Home Remedies You Should Know For A Yeast Infection
Developing a vaginal yeast infection is a common health-related problem that women face. Per Mayo Clinic, a yeast infection occurs due to the growth of a fungus called candida albicans in your vagina. The condition can cause several symptoms, including discomfort, discharge, inflammation, and itchiness of the vagina and the vulva.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, at least 75% of all women may experience one type of vaginal candida infection during their lifetime. You can develop a yeast infection due to several reasons, including hormonal changes during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause. Moreover, the use of birth control pills or antibiotic medicines, douches and sprays, and sexual intercourse can also disturb the natural PH of the vagina and foster the growth of the candida fungus (via WebMD). That aside, factors like stress, lack of sleep, diabetes, and immune diseases could also increase the likelihood of getting a vaginal yeast infection (via Harvard Health Publishing).
Since this type of infection is quite common, you can cure it with medications. However, if you repeatedly develop a yeast infection — let's say more than four times a year — you may want to see your doctor for a more thorough treatment (via Mayo Clinic).
Besides oral medicines and ointments, you can choose some home remedies to treat your vaginal yeast infections. These home remedies can not only give you temporary relief until you see your doctor or get your hands on medicines, but they can also completely cure the infection.
Home remedies to treat a vaginal yeast infection
One of the most effective remedies to cure a vaginal yeast infection is to increase the intake of yogurt. A study published in the Egyptian Nursing Journal showed that yogurt contains live bacteria such as lactobacillus acidophilus that can help treat the overgrowth of candida.
Another way to treat a vaginal yeast infection is to use garlic. The herb contains antibacterial and antifungal properties. A study published in the journal of Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy suggests that eating garlic can effectively get rid of the candida fungus (via Healthline). However, more research is still needed to back this.
Per Healthline, you can also treat a vaginal yeast infection by increasing your vitamin C intake, since it helps to make your immune system stronger. Besides, vitamin C contains antimicrobial properties which can treat yeast infections by inhibiting the growth of candida.
Apart from the aforementioned home remedies, you should also try to practice good hygiene to avoid infections. For instance, you should take a shower immediately after exercise, as sweat can enhance the growth of harmful bacteria in your vagina. "[Likewise], avoid super tight clothing, don't sit around in a wet bathing suit, and don't wear a pantiliner every day, since it can trap moisture," Ob/Gyn Kathryn Goebel told Cleveland Clinic.