People have the wrong idea that yeast infections are always caused by women not taking good care of their personal hygiene. While that is one of the ways that yeast infections occur, there are many other ways. Keep reading to find out what the lesser known ways are to become the victim of a yeast infection.
For a natural way to fight a mild yeast infection, turn to your pantry for a clove of garlic. You can create a suppository with the garlic by nicking it with a knife and inserting it into the vagina overnight. If you are worried about retrieving it, use a needle to pull a piece of string through the clove. If you experience any irritation, remove the clove promptly.
Wear cotton underwear. Cotton is a material that is cooling and does not lock in moisture and heat; this makes it a suitable material for the genital area. There are a number of cotton styles that are attractive and fit well, so it should not be difficult to stick with this fabric.
If you try to treat your yeast infection at home, see a doctor after a week if it has not cleared up. There are many over-the-counter treatments for yeast infections these days, as well as many home remedies you can try. However, after a week you must realize that you need medical attention so that the infection does not worsen.
If you are on any medications, talk to your doctor about switching them. If you are experiencing regular yeast infections, your medication could be to blame. Many women have found a link between yeast infections and the birth control they are taking. Be sure to speak with your doctor about the possibility of switching to something else.
Stay away from scented feminine hygiene products. The chemicals used to create those pleasing scents can alter your body's natural pH. This creates an environment that is perfect for a colony of yeast to develop. Bypass the scented pads and tampons and opt for all natural products, free from chemical scents and dyes.
As a woman, you may think that douching your vaginal area will help keep you clean; this is actually not true. When you douche, you are stripping the natural protective lining of the vagina, allowing yeast infections to form. Douching also eliminates your body's good bacteria, which leaves you more susceptible to yeast infections.