Yeast Infections: Treatment and Prevention
Vaginal yeast infections are both common and something you shouldn’t take lightly. Like any illness or symptom that appears in the body, it’s a sign of imbalance and an indication that attention is needed.
What is a Yeast Infection?
Yeast infections are fungal - so don’t go rushing out for antibiotics. Often antibiotic use can be the cause of a yeast infection. This overgrowth of vaginal fungus comes from a change in the vaginal environment - medications, poor airflow, hot environments, hormonal changes, weakened immune systems, blood sugar imbalance, hormonal contraceptives, and poor diet can all throw off your vaginal pH.
Let’s break down what a yeast infection might present as, and what you can do to treat one.
How do I know if I have a yeast infection?
If you have had a yeast infection, you probably know it’s pretty obvious to recognize. It’s typical that you will see changes in your vaginal discharge, experience itching or burning internally or around the vaginal opening, pain during intercourse, red or swollen vulva, and pain when urinating.
The change in vaginal discharge can be anything from a light watery substance to full-blown white and chunky. You’ll hear “cottage cheese” used to describe that consistency. It may be white, or slightly yellow in colour.
Read on for tips on how to manage and clear up a yeast infection!
How do I manage a yeast infection? ✨
Because a yeast infection is actually the overgrowth of candida albicans it must be treated using antifungal methods. Antibiotics won’t work here!
Hydrate with lemon water - your body is fighting off an infection and the last thing it needs is dehydrated cells, add lemon in for liver support
Avoid sugar, processed and inflammatory foods, and alcohol - you’re trying to starve off an infection, all of these foods only further contribute to the overgrowth of candida in the body and can prolong your infection
Avoid intercourse until it’s cleared up - sex can further contribute to an imbalanced vaginal environment and you don’t want to make it worse, and make sure to use glycerin and fragrance-free lube to avoid future infections!
Use a vaginal probiotic like this one to support the production of good bacteria and imbalance correction
Wash often with water and avoid all scented products and soaps near the vaginal area
Wear cotton underwear to optimize airflow and change out of workout clothes or bathing suits immediately
Do not use vaginal douches - they will only further infection and can cause recurring yeast infections
Eat live-supporting foods like broccoli, lemon, kale, raw carrots, garlic, onions, apple cider vinegar
Take D-Mannos powder to support urinary tract health
Take oil of oregano capsules or rub on the soles of your feet diluted with a carrier oil *do not rub anywhere near the vaginal area
Apply castor oil packs to the abdomen 1-2 times per day (check out these wraps to use with your castor oil!)
Add a cup of baking soda to a warm bath - do not use any soaps or scented products
Preventing Yeast Infection Reoccurrence
It’s important to optimize both external and internal environments when managing a yeast infection. Take care to stay hydrated, have lots of airflow around the vaginal opening, and minimize inflammatory foods. Avoid long periods in hot environments and overuse of antibiotics, make sure to wear cotton underwear, and keep a clean diet to avoid candida overgrowth.
If your yeast infections are recurring it’s important to seek guidance as lifestyle and dietary changes may be necessary. A fertility coach can help you find the root cause of your recurring infections. Book a 1:1 Coaching Session to start!
As you continue your hormone-balancing journey remember that support is available every step of the way. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, I invite you to book a free discovery call to learn more about developing a plan to meet your health goals. Together, we can navigate the complexities of your cycle and get to the root of your hormone imbalance.
