What is Vaginal Yeast Infection? How to Treatment it at Home?
A vaginal yeast infection is a type of fungal infection that mostly affects the female genital area, mainly the vagina and the vulva. It is commonly caused by an overgrowth of bacteria (Candida Albicans). Around 75% of females will experience vaginal infections at some point in their lives, making it one of the most common health issues among women.
Mild to extreme itching in the vaginal and around the vulva area is the most common sign & symptom of Vaginal Yeast infection.
Other symptoms may vary in the severity of the infection condition including:
- An itchy, red, or swollen vagina, as well as a rash on the vagina and vulva area.
- Burning during urinating
- Abnormal vaginal discharge like thick cottage cheese, lumpy white discharge.
- Vaginal pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Also Read: Urinary Tract Infection in Female – Important Things to Know
Causes of Vaginal Infection
- Women can contract vaginal candidiasis from men through sexual contact or both men and women can have vaginal yeast infections or vaginal candidiasis as a result of multiple sexual partners.
- Poor vaginal hygiene can also lead to vaginal infection
- A suppressed immune system and uncontrolled diabetes may cause vaginal infection.
- In addition to improper dietary habits like consuming too many sugary meals causes yeast infection.
- Hormonal changes brought on by pregnancy or monthly periods may encourage vaginal infection.
- A yeast infection is also more likely to affect women who use specific medications like antibiotics, steroids, and birth control pills.
Vaginal Infection treatments at home
You can treat your vaginal yeast infection in various ways in the comfort of your home.
- Applying coconut oil or tea tree oil/cream is an effective home treatment for mild to moderate vaginal infections. Before applying oils or creams to your vagina, make sure your hands are thoroughly clean.
- Applying or placing plain yoghurt into the vagina may also aid to cure the simple yeast infection. Consuming yoghurt may aid in preventing a repeat of this problem and stopping yeast infections.
- There are numerous over-the-counter medications, antifungal creams, ointment, or suppositories that can be used to cure simple vaginal infections, such as Butoconazole, Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Terconazole, and Fluconazole, among others.
- Home Treatments are typically based on the condition of your symptoms. All home treatments can be effective if you have a mild or simple infection.
In addition, several simple precautions may help to prevent vaginal infection.
- Pay extra attention to the cleanliness of your vaginal area possible to prevent infection.
- Change your pad or tampon regularly while having menstruation.
- Using cotton and breathable panties helps prevent yeast infections.
- You can avoid the infection by avoiding scented feminine products.
- Wipe properly from front to back after a bowel movement to prevent yeasts from being transferred to the vaginal area.
- Use antibiotics only when necessary because misuse of antibiotics can also cause vaginal infections in women.
Conclusion: Additionally, these home treatments could not live up to the expectations of an overnight cure; instead, if you want a long-lasting solution to bacterial vaginal infection, you must use these treatments continuously for a few weeks.