vaginapagina | Non-irritating cure for yeast infection? (Reply)

I've had a lot of problems lately with my girly bits, which culminated in my seeing the doctor for irritation that wouldn't go away. One of the problems was a yeast infection set off by antibiotics, and I treated it several times, but it always came back 2-4 days later. Finally, my period came and went and it seemed to really be gone, but 4 days later, it was back again.

The doctor gave me a steroid ointment to apply twice daily for five days to help with the generalized irritation. I just applied my last dose this morning. The yeast infection came back Monday.

I have two questions.

Is there any treatment (besides Diflucan or the like) that won't irritate as it treats? I'm finally free of my pain, and I'd really rather not throw some more irritation causing crap at myself. :( I have an appointment with the doctor for oral treatment, but it's not until November 10, and I'd like to not just sit and let this fester for 12 days.

Also, is it likely that the petroleum-based ointment caused a smothered breeding ground for a yeast infection or does it just sound like a recurrance of the previous one?