Answered by SecondMedic Expert
General Physician · Infectious Disease
The best remedy for treating a fungal infection near the genital area is to use an antifungal topical cream or ointment. These can be obtained without a prescription from your local pharmacy or online. Common antifungal medications that are effective include miconazole (Monistat), clotrimazole (Mycelex), terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox).
If you have chosen to self-medicate, make sure to follow the instructions on the package label carefully and finish all of the prescribed medications even if symptoms disappear before finishing treatment. If symptoms do not improve after two weeks, seek medical attention as this could be a sign that further testing needs to be done.
To prevent reoccurrence of fungal infections near the genital area, keep skin clean and dry by washing daily with gentle soap and water and drying thoroughly afterward; wear loose clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton which allow air circulation; avoid perfumed products in this area; change out of wet clothes quickly after swimming or bathing; change underwear every day; wear breathable fabrics such as cotton during sexual activity since they absorb sweat better than synthetic materials like nylon; practice safe sex; and reduce stress levels which can weaken immunity.