Vaginal yeast infection is caused by a fungus that is normally present in the vagina. It is estimated that three quarters of all women will have a yeast infection in their lifetime. Factors that help contribute to vaginal yeast infection include pregnancy, diabetes, and the use oral contraceptives, steroids, and antibiotics. Yeast infection also occurs more commonly after menopause because of declining estrogen levels, which thin the vaginal walls.

One natural remedy for yeast infection is probiotics. They are available as oral supplements and as vaginal suppositories. Probiotics are good bacteria that kill or digest the bad bacteria present in the human body. Lactobacillus, especially Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, and Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14, are being tried against yeast infections. Some studies have found that low levels of Lactobacilli in the vagina are associated with yeast infection.

Another natural remedy yeast infection is boric acid which is available as a suppository. Boric acid has mild anti fungal and antiseptic properties. However, there are certain concerns about the use of boric acid. It is toxic and should not be taken orally. It should not be applied to open wounds and cuts or abrasions. It should not be used by pregnant women or applied on the skins of babies or infants.

Tea tree oil is also used as a active agent against yeast infection. It is rubbed into the vaginal area to curb the infection. However, not many studies have been done to prove its efficacy.

The symptoms of vaginal yeast infection include itching and burning around the vagina, white vaginal discharge that may look like cottage cheese, pain during sexual intercourse, and burning with urination.

It is best to see a doctor if this is your first yeast infection, if you have severe pain, if the infection persists even after you have tried treating yourself, if you have multiple sexual partners, if your immune system is weakened because of AIDS or similar infections.

Another remedy that is prescribed for yeast infection is yoghurt. Apply it to the affected area until the symptoms disappear.

There are also yeast infection medicine which are quite effective. Some of them are applied topically while others are taken orally. Topically applied antifungal creams include: butoconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole, and terconazole. Antifungal medications that are also available as vaginal tablets include: clotrimazole, miconazole, terconazole, and nystatin. Oral medications for yeast vaginitis and vulvitis include fluconazole.

Most doctors deem it correct to treat vaginal yeast infections with vaginal tablets or suppositories rather than oral medications. Oral antifungal medication can cause side effects such as headache, nausea, and abdominal pain, while vaginal treatment is unlikely to cause these side effects. Oral antifungal medications are also not recommended for use during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, then please consult a doctor before taking any anti yeast medication.

Using an anti yeast infection medicine when it is not really a yeast infection can lead to hard to treat yeast infections later on. So it is best to consult a doctor and ascertain that its is indeed an yeast infection before you start treating your self for yeast infection with over the counter medication. This is very important if this is your first infection, or the infection persists even after you have tried over the counter medication.

To avoid yeast infection you should not wear tight-fitting clothing or clothing made out of synthetic material. You should wear cotton panties. You should not wear pantyhose or leotards every day. You should use your blow dryer on a low, cool setting to help dry your genital area after you bathe or shower and before getting dressed. You should wipe from front to back after using the toilet. This may help prevent the bacteria that normally live in your rectum from getting into your vagina. You should change out of wet swimsuits or other damp clothes as soon as you can. You should not douche or use feminine hygiene sprays, deodorant sanitary pads, or tampons. You should also avoid using colored or perfumed toilet paper. All these items appear to affect the balance of acidity in the vagina and can lead to yeast infections.

Yeast infection is not normally sexually transmitted, so you do not need to fear infecting your partner.