First of all what is a Yeast Infection? A vaginal yeast infection is usually caused by a fungus called Candida albicans which is normally found in small amounts in the vagina. It's estimated that three out of four women will have a yeast infection in their lifetime. Factors that contribute to vaginal yeast infection include pregnancy, diabetes, and the use oral contraceptives, steroids, and antibiotics. Yeast infection is also more common after menopause due to declining estrogen levels, which thin the vaginal walls. Getting a Yeast Infection Diagnosed
Although there are many over-the-counter remedies and natural home remedies, you should see a doctor to get properly diagnosed and evaluated, especially if:
- This is your first yeast infection.
- You've had other types of vaginal or urinary tract infection.
- You've already tried treating yourself and symptoms persist.
- You have a weakened immune system due to cancer treatments or diseases such as AIDS.
- You have a fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, abdominal or back pain, bloody discharge, or difficult or increased urination. Go to the hospital immediately, as it may be a serious condition such as kidney infection, appendicitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
- You're with a new sex partner or have had multiple sex partners. It's important to make sure you don't have a sexually transmitted disease, since the symptoms can be similar.
Vaginal yeast infection can be confused with other conditions, such as:
- Bacterial vaginosis - this common condition occurs when there is an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis can spread through sexual intercourse, but it can also occur in women who douche or use an intrauterine birth control device (IUD). It is also common in pregnancy. Symptoms include a gray, foul-smelling discharge with a fishy odor. The odor is often more noticeable after sexual intercourse.
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| Plain yogurt/ Acidophilus The good bacteria in plain yogurt helps fight yeast and yogurt can be used both internally and externally. BUT, be sure you buy plain, unsweetened yogurt. Since sugar feeds yeast, this is a crucial point. You can also use Acidophilus to feed your body good bacteria. For a topical treatment, you can also dip a tampon in plain yogurt and insert it into your vagina or simply rub some on the outside. However, that leaving it on for a prolonged period tends to have the opposite effect. It seems that once it has done its job, it is best to wipe it off or you will feel itchier due to the moisture. |
Garlic Garlic is a big enemy of yeast! This is one of the most effective home remedies for instant relief. Inserting one garlic tab or a garlic clove into the vagina every few hours or as needed provides soothing relief. If you use Garlic, be sure the ingredients are natural and pure. Of course, garlic can be taken internally, as well. Or, if you don't mind the smell, you can press a whole garlic clove and drink it down quickly with water. Do it as often as necessary. Garlic is one of nature's amazing "drugs" that has a number of other health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol. It is a natural antibiotic. Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother) Apple-cider vinegar has many health benefits (including aiding in weight loss) and can be used both internally and externally, as well. However, it is very strong, so it is not recommended that you apply it directly on the skin. It will kill the yeast, but it will burn like nothing you've ever felt! The best external application is to add about a cup of it into your bathwater and take a nice hot bath. This will feel very relaxing and soothing and will help temporarily. The type of vinegar I recommend is Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar, with the Mother. It is important that it have the mother, as this is more natural and less processed. Never use plain, white vinegar! This actually feeds the yeast instead of killing it. Home Remedies
There are many home remedies that have cropped up over the years, and it should be noted that not all of them are real. As such, women should take caution in applying remedies found on the internet, and should consult a doctor before taking action. I personally have tried all three of the remedies below. I never had a yeast infection until I was pregnant with my fourth child. I was determined not to take or insert any thing with medication. I am not really sure which one worked or if it was |
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a combination of all three, but I did get rid of the yeast infection and have not had it since. The only thing I have to say about natural vs. over-the-counter medications is that the over-the-counter probably works a lot faster but is only a temporary fix. You need to get rid of the problem. I would suggest a healthy diet and eating a lot of garlic. Garlic is great for killing infection. I take it everyday and also give it to my kids. I have also listed some more natural over-the-counter meds you can try. *Please consult physician before trying any of the natural remedies above. |
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