How do you Cure a Vaginal Yeast Infection: Exploring Your Options

Most women will experience several yeast infections in their lifetimes. The term “yeast infection” is somewhat of a misnomer. It is not actually an infection — rather, it is an overgrowth of natural yeast in the vagina. Yeast is present in the vagina all of the time — however, under certain conditions, some types of the yeast organisms start growing too fast. The result is itching, burning, a “yeasty” smell, and discharge.

What conditions allow yeast infections to take hold? Often times, an unbalance in the vaginal Ph (its acidity) is to blame. This unbalance can occur due to diet, menstrual-related changes, and sexual intercourse, although often times, we never find out what is to blame for causing a yeast infection.

There are two basic ways of treating a yeast infection. First, prescription or over the counter medications that contain substances that kill the yest can be used. These medications are generally in the form of a cream or vaginal suppository, and take about three to seven days to be fully effective. Although you can obtain a prescription for yeast infection medication from your doctor, evidence suggests that over the counter medications are as effective. However, if you use an over the counter treatment and are not successful at getting rid of your yeast infection, do talk to your doctor about using a prescription medication. Your doctor should also do an examination and rule out other conditions, such as a bacterial vaginal infection.

Second, there are a number of natural treatments that women use successfully to treat a yeast infection. Two of the most common treatments are garlic and yogurt, either of which need to be inserted into the vagina. They can also be consumed orally, but vaginal contact is key. Yogurt can be inserted into the vagina using a suppository, blunt syringe, or finger. Many women also freeze yogurt, often in the fingers of a latex glove, and then insert the frozen piece of yogurt. Garlic can be inserted directly, or a sachet can be created by wrapping cloves of garlic in cheesecloth.

Many women also apply vinegar or bathe in vinegar water. Use a natural apple cider vinegar for the best result. Vinegars work the same way that many other treatments, including yogurt, work — they change the acidity of the vagina to make it less hospitable to the kind of yeast that has overgrown.

Some women also have success preventing yeast infections from happening in the first place by eating or inserting yogurt or garlic, or applying vinegar, whenever they feel that the Ph of their vagina may be changing — for example, before and after your period. Yeast infection prevention also involves avoiding douching and tight underwear and clothing that might not allow your vagina to “breathe”. In addition, bathing frequently, but avoiding excessive cleansing or use of soap products inside the vagina or vulva is essential to helping your vaginal yeasts maintain their natural balance.

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