How to Treat a Yeast Infection

The fungus Candida grows naturally in your body. However when the fungus grows too rapidly, it can set your vaginal area up for a yeast infection. If you have a yeast infection, then you are probably well aware of the symptoms- the itching, the white discharge, the burning and redness around the walls of your vagina. There are various products that are over-the-counter that will help get rid and treat yeast infections, but there are also some home remedies you can try at home that will help you treat a yeast infection.

Eat PLAIN yogurt. Yogurt contains the active ingredients acidophilus and bifidus that help get rid of yeast. You can also use the yogurt topically (if you can handle it). Insert the yogurt into the vaginal area with either your fingers or with a tampon.

Dilute white or apple cider vinegar with water (some prefer 1-3T to one quart of water) before it is spread over the vaginal area. This remedy works quite well but may be burn or hurt when it is applied to sensitive, inflamed skin. Do this remedy until your symptoms are gone but no longer than a week. If vinegar seems a little too harsh for you, you can try to bathe in tea tree oil which can be more soothing than vinegar.

There are other natural supplements that you can take, as well as consuming other foods. Drink straight cranberry juice (no cran-grape, apple, strawberry, etc) or eat garlic (which can also be used as a suppository wrapped in gauze–yes, really). Avoid foods that are high in starches such as potatoes, pastas, and breads; also avoid foods that high in sugar since sugar helps promote the growth of yeast.

If the itching seems unbearable, you can put a wrapped up icepack or bag of frozen peas against the irritated area. You can also take a bath in baking soda to relieve your uncomfortable feeling.

It is extremely important that before you try any medications or remedies to consult with your doctor, especially if you have never had a yeast infection before. At that time, your doctor will discuss with you the proper ways of how to treat a yeast infection.