Okay, ladies, raise your hand if you’ve ever had the itch, down there, and, as if the itch wasn’t enough, the discharge that comes with it. That’s what I thought. So we’ve all been there, struggling to make it through the day with the uncomfortable nasty that is a yeast infection. And the worst part? Fighting the urge to do as the boys do and shamelessly itch, scratch, poke, and prod away at our balls, ahem, lady parts. But enough complaining, it’s time to do something about it.
While vaginal irritation and discharge most often come with a yeast infection, they can actually be symptoms of other vaginal “conditions”, so it’s important to be familiar with exactly what a yeast infection is: the excess of a naturally-occurring bodily fungus called Candida. Other symptoms of a yeast infection can include soreness and rash on the genitals, and burning during urination or sex. Some women get yeast infections regularly as part of their menstrual cycle; repeated and prolonged yeast infections can be an indication of a weakened immune system (and even HIV); and sometimes yeast infections are caused by factors such as excessively tight pants, diet, medication, or hormonal fluctuation. So if you’re not absolutely sure that you have a yeast infection, it’s a good idea to see a doctor for diagnosis before treatment. Read on for treatment options once you have positively identified a yeast infection.
Getting Rid of a Yeast Infection
Over-the-counter lotions, creams, and suppositories may be the most effective way to fight a yeast infection. Products such as Monistat 7, Vagistat, and Femstat all use one of four active anti-fungal ingredients (nitrate, butoconazole nitrate, clotrimazole, and tioconazole) to break down the Candida fungus and restore healthy yeast levels.
Wear breathable, loose clothing. Many yeast infections are caused or further irritated by tight, synthetic (unbreathable) undies, stockings, pants, etc., which trap in heat and moisture, allowing natural yeast bacteria to go forth and multiply into a full-blown yeast infection. Balance out the yeast levels in your crotch by wearing clean cotton underwear, avoiding tight clothing, and even daring to go commando.
Keep your crotch clean and dry. This may be a major “duh”, but one of the best ways to treat a yeast infection is to wash yourself thoroughly at least once a day. Use soap without excessive dyes or scents, and dry your crotch afterwards with a cool, clean cotton cloth or towel. This will soothe the irritating symptoms of a yeast infection, as well as hinder further yeast growth.
Avoid chemicals that may irritate or worsen a yeast infection. The inks, dyes, and perfumes found in crotch-contacting tampons, condoms, hygiene sprays, soap, toilet paper, laundry detergent, clothing, and fabric softener can trigger infections. Watch for patterns of vaginal irritation and yeast infections when using such products, and try using all-natural, environmentally friendly alternatives.
Yeast infections can be sexually transmitted (by and to both sexes). If you or your partner has a yeast infection, avoid prolonging or sharing the infection by not having sex until the infection is gone, or practicing sex with condoms—but watch out for spermicides and lubricants that can cause further irritation (see the note on chemicals above).Medical Treatment for Yeast Infections
If your own treatments don’t seem to be working, and your yeast infection is getting worse or just not going away, it’s probably time to seek professional help. A doctor can diagnose your yeast infection, or any other type of vaginal infection, by identifying the fungus itself, and if the infection is serious and/or recurring often, a doctor will be able to prescribe additional oral or topical medication fight the yeast infection.
Persistent, unresponsive, and exaggerated symptoms of a yeast infection may indicate a more serious vaginal infection or condition. If you're in pain or extreme discomfort, see a doctor immediately.
