If you are a woman, yeast infections are nothing new to you – even if you may not have experienced them, you know someone who has. If you do happen to get yeast infections yourself, you are probably wondering if there are any home remedies for treating them yourself, which there are.
What is a yeast infection?
A yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal infection that causes discharge, irritation, and intense itchiness of the vagina and vulva, or the tissues of the vaginal opening. Many women experience at least two episodes; a yeast infection affects up to three out of four women in their lifetimes.
Most yeast infections are a result of the fungus candida albicans. The vagina contains a balanced mix of yeast and bacteria, which acts to prevent an overgrowth of yeast, but that balance can be affected.
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When that overgrowth of candida in the vagina’s yeast penetrates deeper vaginal cell layers, that is when you can see the signs of a yeast infection.
Although not a sexually transmitted infection, there is a higher risk of vaginal yeast infections during initial sex activity.
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What does a yeast infection look like?
Mild to moderate symptoms of a yeast infection include the following:
- Burning sensation, particularly during intercourse or urinating
- Cottage cheese appearance of vaginal discharge (thick, white, and odor-free or an unusual odor)
- Pain or soreness of the vagina
- Swelling (and redness) of the vulva
- Vaginal rash
- Vaginal/vulva irritation and itching
- Watery discharge from the vagina
Yeast infection healing signs
Ways to tell that your yeast infection has run its course and has begun to heal include the following signs:
- Alleviation of discomfort from decreased itching
- Vaginal discharge has returned to its normal smell and consistency
- Any rash, redness, or swelling has diminished
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How to prevent yeast infections
To prevent the overgrowth of candida, leading to your yeast infection, be mindful of the reasons for this overgrowth:
- Pregnancy (increased estrogen levels)
- Diabetes (when not controlled)
- Hormone therapy, which increases estrogen levels
- Impaired immune system
- Taking oral contraceptives
- Use of antibiotics, which can kill the healthy bacteria in your vagina
There are simple steps for preventing yeast infections. They include avoiding the following:
- Antibiotic use (if not necessary)
- Douching (removes normal vaginal bacteria)
- Hot baths (very hot!) and hot tubs
- Scented feminine hygiene products (such as pads, tampons, and even bubble baths)
- Tight underwear (make sure the crotch is made of cotton)
- Tight pantyhose
- Wet clothes for long periods of time (such as workout clothes or swimsuits)
Best home remedies for yeast infection treatment
There have been many home remedies reported but here are a few that you can try that seem to be the most popular:
- Cranberry juice (if consumed regularly – a few glasses each day – may reduce yeast infections more quickly).
- Coconut oil (when applied to the vaginal area during the infection period, may reduce symptoms).
- Probiotics (a good bacteria that balances vaginal pH) – sold as a supplement
- Plain yogurt (contains probiotics); if eaten regularly, the yeast infections may last for a shorter time.
- Tea tree oil (when diluted with olive oil to prevent burning to the skin, apply to the skin around the infected area to speed up healing).
If the home remedies do not work, or if there are no signs of relief from the symptoms, you will want to seek medical attention.
It may vary with each person, but symptoms usually subside anywhere from one to six days.
It is wise to visit your doctor if this is your first yeast infection or if you’re not sure.
