There are some microorganisms living on our body that help us such as ‘good bacteria’ which work with the immune system. There are also some that either do nothing at all or actually cause us harm. One of these is called Candida Albicans and it is a fungus. The good bacteria work to keep the numbers of this fungus at low levels and while that is happening we stay healthy. But if the good bacteria are killed or something trigger an imbalance, the fungus will grow very quickly into larger numbers that will cause us harm as it causes a yeast infection.
Rather than having to treat a yeast infection if you know the triggers you can take steps to prevent it ever being a problem for you! Here are a few thing you can do. Wear clothing that is not too tight. Tight clothing makes you sweaty as the air is not circulating, and the yeast will thrive in that kind of warm and wet environment. When choosing underwear opt for cotton as it allows the skin to breathe and so you are more likely to stay dry.
What you eat and drink can be a trigger for an overgrowth so look at your diet as another way to prevent a yeast infection. Foods to cut down on or completely cut out are junk, processed and refined. Also avoid yeasty foods like beer or bread and sugar. The fungus feeds on sugar, so the more sugar you eat the more you are feeding the fungus and helping it to grow. Foods you can eat more of that can help are cranberries or the juice, probiotic yogurt, vegetables and drinking lots of water.
Clean regularly but use simple, unscented soaps. Avoid harsh chemicals in your detergent, and do not use any sprays or scented products there. Do not douche as this kills the good bacteria in the vagina. If still having sex use water based lubrication not petroleum. Note that pregnant women are more likely to get a yeast infection because of the changes in hormones and if this is you visit a doctor.
Treatment AS well as over the counter treatments there are natural remedies that are effective. Yogurt, as well as being consumed, can also be used direct on the infection. A solution of 3 tablespoons of vinegar mixed in a quart of water can be used to wash the area. Avoid having sex as it can be passed back and forth between you. Garlic is another effective natural cure, used raw, eaten or inserted like a tampon. Finally gentian violet is another one of many natural treatments, that can be used on the vulva.
For more info on how to deal with candida, check out our yeast infection cure website, where you can find plenty of information on the subject. Today’s special: recurring yeast infections