases with complications or underlying health issues needing in-person evaluation.

What to expect right after your telemedicine visit

After your telemedicine appointment, the healthcare provider will usually send a treatment plan. This may include antifungal creams or pills to use. You might also get advice on how to keep the area clean and avoid irritants like scented soaps or tight clothing. The provider may suggest ways to relieve itching and discomfort at home.

How to use prescribed treatments

Follow the instructions given for any medications carefully. Creams or ointments are often applied to the affected area once or twice a day for several days. Oral medications may be given as a single dose or over a few days. Do not stop treatment early, even if symptoms improve, unless your provider tells you to.

When to expect improvement

Symptoms like itching, redness, and discharge often start to improve within a few days of starting treatment. However, it can take up to a week or more for full relief. If symptoms do not improve or get worse after 7 days, contact your healthcare provider again.

Follow-up and monitoring

Your provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine visit or ask you to report how your child is doing. Keep track of any changes in symptoms and share this information. If new symptoms develop, such as fever or pain, seek medical advice promptly.

Preventing future yeast infections

To help prevent yeast infections, keep the genital area clean and dry. Avoid bubble baths, scented soaps, and tight clothing. Encourage wearing cotton underwear and changing out of wet clothes quickly. Good hygiene habits can reduce the chance of infections returning.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms and how long they have lasted.
• List any medications or treatments your child is currently using.
• Prepare to describe any allergies or health conditions your child has.
• Have a quiet, private space with good internet or phone connection for the visit.
• Be ready to answer questions about your child's general health and hygiene habits.

After your tele-visit

• Use prescribed medications exactly as directed by the healthcare provider.
• Keep the affected area clean and dry, avoiding irritants.
• Monitor your child's symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Follow any additional care instructions given during the telemedicine visit.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if red flags appear.

FAQs

Can my child get a yeast infection more than once?

Yes, yeast infections can happen more than once, especially if certain conditions like moisture or irritation continue. Good hygiene and following treatment can help prevent repeat infections.

Is it safe to use over-the-counter creams for my child?

Some over-the-counter antifungal creams may be safe, but it's best to follow your healthcare provider's advice. Using the wrong treatment can sometimes make symptoms worse.

When should I call the doctor again after a telemedicine visit?

If your child's symptoms do not improve after about a week of treatment, if they get worse, or if new symptoms like fever or severe pain develop, you should contact your healthcare provider.

Can boys get yeast infections too?

Yes, boys can also get yeast infections, but vaginal candidiasis specifically affects females. If you have concerns about your child's symptoms, discuss them during your visit.

Sources

1. Vaginal yeast infections — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Vaginal Candidiasis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Yeast Infection (Vaginal Candidiasis) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Vaginal Candidiasis — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms are severe, worsen, or if you have concerns, please seek care from a healthcare professional in person.