Yeast infections are common, uncomfortable, and can put a pause on your sex life. If you’ve recently had a yeast infection, you might be wondering: How long should you wait before having sex again? The answer is important for your health, your partner’s well-being, and your future comfort.

Why You Should Wait

Doctors and sexual health experts agree:You should wait until your yeast infection is completely cleared and all symptoms are gone before having sex1. Here’s why:

• Sex can irritate healing tissue: Vaginal sex (or any penetration) can inflame already sensitive or damaged tissue, making symptoms worse and slowing recovery.
• Risk of passing the infection: While yeast infections aren’t classified as STIs, they can be passed between partners-especially if your partner has a vagina.
• Risk of reinfection: Having sex too soon can reintroduce yeast or bacteria, leading to a recurring infection.
• Discomfort and pain: Sex during or right after a yeast infection can be painful, itchy, or cause burning sensations2.

How Long Should You Wait?

• Finish your treatment: Whether you’re using a 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day treatment (cream, suppository, or oral medication), complete the full course as directed1.
• Wait until all symptoms are gone: This usually means no more itching, burning, irritation, abnormal discharge, or redness2.
• General guideline: Most experts recommend waiting at least 24 hours after finishing your treatment, but ideally 2–3 days after all symptoms have resolved1.
• If symptoms persist: If you still have symptoms after treatment, see your doctor before resuming sex2.

What If You Have Sex Too Soon?

• You may prolong your infection or make symptoms worse1.
• You could pass the infection to your partner, who may then pass it back to you2.
• You may experience more pain or discomfort1.

Additional Tips

• Use protection: If you absolutely can’t wait, use a condom-but remember, some yeast infection treatments can weaken latex condoms, so check your medication instructions2.
• Communicate with your partner: Let them know what you’re experiencing so you can make decisions together for both your health and comfort.

How KnotLove Supports Your Intimacy and Healing

Taking a break from penetrative sex doesn’t mean intimacy has to stop.KnotLove offers a wide range of activities and challenges that don’t involve vaginal penetration or anything that could inflame a yeast infection. With KnotLove, you can:

• Explore sensual, non-penetrative activities that keep intimacy alive while you heal.
• Use the “Pause for Now” feature to temporarily skip activities that aren’t right for you at the moment.
• Communicate your boundaries and comfort levels privately through personal desire ratings.
• Make shared decisions about when to resume certain activities, ensuring both partners feel safe and respected.

KnotLove empowers you to stay connected, playful, and supported-even when your body needs time to recover.