A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva — the tissues at the vaginal opening. Also called vaginal candidiasis, vaginal yeast infection affects up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their lifetimes. Many women experience at least two episodes. A vaginal yeast infection isn’t considered a sexually transmitted infection. But, there’s an increased risk of vaginal yeast infection at the time of first regular sexual activity. There’s also some evidence that infections may be linked to mouth to genital contact (oral-genital sex).
Yeast infection symptoms
Vaginal yeast infections have a common set of symptoms, such as:
- vaginal itching
- swelling around the vagina
- burning during urination or sex
- pain during sex
- soreness
- redness
- rash
Whitish-gray and clumpy vaginal discharge is another telltale symptom. Some people say this discharge looks like cottage cheese. Sometimes the discharge may also be watery. Usually the length of time your yeast infection is left untreated has a direct impact on how severe your symptoms may become.
A yoghurt tampon
A yoghurt tampon is dipped in yoghurt, as yoghurt contains lactic acid bacteria and cools the infected vagina. Natural lactic acid bacteria are important for a healthy vagina since they maintain the acidity of the vaginal milieu and ward off any unwanted pathogens. SEE: Yoghurt Tampon Overnight
How to use yoghurt tampon for a yeast infection
According to the research studies cited above, the best way to use yogurt for the treatment of a yeast infection is to apply it topically or vaginally. Just be sure to use a plain yogurt with no added sweeteners.
To apply yogurt vaginally:
- Take a tampon out of its applicator. Fill the applicator with yogurt, and use it to insert yogurt into your vagina.
- You can also use an old applicator from an antifungal cream. But be sure to wash it first with soap and warm water.
- Freeze the yogurt first. Some people freeze yogurt inside a tampon applicator. Others use the finger of a latex glove. You could even put it in an ice cube tray. It will be cold, but soothing.
- Or you can just use your fingers to get as much into your vagina as you can.
Many people believe that eating yogurt can treat or prevent a yeast infection. This theory is mostly anecdotal, but adding healthy bacteria into your body can’t hurt.
Some people take probiotics that contain lactobacillus. One literature review found that there is promising, but not conclusive, research suggesting that probiotics can help prevent yeast infections in women who get three or more per year.
Yeast infection prevention
Chances are that you know exactly what led to your yeast infection. For example, some women experience these infections every time they take antibiotics. Whether you know the exact cause, here are some habits you can adopt and avoid to help prevent recurring infections.
Take up:
- eating a well-balanced diet
- eating yogurt or taking supplements with lactobacillus
- wearing natural fibers such as cotton, linen, or silk
- washing underwear in hot water
- replacing feminine products frequently
Avoid:
- wearing tight pants, pantyhose, tights, or leggings
- using feminine deodorant or scented tampons or pads
- sitting around in wet clothing, especially bathing suits
- sitting in hot tubs or taking frequent hot baths
- douching
ALSO SEE: How To Properly Wash Your Vagina
