Yeast infections are caused by overproduction of yeast or yeast and can cause irritation, discharge, and inflammation of the vagina and vulva. Three out of four women will develop a yeast infection during their lifetime and most are infected at least twice. If you are reluctant to use chemical remedies to treat infection, consider natural suppositories and try to relieve symptoms at home. You should also learn to prevent other infections from occurring in the future. Know that the most effective way to treat a yeast infection is to see a doctor and get a prescription or over-the-counter medication.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Using Natural Suppositories
Step 1. Try a boric acid suppository
Boric acid can be an effective home remedy for yeast infections because it has antifungal and antiseptic properties. In addition, boric acid has also been shown to prevent yeast growth. You can use it in the form of a suppository capsule and insert it into the vagina 2 times a day for a week.
- Never apply boric acid powder directly to your vagina or skin as it can cause irritation. You should also not ingest boric acid as it is potentially fatal if swallowed.
- Use boric acid suppositories for no more than 5 to 7 days. If symptoms do not improve, go to the doctor.
- You can buy boric acid suppositories at your local health food store or order them from a naturopath. Alternatively, you can also make your own by filling a gelatin capsule, size 0, with 600 mg of boric acid.
Step 2. Use probiotic suppositories
Probiotics can help maintain vaginal health and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the vagina. Try consuming one cup of yogurt daily to provide your vagina with healthy probiotics or inserting a probiotic suppository into your vagina to treat yeast infections.
- Probiotics can be found in natural plain yogurt. Make your own probiotic suppository at home using sterile size 0 capsules. Fill the capsule with yogurt and close the lid. Probiotic suppositories are ready to use.
- You can buy probiotic suppositories at your local health food store or order them from a naturopath.
- Do not apply yogurt directly to the vagina or vulva. Use probiotic suppositories for 5 to 7 days only. If symptoms do not improve, you should see a doctor.
Step 3. Consider a tea tree oil suppository
Tea tree essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Some women have tried inserting a tampon soaked in tea tree oil into the vagina to help treat yeast infections.
- However, you should use this method with caution as the vagina is very sensitive and inserting tea tree oil can make the infection worse.
- If you experience negative symptoms or if your vagina is getting irritated or inflamed, stop using this method and see a doctor.
Method 2 of 4: Relieve Symptoms at Home
Step 1. Soak in warm water
You can try to relieve symptoms of a yeast infection at home by soaking in warm water or taking a sitz bath. This method can help reduce symptoms and relieve discomfort in the vaginal area.
- A sitz bath is performed using a special small tub that allows you to soak your hips and buttocks. A sitz bath is not the same as soaking in a hot tub or Jacuzzi.
- Do not soak for more than 15 to 20 minutes. Longer duration does not guarantee the infection can heal faster.
Step 2. Use a cold, wet cloth to compress the vaginal area
Another solution is to compress the area under the abdomen or vagina with a cool, wet cloth to help reduce symptoms. Apply compressions until you feel relaxed and the pain subsides.
Make sure you change the cloth regularly so that the problem area is kept clean
Step 3. Do not rub the vaginal area
Although a yeast infection can cause the vaginal area to feel itchy or irritated, you shouldn't rub it. Rubbing or scratching the problem area can make the infection worse. We recommend that you try other methods to relieve symptoms.
If the vaginal area becomes very itchy or irritated, you may need to consult a doctor
Method 3 of 4: Talking to the Doctor
Step 1. Visit a doctor if symptoms do not improve
If you feel your symptoms are not improving, instead of using home remedies, go to the doctor. This step is especially important if you are pregnant or having a yeast infection for the first time. Consult a doctor if you are not sure whether you have a yeast infection or other symptoms that may indicate another health problem.
- In the case of an uncomplicated yeast infection, you may experience itching and irritation of the vagina and/or the tissue at the mouth of the vagina known as the vulva. You may also experience a burning sensation when urinating or during sex. You may notice a thick, white, odorless discharge from your vagina.
- In the case of a yeast infection with complications, you may experience more serious symptoms, such as swelling and itching that causes the vaginal skin to blister, crack or sting. You may have recurrent infections four or more times a year.
Step 2. Let the doctor do some tests
During your consultation with your doctor, you may have to answer a series of questions about your medical history and how long you have had yeast infection symptoms. Next, the doctor may perform a pelvic exam to look for signs of infection. During the exam, he or she will insert a speculum to examine the vagina and cervix.
- Your doctor may also take a sample of vaginal discharge and order tests to determine the type of fungus responsible for your yeast infection.
- The doctor may ask about your habits in cleaning the vagina. For example, did you do a vaginal douche and whether you had any vaginal health problems before and what treatments were done. You should also ask your doctor about ways to prevent future yeast infections.
Step 3. Discuss treatment options that are suitable for you
Your doctor will recommend certain treatments based on your symptoms. If you have an uncomplicated yeast infection, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal medication in the form of a cream, ointment, tablet, or suppository. You may have to take medication for 1 to 7 days to help treat the yeast infection.
- Your doctor may also recommend a single dose of an oral medication or the use of over-the-counter medications to treat yeast infections. A single dose of oral medication can help treat the infection within a few days. Over-the-counter creams and suppositories can often be used during pregnancy and will clear the symptoms of infection in 3 to 7 days.
- If you have a yeast infection with complications and have serious symptoms, your doctor may recommend long-term vaginal therapy. During this period you will use the medication in the form of a cream, ointment, tablet or suppository for 7 to 14 days.
Method 4 of 4: Preventing Yeast Infections
Step 1. Avoid vaginal douches
Do not douche or wash the vagina using anything other than clean running water. Soaps or other substances can interfere with the natural pH level of the vagina.
Get into the habit of bathing or washing the vaginal area after sexual intercourse to prevent other people's bacteria from being in the vagina
Step 2. Wear cotton underwear
Wearing underwear made of materials that allow the skin to breathe, such as cotton, can help prevent the growth of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. Avoid underwear made of synthetic materials and try not to wear panty hoses or tight jeans. You should also immediately change to wet bathing suits or sweaty workout clothes.
If possible, try not to wear underwear. Wearing long skirts without panties allows air to enter the vagina and reduces the risk of vaginal infections
Step 3. Use the contraceptive pill without estrogen
Taking birth control pills that contain estrogen, such as the combination birth control pill, can increase the amount of yeast in your vagina and make you more susceptible to infection. Therefore, choose a contraceptive pill without estrogen such as the progestin mini pill or an Intrauterine Device (IUD).
If you use condoms as a method of contraception, choose a product that does not contain spermicide to avoid vaginal irritation. You should also use a water-based lubricant during sex to reduce friction or irritation as this can disrupt the vaginal ecology
Tips
- Don't forget to always wash your hands thoroughly before and after using this remedy.
- Consult your doctor if you experience any negative side effects while trying any of these methods.
- Vinegar water is also very effective for treating yeast infections during pregnancy… based on experience.
