How to Get Rid of Yeast Infection

It all begins with an itchy feeling 'down there' that gets worse with time. Most women have suffered from yeast infection at some point in their life. Many dismiss it as discomfort caused due to a pair of tight jeans. However, if the itchy feeling persists even when one is out of tight clothing, it is time to check if you are suffering from candidiasis or yeast infection.

This infection is caused by a fungus technically called Candida. Although it is very common among teenage girls and women aged 16 to 35 male yeast infection can also occur. No wonder women all over the world want to know how to get rid of yeast infection.

Yeast Infection - Symptoms

Candida albicans (a fungus), the culprit that causes this infection, is normally present in the vagina. However, when there is an overabundance of the fungus, women may suffer from yeast infection. The symptoms of this infection includes:

• Severe itching
• Redness in the outer wall of the vagina (vulva)
• Vaginal odor
• Vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
• Acne
• Chronic rashes
• Pain during intercourse
• Burning sensation, specially during urination

While these are the symptoms of yeast infection, all women do not experience all these symptoms.

How to Get Rid of Yeast Infection?

• The most common way to treat yeast infection is to buy over-the-counter lotions and ointments that have anti-fungal ingredients like nitrate, butoconazole nitrate, clotrimazole, and tioconazole. However, for those who have the infection for the first time, it is best to refer to a doctor and have the condition diagnosed rather than making a run for the chemist's shop.
• An easy remedy to cure yeast infection is to eat one or two cloves of garlic daily. Garlic has anti-fungal properties that helps to fight the Candida fungus. One could also make a tampon of garlic. Peel a single clove of garlic and wrap it in a cheese cloth. Tie it off with dental floss or a waxed thread to keep it in place. Using this tampon for a couple of hours yields better relief from the yeast infection.
• Plain, unsweetened yogurt works as an excellent yeast infection home remedy. Natural, unsweetened yogurt contains a friendly bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus that fights off the yeast infection. Apply the yogurt to the infected area using a syringe with no needle. One can also fill a tampon applicator with yogurt and allow it to freeze, then insert it in the vagina. One could also take acidophilus tablets available at the local health food supermarket.
• Douche the affected area with apple cider vinegar or drink it by adding 2 tablespoons of it to a glass of water daily. To make a douche, add 2 cups of vinegar to a warm bath and soak the infected area in it. Apple cider vinegar works by restoring the pH of the vaginal environment so that the excess Candida can't survive.
• One of the tea tree oil benefits is that its antiseptic properties is useful in treating yeast infection. Adding a few drops to warm water can bring relief from the infection.
• Eating cranberries lowers the pH of urine. As urine passes out of the body it increases the acidity of the vaginal environment, which will wash the infected areas 'clean' of the yeast.
• Wear loose fitting comfortable clothes. Yeast infection may be caused or aggravated by wearing tight synthetic undergarments or pants. These also trap moisture and heat around the crotch that triggers the growth of the Candida fungus.
• Keep the area dry and clean. Ensure that your body as well as your undergarments are dry before you wear them. Stay away from fragrant body washes and scented shaving creams. Dry yourself thoroughly with a fresh clean towel after a bath.
• Yeast infection can be sexually transmitted in both men and women. Hence, a couple must refrain from intercourse in case any one of the partners has an infection. Use of a condom may minimize the transfer of this infection. However, it is best not to indulge in intercourse until the infection heals completely.

Yeast infection treatment is not difficult. Now that you know how to get rid of yeast infection, it will be easier for you to deal with it. However, it is advisable to get it diagnosed by a doctor when one has it for the first time. If the symptoms persist even after having resorted to home treatment, see a doctor immediately.