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Clinical
studies have shown that as many as two-thirds of women misdiagnose themselves
as having a vaginal yeast infection and mistreat themselves accordingly. (6)
Whether talking over the phone or during an office visit, patients must be made
aware of the differences in types of vaginitis as well as the importance of a
proper diagnosis by a healthcare provider.
The following discussion guides can be useful educational tools when
instructing patients on the importance of obtaining a proper diagnosis. You can
access these tools in PDF format to print and share with your patients.
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Think
you have a yeast infection?
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| Symptoms of
vaginal yeast infections can be similar to symptoms of other kinds of vaginal
infections. This sometimes results in women misdiagnosing themselves and
treating themselves with inappropriate over-the-counter medications. The
following table compares the symptoms of yeast infections with two other types
of vaginal infection. (26,30 )
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Based on the
table above, it’s easy to see how women can misdiagnose themselves as having a
vaginal yeast infection. Although the symptoms are similar, the infections
listed above must all be treated differently. That’s why it’s important to see
your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment if you notice any signs of
a vaginal infection.
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The
importance of a proper diagnosis
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Whether it’s
the first time you’ve experienced yeast infection symptoms or you have been
treated for one in the past, here are a few things you should know about
getting an accurate diagnosis from a healthcare professional (6-9):
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•
With proper treatment, most yeast infections can be cured quickly.The best way
to get quick relief is to be properly evaluated by a
healthcare professional. |
| •
Bacterial vaginosis—not yeast infection—is the most common form of vaginitis. |
| •
Infections that can or may have symptoms, like vaginal itching, similar to
those of a yeast infection include bacterial vaginosis and
trichomoniasis—both of which may lead to complications if
left untreated.There are different types of vaginal
infections that require different kinds of treatment. |
•
A proper diagnosis by a healthcare provider is essential for quick relief and
to
avoid any more serious consequences. |
| •
Complications from delayed treatment of certain vaginal infections include: |
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• Pelvic inflammatory disease
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• Endometritis |
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• Urinary tract infections |
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• Infertility |
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• Delivery complications in pregnant women |
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• Increased risk of HIV infection and other STDs |
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•
Recurrent infections that are hard to get rid of can be an early sign of a more
serious condition like HIV or diabetes. |
Print
a copy of this discussion guide in PDF format 
(40k PDF)
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| Application: Answering
questions about using Gynazole·1® |
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For those patients prescribed Gynazole·1, there may be questions regarding
application. The Prescribing Information contains an illustration that guides
patients on how to apply Gynazole·1 via a single-dose, prefilled applicator.
You can also download that diagram here.
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| Print
a copy of this diagram in PDF format
(65k PDF)
|
| |
| Important Gynazole•1 Information |
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