If you are tired of going to the doctor’s office every time you experience itching, burning and discharge symptoms of read on. This article provides DIY remedies for your vaginal yeast infection.
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Sometimes being a woman isn’t easy. Beginning at age 12, or shortly thereafter, we are blessed with a wonderful gift fondly referred to as “the curse”, “our friend”, or “that time of the month.” As an added bonus, we are gifted with the accompanying cramps and PMS (Post-Menstrual Syndrome). However, if you look on the bright side, PMS can serve as a wonderful scapegoat to justify a bad mood!
Then we begin our journey into the desert. The scene: Temperature 30°, ice and snow cover the ground, you are about to get into your car, your face is red like a shiny new apple and you look like you just left the spa’s sauna. Yes, our old friend menopause has arrived for a 10-year visit.
On a more serious note, I’d like to talk about something that is also very familiar to women – yeast infections in women. Women are not exclusive to yeast infections. Men also are susceptible.
What is Candidiasis?
Candidiasis is a common female condition caused by the fungus candida – associated with intense itching, swelling, and irritation.
According to the Mayo Clinic three out of four women will be infected at some point in their life. Unfortunately, once you get the first, you are very likely to get others.
What are some of the causes?
The fungus candida is the culprit. It is a micro organism present in your vagina, along with bacteria. Your vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast and bacteria. Lactobacillus bacteria produce acid, which discourages overgrowth of yeast in the vagina. Disruption of the healthy balance results in an overgrowth of yeast. Too much yeast leads to the uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing symptoms.
How do I know if I have it?
Five ways to tell. Symptoms can range from mild to moderate and may include:
- Itching and irritation in the vagina and at the entrance to the vagina (vulva)
- A burning sensation, especially during intercourse or while urinating
- Redness and swelling of the vulva
- Vaginal pain and soreness
- Thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance
What are some of the factors that may increase my risk of developing an infection?
- Antibiotic use. Yeast infections are common in women who take antibiotics. Broad-spectrum antibiotics — those that are effective against a wide range of bacteria — kill healthy bacteria in your vagina, which can lead to the overgrowth of yeast.
- Increased estrogen levels. Yeast infections appear to occur more frequently in women with increased estrogen levels — for instance, in women who are pregnant, those taking high-dose estrogen birth control pills or those taking estrogen hormone therapy.
- Increased estrogen levels. Yeast infections appear to occur more frequently in women with increased estrogen levels — for instance, in women who are pregnant, those taking high-dose estrogen birth control pills or those taking estrogen hormone therapy.
- Uncontrolled diabetes. In women who have diabetes, those with poorly controlled blood sugar levels are more likely to develop yeast infections than are women who have diabetes under control.
- Impaired immune system. Women with lowered immunity — such as from corticosteroid therapy or HIV infection — are more likely to get yeast infections.
- Sexual activity. Although yeast infections aren’t considered sexually transmitted infections, one way the candida organism can be introduced into your vagina is through sexual contact.
How are yeast infections diagnosed?
Like other diseases and infections, a yeast infection could mimic another disease and present you with a misdiagnosis. There are over-the-counter kits available, but it is wise to consult your physician for a pelvic exam to determine if your diagnosis is accurate.
Can it be passed around during sex?
Yes, it can be sexually transmitted, especially through oral-genital sexual contact. However, yeast infections are not considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD) because it also affects women who aren’t sexually active.The candida fungus is naturally present in the vagina.
How is this infection treated?
This is a very personal matter. Some women go to their physician for medial treatment, and some prefer a natural or homeopathic approach. This article offers natural remedies. However, it is recommended that you seek advice from your medical provider before using any type of natural or homeopathic treatments.
8 DIY Remedies For Vaginal Yeast Infection
- Unsweetened cranberry juice. The sugar in sweetened cranberry juice may worsen your condition. Cranberry juice is known to help acidify vaginal secretions, which helps fight an excess yeast buildup that may be present,
- Unsweetened yogurt. Get an unused tampon, dip it into the yogurt and insert it into your vagina for 30 minutes. You can also put some yogurt around the affected area externally.
- Boric acid. Research shows that boric acid suppository capsules prove effective. An early study found that boric acid suppositories, when taken nightly for 7 to 10 days, have up to a 92 percent cure rate. Do not use if you are pregnant to prevent unwanted complications.
- Water. Drink eight to ten glasses of water each day. This practice will help to flush out any unwanted toxins in your body.
- Cotton to breathe. Wear cotton underwear to allow air circulation; do not wear pants that are too tight and restrictive.
- Practice good genital hygiene. Washing the affected area at least three times a day may relieve symptoms. Eliminate harsh soaps or any feminine products.
- Garlic. Garlic has anti-fungal properties, and is effective treatment. You can insert a garlic clove inside of your vagina every few hours, or as needed to help alleviate itching.
- Apple cider vinegar. A panacea for many ailments including beauty. Combine one cup of apple cider vinegar to your bathwater and soak for 15 minutes. When using any natural remedy, be cautious. Applying directly to the skin may cause irritation and burning.
Vaginal yeast infections are very common and can easily be cured, but can also turn into something more serious like invasive candidiasis. Remember to consult with your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms, to get an accurate diagnosis and before treating your symptoms naturally.
Click on the link below to learn about a proven 5-step anti-candida success system – a powerful protocol regarding how to eradicate any type of yeast infection and various levels of severity.View some great success stories of other women who have experienced and overcome various types of infection.
[Updated: July 14, 2015]