Fungal infections are caused by an overproduction of fungi and can produce irritation, secretions and inflammation of the vagina and vulva. Three out of four women develop candidiasis and many are infected at least twice in their lifetime. If you're reluctant to take medications for candidiasis, try relieving the symptoms on your own. You should also learn how to prevent these types of infections from developing. However, keep in mind that the best way to treat a fungal infection is to see your doctor and take prescribed medications to fix the problem.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Relieve the Symptoms at Home
Step 1. Take a warm bath
Try relieving symptoms at home by taking a warm bath or sitz bath. This will help reduce the severity of the infection and relieve pain in the vaginal region.
- The sitz bath is a container similar to a bathtub but shorter, which allows you to partially immerse yourself in the water (only the pelvis and buttocks). It is different from the hot tub.
- Do not exceed 15-20 minutes. A longer bath will not make the infection go away sooner.
Step 2. Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area
Another option is to place a cool, damp washcloth on the lower abdomen or vaginal area to relieve symptoms. Leave it on until you feel more relaxed and the pain goes away.
Change it periodically, so that the area to be treated remains clean
Step 3. Avoid scrubbing
Despite the itching and irritation caused by vaginal candidiasis, you shouldn't scratch. By rubbing, you risk worsening the infection. Instead, use other options to relieve these symptoms.
If the itching and irritation are severe, you should consult your doctor
Step 4. Test the boric acid pessaries
Boric acid is an excellent home treatment against candidiasis because it has antifungal and antiseptic properties. It has also been shown to prevent the proliferation of fungi. You can use it in the form of eggs and apply it in the vagina 2 times a day, for 1 week.
- Do not use boric acid powder directly in the vagina or on the skin as it can cause irritation. Also, do not ingest it as it can be lethal.
- Use the eggs for only 5-7 days. If your symptoms don't improve, see your doctor.
- You can buy them at the pharmacy. Alternatively, you can prepare them by filling the empty, size 0 gelatin capsules with 600 mg of boric acid.
Step 5. Increase your yogurt intake or use a vaginal probiotic
Probiotics promote the health of the vagina and prevent the proliferation of harmful bacteria in this environment. Try eating 240ml of yogurt every day to build up on probiotics, or put them in capsule form in your vagina to fight candidiasis.
- Probiotics are found in yogurt you buy at the grocery store. You can make the capsules yourself using the empty, size 0 capsules. Fill them with yogurt and close them so that you get ova of probiotics.
- You can buy vaginal probiotics in capsule form at the pharmacy.
- Do not apply yogurt directly into the vagina or vulva. Use probiotics in capsules for only 5-7 days. If your symptoms don't improve, see your doctor.
Method 2 of 3: Contact your Gynecologist
Step 1. See your gynecologist if your symptoms don't improve
If you notice any worsening despite home care, you should see your gynecologist, especially if you are pregnant or if this is your first time suffering from candidiasis. You should also consult it if you are unsure if you have a fungal infection or if you develop other symptoms that could indicate another health problem.
- If candidiasis is not severe, you may feel itching and irritation of the vagina and / or the tissues surrounding the vaginal opening, the vulva. You may also feel a burning sensation when you urinate or have sex, and notice thick, whitish, odorless discharge.
- If it is severe, you have more prominent symptoms, such as swelling and itching that cause lacerations, lesions, or sores around the vagina. You may also experience 4 or more candidiasis episodes per year.
Step 2. Undergo a gynecological examination
At the gynecologist's office, you will need to answer a series of questions about your medical history and the timing of symptoms. The doctor will conduct a visit consisting of a pelvic exam, looking for signs of infection. To proceed, he will have to insert the speculum to observe the vagina and cervix.
- He may also take a sample of vaginal discharge so that he can analyze it and determine the type of fungus causing the infection.
- In addition, she may ask you what your intimate hygiene habits are, namely if you use douches and if you have ever treated a vaginal health problem before. Ask him how you can prevent candidiasis in the future.
Step 3. Discuss the treatment
The gynecologist will prescribe a therapy based on your symptoms. If the infection is not severe, he may prescribe an antifungal medication in the form of a cream, ointment, tablet, or pessary. You will likely need to take it for 1-7 days to promote healing.
- He may also point you to a single-dose oral medication or topical treatment. Single-dose oral medications help fight candidiasis within days. The creams and pessaries can be applied during pregnancy and will eradicate the infection within 3-7 days.
- If the situation is serious and is accompanied by a significant symptom set, he may prescribe a long-term vaginal therapy, consisting of drugs in the form of cream, ointment, tablets or pessaries for 7-14 days.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing Candidiasis
Step 1. Do not use douches
Avoid resorting to douching and do not wash the genital region except with simple running water. Using cleansers or other substances can compromise the natural pH of the vagina.
You should make it a habit to shower and wash your private parts after each intercourse to prevent bacteria from colonizing the vaginal environment
Step 2. Put on cotton underwear
Underwear made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton, helps prevent the proliferation of fungi and bacteria in the vagina. Avoid briefs made from synthetic materials, tights, and skinny jeans. Also you should change your swimsuit as soon as it gets wet and sweaty gym clothes.
If you can, try going without underwear. Wearing a long skirt without panties will allow the vaginal canal to get air and reduce the risk of developing yeast infections
Step 3. Use an estrogen-free contraceptive
The use of estrogen-based birth control methods, such as pills, can increase the amount of fungus in the vaginal area and promote the development of infections. You can opt for an estrogen-free method, such as progestogen-only pills.
- If you use condoms to avoid unwanted pregnancies, choose one that is free of spermicides so as not to irritate the vagina. Additionally, you should use a water-based lubricant during sexual intercourse to prevent friction and irritation, which risk altering the vaginal flora.
- Keep in mind that intrauterine devices are also associated with the increase of fungal infections.
Step 4. Reduce your sugar intake and consumption of processed foods
If blood glucose values are altered, the risk of developing recurrent episodes of candidiasis is higher. If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar in check and cut down on your consumption of processed foods and refined sugars. These tips will help you prevent yeast infections.
If you are diabetic, keep your blood sugar at bay by following your doctor's advice
Advice
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying any of these treatments.
- If you experience any negative side effects after performing any of these methods, consult your gynecologist.
