How to Fight Yeast Infections

Healthy vaginas have a small amount of yeast cells and bacteria to keep the yeast under control. When this balance is off-set, too much yeast may grow, causing a yeast infection. Symptoms are mostly annoying, such as itching and soreness, and occasionally burning upon urination or sexual intercourse. However, yeast infections are not serious and are easily treatable.

Things You'll Need

• topical cream, suppository or oral tablet

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Instructions

Fight Yeast Infections

• 1

  Identify that what you are experiencing is in fact, a yeast infection. Most commonly occurring the week before menstruation, symptoms of a yeast infection also include white, cottage cheese-like discharge. Antibiotics can eliminate the good bacteria in the vagina that maintains the yeast balance. If you are unsure that what you are suffering from is a yeast infection, Vagisil offers a test kit.

• 2

  Ensure you are not pregnant. Pregnant women should not treat yeast infections at home.

• 3

  Over-the-counter treatments come in the form of creams, which can be applied topically, or inserted with an applicator. Suppositories, an alternative to the messy creams, should be inserted directly into the vagina. You can also take antifungal tablets orally. Popular brands for treatment include Monistat and Vagisil.

• 4

  Ideally, you want to prevent yeast infections. Keep your vaginal area dry and allow it to breathe by only wearing cotton underwear, or sleeping without any underwear at all. Also, change out of wet bathing suits after swimming. Finally, opt for tampons that do not have deodorant.