Candida is a fungal micro-organism that causes vaginal yeast infections. It is normally found in small quantities in the vagina. But when Candida grows out of control, the result can be an infection that causes an abnormal vaginal discharge, itching of the vulva, labia and first portion of the vagina, pain during intercourse and burning when urinating. Vaginal yeast infections are often caused by a course of antibiotic treatment that can kill healthy vaginal bacteria, allowing Candida to grow and cause an infection, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. A variety of over-the-counter remedies are available to treat Candida. Alternative remedies are also available. Some women report success with alternative remedies. But the Mayo Clinic advises that well-designed trials are needed to investigate the safety and effectiveness of these therapies.
Over-the-Counter Remedies
Several medications in a class of drugs called azoles are effective against Candida infections. These are available without a prescription and are sold under the names Monistat, Terazol and Lotrimin. They are safe and usually effective when used according to directions on the package, according to the Mayo Clinic. They may cause a slight burning sensation and should not be used by pregnant women.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The fluid in the normal vagina is acidic, but this is disturbed when a yeast infection is present. Because vinegar is acidic, it is a traditional home remedy for vaginal yeast infections. The website HomeRemedies recommends adding cider vinegar to a bathtub full of water and sitting in the water for 20 minutes for three days.
Yogurt
Some studies have shown that lactobacillus --- available in some types of yogurt --- taken orally or used intravaginally can reduce vaginal yeast cultures and provide symptom relief, according to the Mayo Clinic. But these studies have involved a small number of women, and other studies have failed to corroborate those findings.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has been used traditionally as an anti-fungal agent. HomeRemedies says that a few drops of tea tree oil, combined with an equal amount of rubbing alcohol and mixed with water can be used as a douching solution. The Mayo Clinic, however, says there is not enough information from studies to make recommendations for or against the use of tea tree oil for vaginal infections.
When to Consult a Doctor
The National Library of Medicine recommends consulting a doctor for a vaginal yeast infection if the symptoms do not disappear after one course of treatment at home or if they become worse during this time. Anyone who has recurring infections should also consult her doctor, who may prescribe an oral anti-fungal medication. A pregnant woman who develops a yeast infection should always see her doctor first.
