Home Remedies to Treat Vaginal Yeast Infections

The prevalence of vaginal yeast infections is unbelievable, as three women out of 4 in their lives will experience it. They are generally not serious, but due to their tendency to make you uncomfortable and irritable, they might interfere with your life on a day-to-day basis. In case you are searching for ways to control or prevent this infection, instead of medications, a range of safe and effective home remedies can be used.

So, how do yeast infections come about, what are the symptoms, and what are some of the home remedies one can rely on to get relief?

What is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Yeast infection is a result of the overgrowth of a fungus known as Candida albicans in the vaginal region. Candida usually coexists with other microorganisms, but some factors may cause it to grow excessively, resulting in infection.

Symptoms of Yeast Infection

Typical indicators are:

• Vaginal and vulva itching or irritation
• White, thick, odourless discharge (cottage cheese-like)
• Recurrent swelling of the vaginal opening
• Urinary or sexual burning
• Sore or rash

Causes and Risk Factors

• Use of antibiotics (interferes with the natural flora of the vagina)
• Change of hormones (pregnancy, birth control pills)
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Immune system weakness
• Wearing tight underwear or synthetic underwear
• Unhealthy vaginal health
• Sugar food

Home Remedies for Vaginal Yeast Infections

Here are some natural remedies that may help manage mild yeast infections:

1. Probiotic Yoghurt

Probiotics assist in ensuring the healthy body has the good bacteria in the proper proportions. Consumption of unsweetened yoghurt with live cultures can be used to promote vaginal health. Others also use some yogurt externally to relieve itching.

Tip: Do not eat any flavoured or sweetened yoghurts, as they can even aggravate the infection.

2. Coconut Oil

The oil of the coconut is antifungal and soothing to the skin. Coconut oil can be used to treat itching and irritation by rubbing organic, cold-pressed coconut oil on the external vagina.

3. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has potent antifungal ingredients. Add a few drops in a carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) and then apply externally.

Do not put undiluted tea tree oil directly on the skin or put it into the vagina. This may bring on burning or irritation.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

The pH of the vagina can be restored by a lukewarm sitz bath of 1 2 cups of apple cider vinegar. It can also soothe an itch.

Avoid douche with vinegar because it will cause more irritation to the vaginal wall.

5. Garlic

Garlic is a natural antifungal. Consuming raw garlic or taking garlic supplements may help manage fungal overgrowth.

Do not insert garlic cloves into the vagina; despite any old wives’ tales, it can burn you or cause infection.

6. Boric Acid Suppositories

Boric acid is a long-known, safe treatment for recurrent yeast infection. It is to be used only vaginally in suppository form, not orally.

Not suggested whilst pregnant. Please consult a Doctor before use.

Support from Mannat Fertility Centre

Our team at Mannat knows how frequent and painful yeast infections are. We offer personalised, safe and preventative care and treatment so that you can have the confidence and the health you deserve.

We also support women with recurrent infections that are possibly caused by hormonal imbalances, diabetes or fertility problems.