Can a Yeast Infection Cause Bumps?

Written by

Jessica Guht

Jessica is a medical writer with an unquenched thirst to discover something new. She believes that medical content should be accessible to everyone and strives to write content that every single person can understand. When Jessica isn’t writing, she can usually be found reading a book with a dog cuddled in her lap. Jessica has a Masters of Engineering degree in Biomedical Engineering.

Medically reviewed by

Amy Dougherty, FNP-BC, AGAC

Amy is a Board Certified Family Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with over 15 years of experience working in Hospital Medicine, Urgent Care and Primary Care practices. Amy graduated Thomas Jefferson University with high distinction earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2008, a Master of Science in Nursing in 2010 and a Post Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care (AGAC) in 2014. She was recognized by the Elite American Nurses Association in 2013 for her dedication, achievements and leadership in the field Nursing. She served as a clinical preceptor for a number of Nurse Practitioner students and enjoys teaching the bright minds of future NPs.

Yes, yeast infections can cause bumps, sores, or blisters in some cases. Bumps from a yeast infection are not a common symptom and they are mostly not a direct symptom of a yeast infection itself but rather a secondary effect due to skin inflammation, irritation, or a rash. 

Bumps during a yeast infection may also be a sign of a more complicated infection or another underlying condition.

Key takeaways:

• A yeast infection may lead to bumps, sores, or blisters in some cases.
• Bumps are not a common symptom of a yeast infection and most likely are caused by other factors such as skin irritation.
• Bumps during a yeast infection may also indicate a more complicated infection or another underlying condition.
• Bumps from a yeast infection look similar to other types of sores.
• If you have bumps due to a yeast infection, they should go away with treatment for the yeast infection.
• If you suspect your bumps have been caused by something other than a yeast infection, it is important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Continue reading to learn more about the connection between yeast infections and bumps.

Table of Contents

• What Is a Yeast Infection?
• Can You Get Bumps From a Yeast Infection?
• What Do Yeast Infection Bumps Look Like?
• How Long Do Yeast Infection Bumps Last?
• How Do You Get Rid of Yeast Bumps?
• What Are Other Symptoms of a Yeast Infection?
• When to See a Doctor?
• How Can DrHouse Help You?

What Is a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a type of infection that affects the vagina. The vagina contains natural bacteria and yeast called candida, which usually co-exist in harmony. If, however, there is an increased amount of candida present, it can lead to an infection.

Yeast infections are very common and can happen in both sexually active and non-sexually active women. Some of the main symptoms of a yeast infection include:

• Vaginal or vulval itching
• A burning sensation during sex or urination
• Vaginal swelling
• Painful sex
• Redness 
• Thick, clumpy vaginal discharge (commonly described as resembling ‘cottage cheese’)

While yeast infections can be uncomfortable, in most cases they’re easily treated, with symptoms easing in a couple of days. More severe cases may need additional treatment from a doctor.

Some of the known causes of yeast infections include:

• Use of antibiotics
• Pregnancy
• Use of hormonal contraceptives 
• Diabetes
• A weakened immune system

However, it’s important to note that a yeast infection can affect anyone, regardless of whether they fall into one of the categories above.

Can You Get Bumps From a Yeast Infection?

In addition to the usual yeast infection symptoms, you can develop bumps and blisters as a result of a yeast infection. This is a less common symptom, but sores and bumps can happen – especially if there is skin irritation or a rash. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, bumps and sores can occur from a yeast infection that has led to severe soreness and itching, as well as from cracks that may have appeared in the affected area.

Developing bumps during a yeast infection may be the sign of a more complicated infection, and you should consult a doctor if you have concerns or your symptoms continue to worsen.

What Do Yeast Infection Bumps Look Like?

Bumps from a yeast infection look similar to other types of sores. They may be mistaken for sores from herpes or another type of rash. They may appear red, raised, or even look like fluid-filled blisters. 

While yeast infection bumps are hard to distinguish from other types of bumps and blisters, you can usually identify them in relation to your other symptoms. As they are usually an additional symptom, they will most likely be present with other symptoms, such as a rash, redness, and irritation.

If you have bumps and sores present without the other symptoms of a yeast infection, you should consult a doctor, as this may be a sign of another condition.

How Long Do Yeast Infection Bumps Last?

A yeast infection typically lasts a week, with symptoms beginning to ease after using treatments such as creams or ointments. The yeast infection bumps should clear after the rest of the symptoms have eased.

Yeast infection bumps can cause itching, and if they become scratched and irritated, they could become infected. If your sores do not start improving, consult a doctor for further advice and treatment.  

How Do You Get Rid of Yeast Bumps?

Yeast bumps may be treated alongside other yeast infection symptoms. Some of the most common treatments for yeast infections include antifungal treatments such as:

• Clotrimazole
• Ciclopirox
• Nystatin
• Fluconazole

Antifungal treatments work by preventing the growth of yeast. Most yeast infection treatments are available as topical or suppository medicines. However, fluconazole is only available in tablet form. 

