What Causes Them?
Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus, called Candida albicans, or other Candida species. Many healthy women already have some level of yeast in their vaginas. But when the balance of microbes in our bodies is thrown off, when we wear certain types of clothing (such as tight clothing or clothing made from synthetic materials that don’t breathe), when we take antibiotics or other medications, or when our hormone levels change, we may experience an increase in these yeasts that cause infection.
If you develop chronic yeast infections, or if your yeast infection doesn’t appear to be responding to treatment, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor to be sure that your irritation isn’t coming from another cause. Other possible causes include:
● Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) - a condition caused by a flourishing of certain types of bacteria in the vagina; most commonly, gardnerella vaginalis.
● Trichomoniasis - a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is one of the most common causes of vaginal irritation
● Allergies - ranging from perfumed soaps, bubble baths, feminine hygiene sprays or products, or even laundry detergents. You may have an allergy to latex in diaphragms or condoms, or the silicone in cervical caps or shields, or be reacting to a spermicide.
● Lack of Estrogen - this can happen during breastfeeding periods, menopause, or as a result of damage to the ovaries. This can cause the vaginal tissue to dry and thin, causing irritation.
If you are experiencing recurrent yeast infections, speak with your doctor about underlying conditions that may be contributing to these yeast overgrowths. Recurrent yeast infections are common in patients who have HIV, diabetes, or conditions that cause a weakened immune system.
How Are They Treated?
Most yeast infection treatments are over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications called azoles, which are very effective against the most common strain of fungus that causes this condition. Other strains, however, may have to be treated with stronger antifungal medications that your doctor can prescribe.
You should not douche if you develop a yeast infection, because this treatment can actually cause the infection to flourish by killing off the bacteria that keep yeast in check. Avoid scented feminine products and pads, which can cause further irritation.
If you prefer to look for natural alternatives to these medications, try the following home remedies to treat your yeast infection:
Yogurt and Probiotics
Your vagina is the home to a range of “good” microbes, including friendly bacteria that can help keep disease-causing microbes in check. When the balance of these good microbes is thrown off, Candida and other microbes have a chance to flourish, resulting in conditions like yeast infections. One very popular natural remedy for yeast infections is the use of yogurt or probiotic pills and suppositories to restore healthy levels of these good microbes - primarily Lactobacillus acidophilus. Some clinical studies have shown L. acidophilus to be a promising treatment for yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
There are few risks to ingesting healthy bacteria, so this treatment comes with very few side effects. It can also be applied directly, by using unflavored yogurt to saturate a tampon, then freezing it. This applicator can be then inserted into the vagina up to twice daily to treat the infection.
Boric Acid
Boric acid, when taken in suppository capsules, has been shown to be an effective treatment for yeast infections - in particular those which are not caused by C. albicans. Some studies have found that this treatment has a 92 percent cure rate, and other studies have shown that they are more effective than oral azole medications in treating yeast infections. A 2011 report published in the Journal of Women’s Health found that this is a safe alternative to traditional medications for women who have recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis - four or more yeast infections annually - caused by non-albicans strains of yeast.
There are some side effects and risks to discuss with your doctor, though. This treatment may cause vaginal burning and is toxic when swallowed. You also should not use this treatment when pregnant.
Tea Tree Oil
Another home remedy for yeast infections involves using a diluted tea tree oil solution on a tampon and applying it to the vagina to treat a yeast infection. Tea tree oil has been found to be effective against Candida species in both laboratory and rat tests because of its antifungal properties.
Tea tree oil may be irritating to the vagina, which has very sensitive tissues. So if you experience discomfort after applying this treatment, you should discontinue it immediately rather than trying to “tough it out,” because it can cause an increase in irritation.
Apple Cider Vinegar Soaks
Apple cider vinegar has natural, antifungal properties that make it an ideal home remedy for yeast infections. To use, add a cup of apple cider vinegar to your bath water, then soak in the tub for at least 30 minutes (which is a great way to unwind or catch up on your reading!). You can also apply the apple cider vinegar directly to the vagina using a tampon applicator or by dabbing the area with vinegar using a cotton swab or clean cloth.
Go Commando
If you find yourself suffering from chronic yeast infections, take a look at your wardrobe. You should stick to cotton-lined underwear and avoid wearing tight pants or nylons. Hose and tights give yeast the perfect hot, moist environment to thrive. Some experts recommend going commando and wearing long skirts to give the vaginal area a chance to dry out.
Like many other ailments, yeast infections can be successfully managed with home remedies. However, before trying any home remedy, be sure you do your research and try options that are based in solid science, rather than those that are based on old wives’ tales, to avoid making your condition worse. If you find that your home remedies aren’t working, or if you feel that your condition has worsened, always seek the help of a trained medical professional, who can eliminate any other causes for your symptoms and intervene if you need prescription treatment.