Alternative Cures for Yeast Infections in Women
There are many reasons that yeast infections occur and there are many ways in which to treat them. Yeast infections are one of the most common health issues for women. If you have not had a yeast infection before and believe you have one, it is best to contact your doctor before you make a treatment decision.
Symptoms of a yeast infection include:
- Itching and swelling in and around the vagina and vulva
- Vaginal discharge that may have the consistency of cottage cheese (curdy)
- Pain during intercourse
The cause of a yeast infection:
- Yeast infections are caused by a fungus called Candida Albicans. This fungus can grow under nails and in the mouth as well as the vagina. When this fungus starts to grow rapidly, you feel the effects which are associated with a yeast infection.
There are options in the treatment of a yeast infection. Many are sold over the counter in the form of ointments, suppositories and tablets. Depending on your point of view, these products may be costly to purchase and messy to use. Not all of options work for each individual and not all individuals hold the same beliefs about ways of healing.
If you are someone who prefers alternative treatments to commercial ones, here are some of the choices already used effectively as alternative cures for yeast infections in women.
- Change in diet. Many people including doctors feel that a diet that is low in refined foods, sugars and fats can help prevent vaginal infections. Even if this does not completely rid you of ever having a yeast infection, it will very likely reduce the recurrence.
- Changes in underwear. There are studies that have been done which show that women who wear nylon underwear or tights as opposed to cotton were three times more likely to get a yeast infection
- Supplements:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus: Not all bacteria are bad. This bacterium can be found, not only in the body but in unsweetened yogurt containing active cultures, as well as in powder and capsule forms.
- Boric Acid: Boric acid can be inserted by suppositories and has been shown to be particularly helpful in those with recurring yeast infections. Boric acid should NEVER be swallowed and should not be used longer than the recommended amount of time. This is also not a method that should ever be applied to children.
- Echinacea, which has the ability to improve the immune system, has also been effective in women who have recurrent yeast infections. One study showed that there was as much as a 43% decline in the recurrence with the use of Echinacea.
Yeast infections are a very common yet very disrupting infection. Suffering with the discomfort and distraction of a yeast infection is less likely to be problematic if dealt with as soon as symptoms become apparent. Those that have recurrent infections know the feelings and those that do not should always seek the advice of a physician. Sometimes a prescription medication is necessary, especially if you are not getting the relief you need from other products.
Luckily, the treatments that are now available work quickly to at least mitigate the most bothersome symptoms while working to recreate the healthy balance of bacteria and remove the fungal overgrowth. Whether you choose a commercial over the counter remedy or an alternative route is a very personal decision. Remember that if you are allergic to any of the aforementioned products, do not use them. If you are pregnant or think you may be, consult a physician first, not all applications are safe and your doctor will make sure you are provided with a remedy for you that does not risk the health of your child. Once you have recognized and treated the symptoms of a yeast infection, you will be back in control and feeling well again.
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