How to Cure a Yeast Infection
Knowing how to cure a yeast infection at home can save you the time and trouble of a doctor’s visit.
Of course, you should only treat yourself for a yeast infection if you are absolutely certain that is what you have. Many people mistake another, perhaps more serious, infection for a yeast infection. Unless you have been diagnosed in the past with a yeast infection, you should pay a visit to your doctor just to be sure.
How to cure a yeast infection may involve one of three options:
Over the counter medication
Over the counter medications, such as Monistat and Femstat, were once only available by prescription. Several years ago, these products began being sold over the counter. These medications are highly effective for most women. They also come with a cream to help ease the burning and itching.
There are several brands available, and most have the same active ingredient. These over the counter medications are a good place to start when deciding how to cure a yeast infection.
Home remedies
Many women also rely on home remedies. While these have no scientific data to prove their effectiveness, many women swear that they are a great solution for how to cure a yeast infection.
Among the most popular of these home remedies is the use of yogurt. It is thought that the bacteria that are present in yogurt will kill the yeast, much the way the good bacteria found on your body would do.
To try this method, apply some plain yogurt to a tampon and insert into the vagina. Leave in place for several minutes and repeat two to three times a day.
Garlic is another popular home remedy. Place a clove of garlic in a piece of cheesecloth and insert into the vagina. Be sure to tie a string to it, so that it can be easily removed. A clove of garlic that is cut in half is stronger than a whole clove, so many women cut the clove in half before inserting.
Many people think that cranberry juice can help with urinary tract infections, and some women have added the juice to their list of how to cure a yeast infection.
Prescription medication
If you have a particularly stubborn or recurring yeast infection, you may need to turn to your doctor for help. If none of the home remedies or over the counter medications provide a cure, he will be able to prescribe something stronger.
He may prescribe an antifungal medication or, in some cases, he may prescribe boric acid. NOTE: While some websites list boric acid as a home cure, do NOT use this treatment except under the advice and guidance of a physician.
There are many answers to how to cure a yeast infection. Not all treatments will work for all women. You’ve got to find the one that works best for you, so that the next time you get an infection, you’ll know exactly what to do.
