Vaginal yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, occur when there is an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus in your vagina called candida. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, vaginal yeast infections may be caused by numerous factors, including pregnancy, obesity, certain medications and a weak immune system. Nutritional therapies may help treat your yeast infection, but it is always wise to consult your family physician before pursuing this natural treatment approach.
About Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are one of the leading causes of vaginal discharge among American women, states the New York State Department of Health. Characteristic signs and symptoms associated with vaginal yeast infections include vaginal itching and irritation, non-odorous vaginal discharge that has the appearance of cottage cheese, swelling, redness and pain around your vaginal opening, a burning sensation when you urinate and pain during sexual intercourse. A licensed health care provider can perform a pelvic examination and provide you with a definitive diagnosis.
Nutritional Approach
The nutritional approach to treating yeast infections often involves the use of nutritional supplements, although some supplements may require more extensive scientific scrutiny to determine their true efficacy and mechanisms of action. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," yarrow, calendula, comfrey and oregano may be helpful nutritional supplements in treating your yeast infection. Other beneficial nutritional supplements for this health purpose may include acidophilus, caprylic acid, essential fatty acids, garlic and quercetin.
Highlighted Nutritional Supplement
Garlic is a nutritional supplement that has historically been used in treating yeast infections, due to its ability to inhibit the growth of the candida organism. Garlic, notes Dr. William A. Mitchell Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," may be helpful in treating a wide variety of infections. This nutritional supplement may help treat yeast infections, tuberculosis, typhus and E. coli infections, and it may also help treat ulcers and elevated blood sugar levels.
Additional Information
Yeast infections, though common, should never go untreated. If you experience the most common signs and symptoms associated with this health problem, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider as soon as possible. A health care professional who is trained in clinical nutrition can assess your condition and provide you with helpful information about the effects and limitations of nutritional supplements in treating your vaginal yeast infection. Always review supplement-related topics with your doctor beforehand.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Candidiasis
- New York State Department of Health: Yeast Infection
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
