Yeast infections come in various forms, but there is one fact that remains constant throughout - they usually affect women who are of child bearing age. The cause of this infection, according to medical sources, is the Candida albicans; which is a specific type of yeast. When this yeast naturally builds up in the vagina, imbalances are caused; and a yeast infection results.
It should be noted that steroids, antibiotics, and some birth control pills can cause an unbalance of bacteria, and thus lead to a yeast infection. Also, wearing tight jeans can also help cause the yeast infection, due to the jeans not giving the area room to breathe. While there are many drugs on the market for curing and/or preventing yeast infections, natural remedies can be even more effective in treating yeast infections.
There are many home remedies that have cropped up over the years, and it should be noted that not all of them are real. As such, women should take caution in applying remedies found on the internet, and should consult a doctor before taking action.
The first home remedy that is one of the most effective is consistently putting apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball or cloth, and applying to areas affected by the yeast infection. A downside to this method is that it can often produce an itchy feeling - this can be combated by adding garlic to the area, which naturally reacts with the vinegar to reduce or even remove itchiness. In addition, you might want to consider adding water to the vinegar to dilute it to a more tolerable concentration.
The next home remedy is another one that has reportedly worked wonders. Yogurts or curds are very effective, and it is advised by many to soak a tampon in yogurt or curds and insert it into the infected area for around an hour. The bacteria found in the yogurt will naturally replace the infected yeast bacteria, thus aiding in the healing of a yeast infection. Repeat this process 2-3 times per day until the infection heals itself.
While home remedies for yeast infections are effective, there is nothing more effective than preventing the infection in the first place. One great way to prevent a yeast infection is to drink 1-2 glasses of buttermilk every day, whether you are infected or not. This will keep your bacteria healthy and in good supply, making it much harder to receive a yeast infection.
Dee Cohen is a social worker and yoga teacher. Read more about Home Remedies for Yeast Infection [http://www.squidoo.com/Home-Cure-for-Yeast-Infection1] and get your life back again with the tips at [http://www.squidoo.com/Home-Cure-for-Yeast-Infection1]
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