How do you know if you have a vaginal infection and what can you do to make it better without going to a doctor?

Yeast infection?: Vaginal itching and a cottage cheese-like discharge could be signs of a vaginal yeast infection. You can try using over the counter yeast infection medication (like miconazole) if you have these symptoms. If the symptoms persist after this treatment, or if you are experiencing any pain, it should be evaluated by a doctor since it could mean a different diagnosis.