It can be awkward for many people to talk about yeast infections, particularly for women with whom the most common form of yeast infection is vaginal. Since three quarters of women suffer from them though it is something that should not be felt embarrassed about. Treatment can be difficult though for many who turn to over the counter medications only to feel frustration when they are ineffective, so this article looks at what a yeast infection is and how it can be treated at home.
On everyone lives many different micro-organisms and the two we are interested in today are a fungus called Candida Albicans and the good bacteria. These two tiny things when in balance with each other means all is well and we are healthy, as the good bacteria keep the fungus at low and harmless levels. But if your immune system is not working at full strength, you are on antibiotics, pregnant, uncontrolled diabetes or other triggers happen that allow the fungus to overgrow, that is when a yeast infection happens. The vagina is most often the area of infection due to the ideal breeding grounds it offers of warmth and dampness. External signs are a swelling, redness, itching and burning.
Make sure you maintain excellent standards of hygiene which includes drying thoroughly after bathing and also avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and soaps in the area, such as detergents, perfumed sprays and scented liners or tampons. These just upset the natural flora balance and can lead to a yeast infection. Wear cotton underwear as it allows the skin to breathe, and loose clothing that allows the air to circulate and keeps it from being overly sweaty.
Dealing with the root of your infection is the way to permanently cure it but there are also two options in terms of soothing the symptoms, natural or over the counter/medicated. Severe infections need a doctor to look at them and prescribe a stronger drug, but there are some people that are happy with how over the counter treatments work. They are 1, 3, 5 or 7 day courses and come as a pill, cream or suppository. Natural remedies do not have side effects and are a lot cheaper. Examples are live bacteria plain yogurt, raw garlic, apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil.
Remember that for each person a treatment acts differently so what works for one woman might not work for you. This means you may have to try several treatments before you find the one for you.
For more info on how to deal with candida, check out our candida symptoms and cure website, where you can find plenty of information on the subject. Today’s special: vaginal yeast infection