Last time we were discussing fungi, and, in keeping with that same track of thought, this time we will discuss yeast infections. Yes, ladies, you know what I’m talking about here. Burning, itching and discharge…real attractive…Not!
(Right here, I am going to strongly suggest that if you suspect you have a yeast infection, see your doctor or health care provider.)
Thirty million women a year get a vaginal yeast infection. There are approximately 4 different kinds:
- Trichomonas: caused by a parasite and contracted by intercourse.
- Leucorrhea: this is a yeast infection that occurs when the normal vaginal acidity is disrupted. (Can even happen when you do not remove all soap from the area or even from some bubble baths.)
- Bacterial Vaginosis (gardnella): thrives when the vaginal pH is off
- Vulvitis: a vulva inflammation caused by allergic irritation, bacteria or fungal infection. Douching excessively with commercial douches that have perfumes and additives can wash out the ‘friendly’ bacteria that help prevent infections like candida and bacterial Vaginosis. Try herbal douches instead for a limited time.
Natural therapies can help for a short-term but long term cures have to come from changes in lifestyle and diet.
How do you know if you have a yeast infection?
Well, as gross as it may sound, if you notice a bread, beer or fish odor you could have a yeast infection.
Leukorrhea is characterized by itchy, inflamed vaginal issues with a foul, yeast discharge and sex is painful.
Trichomonas is characterized by severe itch, foamy, yellow discharge with foul odor.
Bacterial Vaginosis has a foul, fishy odor, white discharge and moderate itchiness.
Vulvitis is characterized by itching, redness, swelling with fluid-filled blisters.
The most common culprit of vaginal infections is long-term exposure to antibiotics which weakens the immune response and imbalances hormones and even birth control pills have been implicated in some infections. Spermicidal cream Nonoxynol-9 aggravates cystitis and Candida infections. It can kill friendly lactobacilli that protect the vagina against micro organisms. (Trichomonas and Vaginosis are considered STDs.)
So what can be done to help the recovery time?
Try eating a diet of primarily raw foods. (Large green salad with alfalfa sprouts every day.) Keep your meals light without heavy starches, fatty foods, sugars or dairy foods. This includes red meat, hard liquor, sugar and caffeine as well.
Cranberry juice (unsweetened) can help normalize body chemistry. If you have been taking antibiotics, eating foods like kefir and yogurt will help to re-alkalize your system.
Remember, many infections can bounce between partners, so be kind to one another. Avoid sex during an infection or use barrier protection.
A tried and true effective douche is vinegar and water. The vinegar balances the vaginal pH.
By the way…here’s a tidbit that I was shocked to learn: back in the early 50’s or so, when Lysol first came out in liquid form, it was also prescribed as a douche! Can you imagine?! I was horrified!
For more information the banner below is for a book that was written by Linda Allen for complete, clinically proven candida elimination.
