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Most women will experience at least one yeast infection in their lifetime, and some women get them all the time! That may be you. In this post, we cover natural remedies to relieve the itching and the burning for good! We’ll go over why yeast infections occur, the symptoms of a yeast infection, what yeast infections are, common remedies, and how to make sure yeast infections don’t come back.
What Is a Yeast Infection?
Yeast infections, medically known as Candidiasis, are a common and uncomfortable condition that affects many individuals, primarily women. These infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, most commonly Candida albicans, which naturally resides in various parts of the body, including the skin and mucous membranes. While a small amount of Candida is normal, certain factors can disrupt the delicate balance of microorganisms, leading to excessive growth of the fungus and causing an infection.
One of the most prevalent types of yeast infections is vaginal yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis. When the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina is disturbed, often due to hormonal changes, antibiotics, or a weakened immune system, Candida can multiply rapidly, resulting in symptoms like itching, burning, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Although yeast infections are more commonly associated with women, men can also experience them, particularly in the genital area or the mouth (oral thrush).
What are the Symptoms of Yeast Infection?
Yeast infections can present with various symptoms. It is important to seek medical advice, especially if unsure about what you are seeing, or if treatment is not working. Other infections like bacterial vaginosis — another common overgrowth of certain bacteria — or sexually transmitted infections, can be mistaken for yeast infections.
Common yeast infection Symptoms:
- Vaginal Itching: Itching in and around the vagina is one of the hallmark symptoms of a yeast infection. It may be mild to severe and can be particularly bothersome.
- Abnormal Vaginal Discharge: Women with yeast infections often notice an unusual discharge that is typically thick, white, and resembles cottage cheese. The discharge may have little to no odor. If you are seeing green, yellow, grey, or bloody discharge that is unusual, this may be indicative of a different infection and you should seek medical evaluation.
- Vaginal Soreness and Irritation: The vaginal area may become red, swollen, and sore due to the inflammation caused by the yeast overgrowth.
- Painful Urination: Some women may experience discomfort or a burning sensation while urinating.
- Pain During Intercourse: Sexual intercourse can be painful and uncomfortable when a yeast infection is present.
What Causes Yeast Infections?
Yeast infections may occur for a variety of reasons. They are more common when immunity is compromised and there are hormonal changes. Let’s cover some reasons why you may have gotten one.
- Antibiotics: Taking antibiotics can disrupt the normal balance of microorganisms in the body. Antibiotics not only target harmful bacteria causing an infection but can also kill off beneficial bacteria that help control Candida. This imbalance can allow Candida to multiply and lead to a yeast infection.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or while taking oral contraceptives, or emergency contraceptives like Plan B, can create an environment conducive to yeast overgrowth. Certain hormonal imbalances can put you more at risk as well.
- Weakened Immune System: A weakened immune system, whether due to certain medical conditions like Diabetes, medications like corticosteroids, or illnesses, can reduce the body’s ability to keep Candida in check, making an individual more susceptible to yeast infections.
- High Sugar Intake: Candida thrives on sugar, and a diet high in sugar can contribute to the overgrowth of yeast in the body. Consuming large amounts of sugary foods and beverages can lead to elevated sugar levels in the body, creating an ideal environment for Candida to grow. Diets rich in refined carbohydrates, sugary snacks, and sweetened beverages can disrupt the microbiome.
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system and alter the body’s natural flora, potentially promoting the growth of Candida. Additionally, alcoholic beverages often contain sugars or carbohydrates that can contribute to higher blood sugar levels, further encouraging yeast growth.
- Tight-Fitting Clothing: Wearing tight or non-breathable clothing, especially in the genital area, can create a warm and moist environment, which can promote yeast growth. Avoid wearing underwear that uses synthetic fibers like satin or nylon and opt for cotton.
- Sexual Activity: While yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual activity can sometimes lead to an overgrowth of yeast in the genital area.
- Condoms and Spermicides: Certain condoms may contain materials or lubes that you are sensitive to. This can irritate the vagina leading to a higher risk of infection. Some condoms contain a spermicide called nonoxynol-9 which causes irritation and a higher risk of infections. *Please use protection when needed, there are many great condom brands that contain better materials and natural lubes — I have some listed in this post.
- Douching: Using scented or various washes, cleansers or soap that is not meant for your vagina. Our vaginas have a natural cleaning mechanism and a delicate microbiome. Douching with products, especially scented, will disrupt this delicate balance. If you feel you need to, perhaps look into a Yoni Steam. Be careful with bath products as well.
- Gut Health Imbalance: As we stated above, gut health is HUGE for yeast infections. If you find you are getting yeast infections frequently, I would seriously look into your gut health to find the root cause. Gut health can also contribute to hormonal imbalances and affect menstrual cycles.
Common Medical Treatments: There are prescription and nonprescription treatments. Most of the time women grab an antifungal bought at their local drug store. These are bands like Canestena, Monistat, and generic brands. These use antifungals like Miconazole, terconazole and fluconazole. These come in One, three, and seven-day treatments in suppositories or a capsule and are usually quite effective. As with any medication, there are some risks, drug interactions, and possible allergies. These may include stomach upset, diarrhea, headache, further vaginal itching or burning and body rash, etc.
Some women prefer to avoid these if they can. This brings us to the more natural treatments that have worked for various women — including myself!
