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Home remedies for yeast infections have been used by people since ages. In fact, vaginal burning and itching caused by yeast infections can be relieved with home remedies. They may or may not be useful in treating an existing case of Candida yeast overgrowth, but there's strong evidence that they can help prevent yeast infections.
In this article, we will look at what are vaginal yeast infections, and which home remedies for yeast infection you can use to provide relief.
What is a vaginal yeast infection?
Overgrowth of Candida albicans, a fungus that usually lives in the vagina but can cause an infection when it multiplies unchecked, is the most common cause of vaginal yeast infections (vaginal candidiasis).
The overgrowth of bacteria, fungi, and other organisms can lead to redness, swelling, itching, and a painful discharge. Yeast infections affect the vagina and vulva of nearly all women at some point.
You should see a gynecologist or other healthcare provider to rule out other vaginal conditions if this is your first time experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection.
Symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection
Some of the most typical signs of a vaginal yeast infection are:
- White or yellowish vaginal discharge that can be watery or have a clumpy texture, similar to cottage cheese
- Itching in the vagina
- Burning sensation felt during urination or sex
- Experiencing pain during sex
- Tender or swollen vagina
- Rashes
These symptoms are generally relieved by home remedies for yeast infection.
How is an yeast infection diagnosed?
Make an appointment with a doctor if you suspect you have a yeast infection, especially if this is your first infection.
Your doctor will ask about your medical history and conduct a pelvic exam, during which they will look for external signs of infection on your cervix, vaginal walls, and the surrounding area.
If they determine that you have a yeast infection, they will also provide you with treatment options.
Home remedies for yeast infection
If you have had a yeast infection before and think you might have another one, there are many home treatments you can try. You may already have some of the ingredients necessary for these cures lying around the house.
Keep in mind that the efficacy of these treatments varies and that there's mainly anecdotal evidence for their success:
1) Greek yogurt
This is one of the best natural home remedies for yeast infection. Yogurt is a probiotic, as it contains live bacteria like Lactobacillus acidophilus, which has been shown to be effective against the yeast Candida albicans. A healthy vaginal ecosystem is supported by these bacteria, and excess growth due to imbalance can be counteracted by them.
Choose plain Greek yogurt if you want to treat a yeast infection with yogurt. Make sure there's no sugar, flavoring, or fruit added to the yogurt. The growth of the Candida fungus can be encouraged by the presence of extra sugar.
How to:
- Have yogurt regularly
- Apply it to the vulva around your vagina
Generally, having yogurt every day is a great way to prevent yeast infection from developing.
2) Coconut oil
The antifungal properties of coconut oil make it one of the best home remedies for yeast infection. In fact, there's some research to show that coconut oil may be effective in combating yeast infections.
If you want to use coconut oil to treat a vaginal yeast infection, make sure you get the organic kind. The oil can be applied topically to the sore spot.
3) Apple cider vinegar
This is one of the most popular home remedies for yeast infection. An apple cider vinegar soak or bath is a common home remedy for yeast infections.
Of vinegar's many purported health benefits, some have stronger scientific backing than others. However, the acidic component of apple cider vinegar may help eliminate any harmful microorganisms, including yeast, when added to a lukewarm bathtub and soaked in for 20 minutes.
4) Vitamin C
Vitamin C is important for immune function and skin health. Having a robust immune system helps the body restore its equilibrium. It's also one of the better home remedies for yeast infection.
Some people treat Candida overgrowths by increasing their intake of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, due to its antimicrobial properties. To help the body fight off the yeast infection, try taking in more vitamin C. Do not apply vitamin C on or around the vaginal tissue, as it's acidic.
To surmise, home remedies for yeast infection may not always be effective. Keep in mind that the FDA does not test or inspect herbs, supplements, or essential oils to ensure their safety, purity, or quality. That's why it's important to only buy them from trustworthy sellers.
The success of a home remedy is highly conditional, depending on factors like the individual, nature of infection, and standard of care being administered. If you have recurrent vaginal infections, discuss other natural methods of prevention and treatment with your doctor.
It's important to remember that vaginal skin can be sensitive no matter what you use. If you experience any sort of reaction to treatment, you should stop using it immediately and consult a doctor.
