Yeast infections can occur in various parts of the body such as the mouth, underarms, and respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, and can affect men as well as women and children.
However, the overwhelming majority of yeast infections occur in women and affects the vaginal/genital areas.
Yeast infections are caused by microorganisms (Primarily Candida Albicans) that are normally found on healthy human tissue.
Problems occur when the natural balance is upset and the microorganisms increase disproportionately to the level of good bacteria.
The naturally acidic environment in the vagina usually keeps the levels of yeast in check. However, if the PH balance (i.e. level of acidity) is affected then the yeast may grow out of control causing an infection.
The acidity of the vagina may be influenced by factors such as menstruation, pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormonal changes.
Symptoms of yeast infection include:
Itchiness and burning sensation in the vagina and surrounding areas. Burning may be more severe during urination.
White, usually odorless discharge.
Redness, rash or soreness
Pain during sexual intercourse.
Yeast levels may be affected by many circumstances including:
Use of oral antibiotics – This tends to reduce the levels of good bacteria which helps the proliferation of yeast.
Use of oral contraceptives or Hormone replacement therapy. Hormonal changes affect the PH balance of the vagina.
Regular douching.
A warm moist environment promotes yeast growth.
Tight jeans and/or synthetic underwear.
As the old saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure” – There are many things a woman could do to reduce her risk of suffering a yeast infection. These include:
Use of cotton rather than synthetic underwear.
Avoiding douching.
While prevention may be desirable, statistics indicate that 3 out of 4 women will suffer from a yeast infection at some point in life.
There is a range of over the counter medications that include topical and oral treatments. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Topical treatments usually provide quick relief from symptoms and have less severe side effects.
However, in order to avoid side effects altogether, many women prefer natural treatments to medication.
There are wide ranges of natural remedies that aim to treat different aspects of the yeast problem.
Many of these natural remedies are just as effective as medications. In fact, it is believed that natural remedies may actually help to provide longer-lasting control of yeast problems.
Common natural remedies for yeast include:
Yogurt- This works by trying to re-establish the balance of good bacteria. Yogurt contains Lactobacillus Acidophilus good bacteria that help overcome yeast and keep it in check.
Yogurt can be administered by applying locally to the affected area or by smearing on a tampon.
Garlic is another popular remedy for yeast infections. Garlic contains natural anti-fungal substances that help to control the yeast. The garlic can be applied by creating a tampon like an applicator with cheesecloth or gauze.
Tea Tree oil is often used to treat yeast. This can be applied externally or administered on a tampon.
Hydrogen peroxide is a substance produced by good bacteria. When levels of good bacteria fall below desired levels using hydrogen peroxide could lend a helping hand to keep yeast under control.
Boric acid capsules may be used to restore the necessary acidic environment in the vagina. Boric acid capsules are used as suppositories.
The heat of the body melts the capsules and releases the Boric acid. Other treatments that aim to restore acidic balance include cider vinegar, lemon juice or Vitamin C suitably diluted.
Douching is not generally recommended in the absence of infection. However, acid douches can be helpful in controlling yeast outbreaks.
Treatments with Gentian Violet and Potassium Sorbate have also had positive results.
In addition to the remedies mentioned above many common treatments such as slippery elm powder or aloe vera juice are used to help alleviate symptoms. These treatments have been found useful in overcoming itchiness.
While there are obvious benefits from adopting natural remedies for yeast infections it is important to consider the risks of self-diagnosis and self-treatment.
Symptoms of yeast infection have much in common with other diseases such as Bacterial Vaginosis, Trichomoniasis, Chlamydia, and other vaginal infections.
Misdiagnosis could cause delays in getting appropriate treatment for these conditions that could result in complications.
Therefore, it is important to consider all circumstances in determining the most appropriate in an individual case.
