How to get rid of a yeast infection fast
Vaginal yeast infections may not be something women talk about a lot. But they’re super common. In fact, a whopping three out of four people with vaginas will experience at least one yeast infection at some point in their life. But what exactly is a yeast infection? What causes this type of vaginal infection? Is it similar to a sexually transmitted infection (STI)? Can a yeast infection be safely treated online? We’ve got answers!
What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?
When something feels “off” in your vagina, it can make everything else feel off too. And when symptoms like vaginal itching and inflammation develop, it’s easy for your mind to wander to worst-case scenarios.
- Vaginal itching
- Thick, white and curd-like vaginal discharge or very watery discharge
- Vaginal irritation and inflammation
- Vaginal burning and discomfort, especially during urination or sexual activity
- Vaginal redness and swelling
- Vaginal pain and soreness
Yeast infection symptoms may vary from person to person or infection to infection. Even if your symptoms don’t feel exactly like your last yeast infection, it’s still a good idea to seek treatment.
What causes vaginal yeast infections?
As human beings, we naturally have many types of fungus living in our bodies. But when a certain type of fungus called candida albicans grows and multiplies out of control, you can end up with a yeast infection. In addition to the vagina, yeast infections can also occur in different places on the body—like in the mouth or throat (called “oral thrush”).
Reasons why you may develop a vaginal yeast infection:
- Antibiotics — Antibiotics work to get rid of bad bacteria so that you feel better fast, but they can also wipe out beneficial bacteria, like lactobacillus, that helps keep your body in balance. Without the right ratio of healthy bacteria, the vagina becomes less acidic – allowing yeast to grow unchecked.
- Hormone changes — Think menstrual cycles, pregnancy or starting a new hormonal birth control method.
- Uncontrolled diabetes — Yeast feeds off of sugar. If your blood sugar isn’t under control, you may develop frequent yeast infections.
- Certain spermicides or lubricants — Reactions to the active ingredients in spermicides and lubricants can cause irritation and imbalance in the vagina.
- Certain clothing, underwear or swimwear — Clothing that traps moisture and doesn’t allow your skin to breathe can create a breeding ground for yeast.
Is a vaginal yeast infection a STD / STI?
If you have a vaginal yeast infection, you may experience symptoms that are similar to certain STIs. But yeast infections aren’t contagious and can’t be passed from one sexual partner to another. However, sexual intercourse can upset the natural balance of the vagina and vulva—triggering an overgrowth of yeast and causing a yeast infection.
How can I get rid of a vaginal yeast infection?
When the normal pH balance starts to tip in one direction, vaginas have a natural ability to restore balance. But if you start to feel symptoms of a yeast infection, the scales have likely tipped too far for your body to resolve the imbalance. When this happens, it can be hard to know what over-the-counter treatment is best as most creams and suppositories must be used for several days and can be expensive and messy.
Thankfully, at the first sign of trouble, you have options. Yeast infections are commonly treated with prescription oral antifungals. The second you feel that itching and burning, it's easy to get the treatment you need with a quick online visit. Just answer a few questions about your symptoms and medical history and a nurse practitioner will review your case and provide a personalized treatment plan and prescription antifungal medication.
Home remedies for vaginal yeast infections
An internet search for home remedies for vaginal yeast infections can lead you down a rabbit hole. But it’s important to know that things like yogurt or other probiotic-rich foods, boric acid, douching and essential oils won’t get rid of your yeast infection. While probiotics can help promote gut health, they can’t fight off a fungal infection. And things like boric acid, douching and certain essential oils can be irritating to the sensitive skin in your vaginal area and do more harm than good.
How can I prevent future yeast infections?
To help keep yeast infections at bay, follow these tips.
Yeast infection prevention tips:
- Switch to cotton underwear — Lacy and silky fabrics may look good, but your body will thank you for choosing good ol’ breathable cotton undies.
- Consider a looser fit — Make sure your favorite jeans or go-to workout leggings allow your vagina to breath and aren’t trapping in moisture.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, fragrances and detergents — The vagina is a self-cleaning organ and water is all you need to keep it clean. To keep pH levels in balance, avoid using feminine washes, scented products and soaps on your vulva.
- Change out of wet clothing promptly — After a gym session or swim, change into dry clothes as quickly as possible to prevent too much moisture in that area.
- Use antibiotics only when necessary — Antibiotics can really throw off your body’s natural balance. Only take antibiotics when they are prescribed.
When your vagina is itching and irritated, you don’t feel like yourself. Get your mojo back! Start a visit at Virtuwell and get treatment and Rx for your yeast infection today.
Share this post
Do you know someone who could use a simple & affordable healthcare option?