Some other treatments that could help treat the symptoms of a yeast infection include:

• Tea tree oil can help reduce inflammation and has antimicrobial benefits.
• Coconut oil may help to heal wounds, while also reducing inflammation.
• Probiotic yogurt when combined with honey, could help to improve symptoms of yeast infections.

For bumps and sores that are itchy, you may want to use an anti-itch medicine, such as hydrocortisone. It’s important not to use hydrocortisone cream for longer than two weeks without consulting a doctor. Avoid scratching the bumps to help prevent further irritation and possible infection.

What Are Other Symptoms of a Yeast Infection?

Bumps and blisters are just one symptom of a yeast infection, but there are others to look out for that could be signs that you have an infection. These symptoms include:

Itching or Burning

This is one of the most common signs of a yeast infection. It can be difficult to ignore this symptom, leaving you feeling uncomfortable.

Burning Sensation During Urination

While a yeast infection isn’t classed as a UTI, it can affect your urinary tract, leading to a burning sensation when you pee. 

Inflammation, Redness, and Swelling

A yeast infection could cause the infected area to become inflamed, red, and swollen. This can make many activities uncomfortable.

Cracked Skin in the Affected Area

Yeast infection symptoms such as redness and swelling could lead to cracked skin in the affected area. This can cause further itching, pain, and swelling, and could lead to bumps, sores, or blisters.

Pain During Sex

Having sex while suffering from a yeast infection can be very uncomfortable. The friction from penetration could irritate areas that are already inflamed and swollen. Sex while suffering from a yeast infection isn’t advised, as you may transmit it to your partner.

Thick, White Vaginal Discharge

A yeast infection can produce a discharge that’s thick, white, and clumpy. Many people compare it to cottage cheese, and it is one of the giveaway symptoms of a yeast infection. 

If you’re experiencing these symptoms for the first time, it’s worth consulting a doctor to get a diagnosis. Once you learn to recognize the symptoms of an infection, you will be able to source the treatment you need to relieve your symptoms quickly.

Many people experience recurring yeast infections. Someone who presents four different episodes of a yeast infection can be diagnosed with recurrent candidiasis, requiring further tests and examination to determine the underlying cause. Repeated infections can occur as a result of self-diagnosis, which is why it’s important to consult a doctor for a diagnosis.

When to See a Doctor?

While most yeast infections can be treated at home with the help of over-the-counter treatments, you should make an appointment with a doctor if: 

• It’s your first time experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection.
• You have concerns about your symptoms.
• Your symptoms aren’t easing after using yeast infection treatments.
• Your symptoms become worse over time.
• You suspect your symptoms may not be due to a yeast infection.

If you’re experiencing regular infections, consult a doctor to discuss treatments. There may be an underlying cause that requires further testing to get to the bottom of your recurring infections.

How Can DrHouse Help You?

While yeast infections are not something that you want to deal with, they are fairly common. With the right treatment, you can get rid of your symptoms quickly and return to your normal life.

At DrHouse, we can help you to get the treatment you need for your yeast infection. We offer on-demand online doctor visits, so you can get the treatment you need without having to leave your home. We can also provide you with a prescription for medication, if necessary.

FAQ

Key Takeaways

While a yeast infection can be unpleasant, it is a very treatable infection, with many over-the-counter products available. While some of the main symptoms of a yeast infection include itching, burning, and inflammation, the infection can cause bumps and sores that can cause discomfort for sufferers.

With the right treatment, it’s possible to treat a yeast infection quickly, helping to relieve sores, blisters, and other symptoms.

If you suspect your bumps have been caused by something other than a yeast infection, make an appointment with a doctor to help identify other possible causes so that you can get the right treatment.

Sources:

• New figures show 138 million women suffer from recurrent thrush, The University of Manchester. Available from: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/discover/news/new-figures-show-138-million-women-suffer-from-recurrent-thrush/.
• Erika N. Ringdahl, Treatment of Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, American Family Physician. Available from: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/0601/p3306.html#. 
• Yeast infection (vaginal), Mayo Clinic. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999. 
• InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Vaginal yeast infections (thrush): What helps? 2019 Jun 19. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK543219/.
• Carson CF, Hammer KA, Riley TV. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2006 Jan;19(1):50-62. doi: https://www.doi.org/10.1128/CMR.19.1.50-62.2006. PMID: 16418522; PMCID: PMC1360273.
• Darvishi M, Jahdi F, Hamzegardeshi Z, Goodarzi S, Vahedi M. The Comparison of vaginal cream of mixing yogurt, honey and clotrimazole on symptoms of vaginal candidiasis. Glob J Health Sci. 2015 Apr 3;7(6):108-16. doi: https://www.doi.org/10.5539/gjhs.v7n6p108. PMID: 26153168; PMCID: PMC4803919.