Absolutely anyone can get a yeast infection, which occurs when too much yeast grows on the skin or in other areas of the body. Also known as candidiasis, yeast infections are common among infants, people who take antibiotics, people who wear dentures, and individuals going through treatment for cancer, diabetes, or HIV. These infections can occur in skin folds, the mouth, and nail beds. But one of the most common occurrences is inside of women’s vaginas.
This article focuses on the causes of vaginal yeast infections in women and natural ways to treat them and keep the infection away.
Symptoms of Vaginal Yeast Infections
When a vaginal yeast infection develops, a woman will typically notice white or yellow discharge in the vaginal area, as well as redness in the external area surrounding the vagina. Vaginal discharge may have a consistency that resembles cottage cheese. Itching and burning are also common symptoms of vaginal yeast infections. The burning sensation commonly occurs the most during urination.
Causes of Vaginal Yeast Infections
An estimated three out of four women experience at least one vaginal yeast infection during their lifetimes. They are not considered to be sexually transmitted infections. Instead, the overgrowth of yeast can result from an impaired immune system, taking birth control that increases estrogen, pregnancy, antibiotic use, and uncontrolled diabetes. Many women get yeast infections after taking antibiotics for a urinary tract infection because the medication changes the balance between bacteria and yeast. Yeast is essential in the body, but a disruption in the balance of this yeast leads to an infection that can be very painful.
Treating and Preventing Yeast Infections Naturally
Many doctors recommend antifungal medications to treat vaginal yeast infections in either oral or topical form. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis from a professional before treating your own yeast infection in case something else is actually to blame for your symptoms.
A natural remedy that targets vaginal irritations associated with yeast is Seagate’s homeopathic Olive Vaginal Spray. This all-natural remedy can help relieve itching, soreness, swelling, redness, odor, and abnormal discharge while helping you avoid the harsh chemicals contained in many over-the-counter vaginal yeast medications. Simply spray this product into the vaginal cavity before bed and in the morning for up to 10 days, with two to three sprays per use. For the best results, it’s also a good idea to reduce your sugar and carb intake while using this medication and to supplement its use with Olive Leaf Extract capsules.
Other natural remedies for vaginal yeast infections include eating Greek yogurt, boric acid vaginal suppositories, aromatherapy with oregano oil, and probiotic supplements. Tea tree oil and garlic may also help women who are prone to recurrent yeast infections.
Some ways to prevent yeast infections include avoiding scented feminine products, tight-fitting pantyhose, unnecessary antibiotic use, and staying in wet clothing for longer than necessary. Also, avoid douching because this can remove some of the healthy bacteria in the vagina that protects you from infection.