The Basics of a Yeast Infection

Yeast infections can be uncomfortable to discuss and they are certainly uncomfortable to experience, but the fact is that nearly 75% of women will deal with one at some point in their lives.

Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte shares some helpful and important on this common infection.

• What it is: Yeast is a fungus that is found naturally in the body, but the immune system works to keep it under control. When something causes the yeast cells to multiply and grow out of control, it will cause an infection.

• How it’s caused: Things like hormonal changes due to your period and pregnancy, birth control pills, and antibiotics are common causes because they can disrupt the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vaginal area.

• Here’s what to do: First, if you experience common symptoms like swelling, itchiness, redness and pain during sex or urination, talk to a doctor. It’s important to be diagnosed correctly even if you plan on getting better with home remedies.

• What to do next: If you want to use at-home remedies, try tea tree oil. This essential oil is believed to spare good bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance in the vagina’s flora. Research shows that that inserting a suppository with tea tree oil into the vagina may help treat yeast infections.

• Something else to try: Eat more Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics, which supplies your body with good bacteria and benefits gut health. Researchers believe that eating yogurt or taking probiotic supplements may help maintain the proper balance of good bacteria and keep yeast from overgrowing.

• What to do after: If these natural remedies don’t work, try OTC medications like Monistat or Vagistat. These medications are usually effective for women who have mild infections and don’t get yeast infections often.

• Doctor’s recommendations: Talk to your doctor if your yeast infection doesn’t improve after using home remedies or OTC medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If it doesn’t improve, it’s likely that you need prescription medication to take care of the problem.

• Action steps for the future: Make a few lifestyle changes. Things like wearing loose-fitting, cotton underwear, using unscented hygiene products and practicing healthy hygiene will help prevent future infections.

We hope you don’t have to deal with this uncomfortable infection! If you do, however, or if have any other questions, don’t hesitate to contact our team at AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte today.