How to Check for Yeast Infections: The 4 Best At-Home Vaginal pH Tests

Yeast infections are a frequent type of infection. Roughly 75 percent  of women will experience a yeast infection at least once in their lives. Although uncomfortable, yeast infections are generally straightforward to treat.

But before treating them, you need to recognize them.

Vaginal infections are most reliably diagnosed by a clinician. That’s the safest route because a healthcare provider can confirm whether you’re dealing with a yeast infection.

If you can’t see a clinician right away, an at-home vaginal pH test may be useful. These OTC tests measure how acidic your vaginal secretions  are. They won’t definitively diagnose a yeast infection, but they can help exclude other kinds of infections.

Quick look at our picks for the best at-home vaginal pH tests

• Best drugstore vaginal pH test: CVS Health Feminine Screening Kit for Vaginal Infections
• Easiest vaginal pH test to read: Natureland Vaginal pH Test
• Best discreet vaginal pH test: Winx Vaginal pH Tests
• Best inexpensive vaginal pH test: PGYARD Vaginal pH Test

Pricing guide

At-home vaginal pH tests are generally inexpensive. You can buy them online or at most pharmacies.

• $ = under $12
• $$ = $12–$15
• $$$ = over $15

HealthEH’s picks for the best vaginal pH tests

Best drugstore vaginal pH test

CVS Health Feminine Screening Kit for Vaginal Infections

• Price: $$$

You can locate an affordable, effective pH kit at many drugstores. This CVS kit includes two swabs and gives a quick indication of whether your vaginal pH is abnormal.

Users report it helped them decide if they should see their gynecologist. Some reviewers felt the kit should include more swabs given the cost.

As with all home vaginal pH kits, keep in mind this cannot conclusively diagnose a yeast infection.

Easiest vaginal pH test to read

Natureland Vaginal pH Test

• Price: $$

This package provides 40 pH strips to assess the acidity of your vaginal discharge. It’s simple to use and interpret, and includes plenty of strips if you need to repeat a test.

The strips are individually wrapped, making them convenient to carry and store.

Buyers appreciate the clear color chart and quick results. One user who regularly tracks her pH said this kit was ideal for checking progress during treatment.

Best discreet vaginal pH test

Winx Vaginal pH Tests

• Price: $

Winx provides home delivery and is urologist-endorsed. The kit was created by women for women.

Orders arrive in a discreet package and deliver fast results.

Each set contains two test swabs and straightforward directions. For people who frequently monitor pH, Winx offers subscription choices.

Reviewers who often get yeast infections or want budget-friendly options say they are pleased with the tests. Many like the privacy of not needing frequent pharmacy visits.

Best inexpensive vaginal pH test

PGYARD Vaginal pH Test

• Price: $$

This kit includes 50 strips — packed as 10 strips per pouch — and is handy for people who need to test pH frequently. Results are easy to interpret using the included chart.

People susceptible to bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections report this kit helped them detect developing issues.

Additionally, people with diabetes monitoring Candida find this kit useful for ongoing checks.

When should you get tested for a yeast infection?

Some signs you might have a yeast infection include:

• burning
• itching
• thick vaginal discharge that’s white or yellow

If you notice any of these symptoms, consider getting tested for a yeast infection. See a clinician if it’s your first infection or if self-care hasn’t improved your symptoms.

If you can’t see a provider immediately, an at-home pH kit can help determine whether your vaginal pH is abnormal.

What to expect from a yeast infection test

The most reliable way to confirm a yeast infection is with a vaginitis test from a doctor.

The clinician will use a sterile swab to collect a sample, then examine it under a microscope to look for infection.

If you use an at-home pH kit, you press a pH strip against the vaginal wall for a few seconds.

Next, match the strip color to the chart included with your kit. That tells you if your pH is off, though it won’t definitively prove a yeast infection.

What to do after receiving yeast infection test results

If an at-home pH test suggests you might have a yeast infection, you can try OTC treatments like miconazole or clotrimazole.

Calamine lotion or 1 percent hydrocortisone cream can ease vulvar itching. Wearing cotton or other breathable underwear can help prevent worsening symptoms.

If a clinician diagnoses you, they might prescribe medication, or you can still use OTC options.

People with recurrent yeast infections may receive different care. A clinician might request a fungal culture or suggest stronger prescription therapy.

FAQs about yeast infection tests

Can an at-home test check for yeast infection?

No. At-home pH kits cannot diagnose yeast infections. They only indicate whether your vaginal pH is within a typical range.

Remember that a raised pH doesn’t always mean an infection is present. Likewise, a low or normal pH doesn’t guarantee an infection isn’t present.

The most dependable way to confirm a yeast infection is to see a clinician.

How do doctors test for yeast infections?

Clinicians usually perform a vaginitis test. They swab vaginal discharge and examine the sample under a microscope.

This test is the best method to distinguish a yeast infection from other conditions, such as BV, chlamydia, or trichomoniasis.

Is it OK to take yeast infection medication without getting a test from a doctor first?

It’s generally acceptable to self-treat if you’ve had a yeast infection before and your symptoms match prior episodes. It’s also reasonable if a healthcare professional has advised you that your symptoms are likely a yeast infection and recommended treatment.

However, for severe or atypical cases, consult a clinician. Not all itching or discharge is due to yeast.

Book an in-person visit as soon as possible. If symptoms are intense, you might begin OTC miconazole while awaiting your appointment.

How we chose the best vaginal pH tests

We considered reputable brands with positive user feedback. We also evaluated how simple the tests are to use and how fast they display results.

As noted, these kits will notconfirm a yeast infection. They indicate whether pH levels are abnormal.

Yeast infections often correspond with lower pH levels, while some other infections like BV are associated with higher pH.

If you’re unsure about the cause of your symptoms, getting an official diagnosis and treatment from a clinician is recommended.

Takeaway

If you suspect a yeast infection, the only definitive way to know is to see a clinician. Home tests can provide limited information about symptoms but can’t fully diagnose an infection.

OTC treatments may resolve mild cases, but more serious infections usually require prescription medication.

As with any suspected infection, consult a clinician to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment without delay.