If you want to have any hope of combating the recurring problem of vaginal yeast infection, you should have all the information that is available about the condition. This would include the cause, initial symptoms, possible complications, conventional treatment options and natural remedies that can rid you of the problem forever.
The goal of this article is to provide you with all the information that you will ever need to combat the resilient issue of vaginal yeast infections.
Causes of vaginal yeast infections
Vaginal yeast infections can be caused by various kinds of fungus that can attack the body and increase in numbers to cause specific symptoms of vaginal yeast infections. However, the one kind of fungus that causes problems in most women is called Candida albicans, which is a form of yeast. It should be understood that the mere presence of Candida in the pubic area does not cause vaginal yeast infection. It is only when the yeast becomes predominant and increases in numbers that the symptoms begin to occur.
The various causes of a preponderance of Candida albicans in the vaginal area are:
- Extensive use of antibiotics that kill good bacteria that keep the fungus under check
- Weak immune system that is unable to fight the growth of the yeast
- Medical conditions, like diabetes, that aid the growth of the yeast by providing a favorable and sugary environment.
It should also be noted that practices such as using perfumed deodorants and vaginal douches, moist and warm environment and improper diet add to the possibilities of getting a vaginal yeast infection. The use of spermicidal products can also kill the good bacteria making vaginal yeast infections a likely result.
Symptoms of vaginal yeast infections
Vaginal itching, burning, irritation and painful urination and intercourse are the main symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection. These are normally accompanied by inflammation and odorless vaginal discharge that may be thick and whitish or watery in consistency.
Left untreated, these vaginal yeast infections can aggravate and cause a lot of pain. Other symptoms of the digestive tract like constipation, diarrhea and bloating can also start to appear. Mood swings, depression, lack of focus, memory issues and short attention span have also been noticed among those who have chronic vaginal yeast infections.
Conventional treatment options for vaginal yeast infections
Topical antifungal creams like butoconazole, clotrimazole and terconazole are available over the counter for treatment. These are fairly effective in relieving the symptoms of a yeast infection because the creams kill the fungus or yeast that is causing problems. However, the affect is limited to the local area of application and there if no effect on the overall root cause of the condition.
When symptoms aggravate, physicians tend to treat the vaginal yeast infection with antibiotics. This is a treatment option that should be avoided as much as possible because it increases the chances of the yeast multiplying even further.
There is no doubt about the fact that the antibiotics are effective in killing the yeast and removing it from the system. However, the strong medicines also result in killing the good bacteria that maintain the balance in the system. So after the initial cure, the attacks of yeast on the body can become even more severe leading to complications.
Permanent cure options for vaginal yeast infections
The only permanent cure for vaginal yeast infections is a holistic and natural approach that can help in restoring the body’s natural capability of keeping the yeast under control. These natural remedies include application of yogurt, tea tree oil, essential oils of oregano and garlic to the vaginal area, consumption of yogurt and garlic, a nutritive diet that does not contain too much sugar or junk food and breathing exercises that can help in maintaining the overall immunity levels of the body.