Vaginal yeast infections are a common, irritating condition in the lives of many women. In fact, up to 75% of women will have a yeast infection at some point in their lives. Infection of the vaginal mucosa by yeast called Candida (most commonly Candida albicans) results in local inflammation and causes a number of uncomfortable symptoms. In a small percentage of cases, the yeast infections can become chronic, which means that they occur more than 4 times a year. This is often a sign of some other underlying condition or imbalance.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Yeast Infections?

Local infection of the vagina and surrounding vulva can cause a variety of symptoms, including itching, pain, redness, discomfort, and a thick white discharge that resembles cottage cheese. If the infection progresses and becomes more severe, the vagina can swell, and a fissure (crack) can develop, causing painful sores in the area. Most commonly, women suffering from a yeast infection will first complain of burning, soreness, and pain during intercourse, along with an increased discharge.

What Causes Yeast Infections?

Candida overgrowth causes yeast infection symptoms, but underlying imbalances often trigger that overgrowth. Bacteria and candida naturally live in the vagina and help maintain balance. The most common cause of imbalance in women is the hormone fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle. Natural vaginal flora changes throughout the menstrual cycle. Changes in pH and secretions during menstruation can reduce beneficial bacteria like lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. When the natural bacterial flora disappears, it leaves more available nutrients and space for Candida to grow and flourish, which can quickly become an overgrowth. Several factors can disrupt natural vaginal flora. These include pH-imbalanced douches, antibiotics, and conditions like diabetes and AIDS.

Chronic Yeast Infections & Underlying Illness

A very common cause of recurring yeast infections is unregulated high blood sugar levels caused by diabetes. With access to far more sugar than normal, both bacteria and yeast can grow excessively in the vagina and cause symptoms of infection. AIDS can weaken the immune system and reduce its ability to regulate vaginal flora. Hormonal imbalances can also disrupt vaginal flora and increase yeast infection risk. Hormonal contraceptives may contribute to yeast infections in some people. Recurring yeast infections can sometimes occur during early pregnancy. It is important with chronic yeast infections to discover what is going on beneath the surface, as recurring infections can be a sign of a larger problem.

Are There Prevention Tips For Yeast Infections?

Even if you monitor your overall health and hormonal balance to prevent these disruptions, Yeast Infections can still occur. Some contributing factors are the use of vaginal douches, so avoiding these can help to prevent infections. Simply wash the external vulva with gentle soap and water and dry. The vagina will naturally maintain itself using its own secretions, and using harsh cleansers can unbalance this effect. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing, and give the vagina and surrounding vulva time to "breathe" during the day or night, as proper aeration can help to prevent microbial overgrowth. This means spending time not wearing underwear or using breathable natural fabrics such as cotton or bamboo.

What Yeast Infection Treatment Options Are Available?

Conventional Treatments

The most common over-the-counter and prescription treatments for Yeast Infections are antifungal drugs such as Nystatin and Butoconazole. These can come as topical creams, vaginal suppositories or pills. According to research, these medications are ineffective in up to 20% of cases, which means that they fail to clear the infection in 7-10 days. Some medications can also have side effects such as headache and nausea.

Home Treatments

One common home remedy for yeast infections is the use of garlic. It can be eaten at anywhere from 1-3 cloves a day (raw is preferable to maintain the active constituents). Alternatively, some practitioners recommend using garlic internally. Some people use garlic as a home remedy for yeast infections. Pierce a garlic clove several times with a fork before use. Thread string or floss through the clove for easier removal. Some people insert the clove into the vagina overnight. If removal concerns you, wrap crushed garlic in cheesecloth first. Tie the cheesecloth securely before insertion. Garlic may irritate sensitive tissue in some people. However, many people are uncomfortable with inserting garlic internally, so you can supplement with garlic extract instead to help kill off the excess yeast, although this may take a few more days to be effective. The active constituents in the garlic will kill off excess Candida, whether used internally or by mouth. If you combine this with probiotic supplementation, most yeast infections will clear in as little as one treatment, although some may take a few days of repeated use.

Supplement Support

Probiotics
One of the easiest ways to treat the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection is through the use of probiotics. There are a number of products particularly targeted at vaginal colonization, and they can be supplemented either by mouth or as direct vaginal suppositories. Be sure to find a supplement that emphasizes Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium longus, and Bifidobacterium bifidus.

Caprylic Acid
One antifungal agent that has been proven to be effective against Candida is Caprylic Acid. Although it is generally used for systemic yeast overload, this supplement can help to reduce vaginal Candida infections as well.

Grapefruit Seed Extract
This potent extract can be used topically and internally to kill Candida inside and out.

Diet and Lifestyle
Reducing your sugar intake and ensuring you drink enough water are two ways you can help your body to fight off the infection. Get enough sleep and be sure to take care of yourself. Often these small infections are a sign that our immune system is run down and we may need to take some time to replenish and rest.

Key Facts About Yeast Infections

If symptoms persist for longer than one week, or if you have chronic yeast infections (more than 4 per year), seek advice from your healthcare provider. Do not use formulas intended for internal use externally or in the vagina, as they may cause further irritation.

The following list of supplements can be used for preventing and treating vaginal yeast infections. Adult doses are given. Ensure all products are yeast-free. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, seek advice from a health professional before beginning treatment.