Recurring yeast infections due to the fungus Candida albicans are more common in women who have diabetes, are on the birth control pill or who consume a diet high in sugar. Doctors classify a yeast infection as recurring if it occurs more than four times in a year. Many women with recurrent yeast infections are placed on prescription medication. However, physicians are reluctant to begin this protocol because women are more likely to become immune to the drug.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains lactobacillus bacteria, good bacteria that counteracts Candida albicans. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, eating yogurt or taking lactobacillus acidophilus supplements when a woman is at a higher risk for developing a vaginal yeast infection, such as when she is taking antibiotics, may help to prevent an occurrence. Yogurt cultures can also be administered directly to the vaginal area on the outside of the body, leaving the yogurt in place for 10 minutes to an hour, then washing it off.
Garlic and Boric Acid
According to MayoClinic.com, women can use garlic or boric acid vaginal suppositories in order to cure their vaginal yeast infection. Garlic has antibacterial and antifungal properties, and boric acid changes the pH of the vagina so that it is not a friendly environment for Candida albicans. Both of these suppositories can be purchased at a pharmacy.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil cream can provide significant relief from symptoms by killing Candida albicans bacteria, according to MayoClinic.com. Some women have also found relief by adding tea tree oil to the exterior of a tampon and inserting it for up to an hour, allowing the tea tree oil to work directly at the site of the infection.
Apple Cider Vinegar
According to the website Disabled World, apple cider vinegar can be used both internally and externally. However, it is very strong, and if used full strength externally, it can burn severely. It is important to use natural apple cider vinegar that contains the "mother," or the sediment that is at the bottom of the bottle. Plain white vinegar actually feeds the yeast instead of killing it, and should therefore be avoided. A cup of apple cider vinegar can also be added to a hot bath; a woman should soak for approximately 15 minutes with her legs open and knees bent.
Prevention
According to the Cleveland Clinic, women can prevent chronic vaginal yeast infections by wearing loose clothing made from natural fibers, and avoiding wearing tight pantyhose, tights, leggings, tight pants or tight underwear. Although some women find douching more comfortable after menstruation, it should not be done because it kills the bacteria controlling the fungus. For the same reason, women should avoid using feminine deodorant or deodorized tampons and pads. Underwear should be washed in hot water.