Natural Remedies For Yeast Infections
1. Reduce Sugar and Alcohol Intake
Curing a yeast infection starts with addressing the root causes, and one of the most critical steps is to reduce sugar and alcohol consumption. Yeast, particularly Candida, thrives on sugar, and alcohol can weaken the immune system, making it more challenging for your body to fight off the infection. By opting for a low-sugar diet and limiting alcohol intake, you create an environment less favorable for yeast overgrowth, helping your body regain its natural balance. I would still recommend eating fruit for its health benefits, especially berries, and try not to go overboard. Mainly avoid alcohol and processed sugary snacks and dried fruit.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, and it can also aid in treating yeast infections. When diluted with water (ALWAYS DILUTE), its antimicrobial properties can help combat Candida overgrowth. Simply add a cup of apple cider vinegar to your bathwater and soak for about 20 minutes to experience soothing relief from itching and discomfort.
I can personally back this one. I used BRAGGS apple cider vinegar and it helped me cure mine and certainly helped the itching. I put a couple of tablespoons in a small glass container and filled the rest with cold water. I use an organic cotton pad to soak and apply to the area at least 5 times a day and after going to the washroom.
3. Boric Acid
Boric acid is a time-tested remedy for recurrent yeast infections, especially for those resistant to other treatments. It has antifungal properties and can help restore the pH balance of the vagina. It’s essential to use boric acid suppositories as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment. You DO NOT take this by mouth, it is a suppository. This method works well for bacterial vaginosis as well.
You can find Boric Acid Suppository here.
4. Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy balance in the body, including the vaginal flora. Incorporating probiotics into your diet through supplements or foods like yogurt can support the growth of good bacteria and help keep yeast in check.
Vaginal probiotic suppositories can be used to directly target the vaginal environment and promote a balanced microbiome. Look for certain strains like lactobacillus rhamnosus, lactobacillus fermentum, and lactobacillus reuteri. Lactobacillus strains will help produce beneficial lactic acid in the vagina which can help to balance out the microbiome.
Using a probiotic that is formulated for women and one that also contains Saccharomyces boulardii can be helpful. Saccharomyces boulardii is a beneficial yeast probiotic that can offer significant support for gut health. Unlike harmful yeast strains, S. boulardii is non-pathogenic, works by balancing the gut microbiota, and can help yeast infections in the body.
When I was treating mine, I specifically used the women’s probiotic suppository by NFH brand Flora SAP. Although, I’m sure there are other brands you can use. This one is a professional brand that I trust.
5. Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt contains live cultures of beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, which can help restore the vaginal pH and combat yeast infections. Applying plain yogurt externally to the affected area can provide relief from itching and inflammation. Additionally, including yogurt in your diet can help support overall gut health, which can indirectly benefit the vaginal microbiome. Be sure you are buying a good brand that is plain, with NO sugar, or other nonsense ingredients.
6. Bathe in Healing Herbs
Herbs like chamomile, calendula, and lavender possess natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin and promote healing. Preparing a herbal bath by steeping these herbs in warm water and then immersing yourself for 15-20 minutes can offer relief from itching and discomfort caused by yeast infections. But again, be careful of this as certain herbals, may alter vaginal PH or disrupt the microbiome further depending on what you use, I think calendula would be a good one.
7. Be Mindful of Personal Care Products
Many commercial products, such as scented soaps, douches, and feminine hygiene sprays, can disrupt the delicate balance of the vaginal microbiome. It’s crucial to avoid these products as they may aggravate yeast infections. Instead, opt for unscented, gentle, and pH-balanced products specifically designed for intimate use.
Be aware of certain condoms and spermicides as noted above, along with the clothing and underwear you choose. These two can disrupt the microbiome and cause a breeding ground for yeast.
8. Garlic
Garlic is renowned for its potent antifungal properties. You can incorporate more garlic into your diet or use garlic supplements as a natural remedy for yeast infections. Talk to a doctor before supplementing especially if you have blood pressure issues. I personally have the Allimax Garlic capsules.
Additionally, some people tout garlic cloves can be wrapped in gauze and inserted into the vagina for localized treatment. However, consult your healthcare provider before using this method to ensure safety and efficacy. I personally have not tried this and likely won’t, garlic can burn areas and make matters worse. Although there have been studies of this working.
9. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains caprylic acid, a natural antifungal compound that can help combat Candida overgrowth. Caprylic acid works by breaking down the cell walls of Candida and other harmful fungi, effectively curbing their growth and preventing them from causing further havoc in the body. Applying coconut oil to the affected area can provide relief from itching and discomfort. Consuming coconut oil in moderation can also offer internal support in the fight against yeast infections.
Coconut oil that contains more caprylic acid would be MCT oil or 100% caprylic acid like this one.
Or you can also take it in an easy capsule like this one.
10. Natural Antifungal Supplements
Nature provides a wealth of natural supplements with powerful antifungal and antibiotic properties. Garlic, enriched with allicin, effectively fights harmful microbes. Oregano’s carvacrol and thymol combat fungi and bacteria. Grapefruit seed extract offers versatile antimicrobial defense. Suma, an immune-boosting herb, tackles infections. Black walnut, rich in tannins and juglone, fights fungal invaders, and caprylic acid which we noted above is a powerful antifungal as well.
You can find all of these powerful fighters in NEW ROOTS CANDIDA STOP to help restore balance.
Conclusion
We have explored a range of natural remedies and supplements that can aid in addressing yeast infections and supporting overall health. Yeast infections, though common, can cause discomfort and disrupt daily life.
Remember to always talk to your professional health practitioner before starting any new supplements or products and to seek medical advice to evaluate your specific situation.
