The short answer
Mild irritation sometimes settles by itself, but most vaginitis needs treatment. Bacterial vaginosis needs antibiotics, yeast infections need antifungals, and trichomoniasis is an STD that both partners must treat. Because these look similar, a swab test is the reliable way to choose the right medicine.
Waiting can work for minor irritation from a new soap or tight clothing. But the common infections usually persist or return without the right medicine:
- Bacterial vaginosis – 3–7 days of antibiotics
- Yeast infection – usually a single antifungal dose
- Trichomoniasis – about one week of antibiotics for both partners
Symptoms such as yellow discharge can also come from chlamydia or gonorrhea, which can spread upward and cause pelvic inflammatory disease if ignored. If symptoms last more than a few days, recur, or come with pain or fever, get tested.
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Answered by Dami Women's Clinic (다미산부인과의원), Yeouido, Seoul · Dr. Ko Sang-hyun, OB/GYN. General information, not a diagnosis. Emergencies in Korea: call 119. Medical disclaimer · International Patient Center