Yeast Infection Up Close

Candida albicans is a fungus that causes yeast infection in the vagina. 3 out of 4 women is estimated to have this kind of vaginal infection in a lifetime condition which is worsened by pregnancy and diabetes, as well as by the use of oral contraceptives, antibiotics, and steroids.

Studies also show yeast infection’s connection with a woman’s post menopause stage during which the vaginal walls become thinner due to plummeting levels of estrogen. Yeast infection in the vagina causes a lot of trouble for women. It is often characterized by vaginal or urinal itching and burning, thick-white discharges, and painful sexual intercourse.

Remedies of Yeast Infection

One of the most popular remedy for vaginal yeast infection is probiotics which are tiny live microbes that naturally inhabits the digestive system and the vagina. This friendly bacteria, most common of which is Lactobacillus, suppresses and blocks the spread of harmful microorganisms. Probiotics usually come in the form of oral supplements, although vaginal suppositories also exist but are hard to find.

Boric acid is another chemical substance commonly used to address yeast infection. It is a natural and milder remedy that has both antiseptic and antifungal characteristics.. Studies have shown that it is as effective as sporanox, a kind of antifungal drug.

On the other hand, as compared to topical or oral medications, boric acid suppositories proved to be more effective by a margin of more than 50%. However, the use of this natural remedy for vaginal yeast infection carries a caveat that such should not be taken by mouth, not be applied on open cuts or wounds, and not used excessively. Its side effects could include burning or irritation in the vagina. Thus, pregnant women and infants should avoid using this on the skin.

Another natural remedy for yeast infection, otherwise known as candidiasis is tea tree oil. It is used by diluting it and applying it to the vaginal area that has infection. Applying it to the body without first diluting it is not advised since the full strength of the substance may be harmful to the sensitive skin of the vagina.

Although the compound terpinen-4-ol is said to be the key ingredient in treating candidiasis, this remedy for vaginal bacterial infection is not recommended since there has been very few studies that concluded its effectiveness for humans.

Get a Proper Diagnosis

Serious vaginal infections, although easily treatable by natural over-the-counter home remedies for yeast infection, should not be let to chance. One should make sure of the risks or gravity of the condition so as to employ the appropriate remedy.

This warning should be stressed to some particular individuals such as those who have had a history of similar vaginal infections, those who have tried self-medication but the symptoms persist, those who have had cancer treatments, those who have other afflictions, and those who have are promiscuous in their sexual relations since the symptoms of yeast infection could be similar to sexually transmitted diseases.