Yeast infections are a common disorder that affects about three in every four women at some time in their life, states Mayo Clinic. Although vaginal yeast infections are the most common type of yeast infection, these fungi can also cause infections in babies, children and men. Curing yeast infections often calls for a visit to a physician, who will prescribe antifungal medications, but many people are finding that using probiotics can relieve symptoms in a safe and natural way.
Causes of Yeast Infections
A common type of fungus that normally lives in the mouth, digestive tract, vagina and on the skin is known as Candida albicans. Although these fungi normally do not cause problems, certain circumstances can cause them to increase in numbers, resulting in a yeast infection. Antibiotic use, pregnancy, obesity and diabetes are all factors that can contribute to an overgrowth of yeast. According to Penn State Hershey Medical Center, the majority of people who suffer from HIV have a greater possibility of developing Candida infections as well as those with weak immunes systems and the elderly. Oral thrush, a yeast infection that occurs in the mouth, is most often seen in infants. Men can also develop a genital yeast infection from having sexual activity with an infected partner.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are friendly bacteria that live in the intestines and the vagina. These friendly bacteria play an important role in protecting the body against harmful bacteria that enters the body. Probiotics also help maintain healthy digestion, keep the immune system strong and aid in the absorption of nutrients.
Do Probiotics Cure?
Although more research is needed to provide conclusive evidence, many health care professionals believe that taking probiotics can help prevent yeast infections as well as cure these infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. By using probiotics, the bacteria levels are corrected, reducing the number of bad bacteria and raising the level of good bacteria, thus rebalancing bacteria levels back to normal.
Probiotic Use
According to The Harvard Medical School's Family Health Guide on The Health Benefits of Probiotics, many women treat recurring yeast infections by eating yogurt or inserting it directly into the vagina. Although many women find this treatment effective, Harvard does suggest that more evidence is needed to prove that probiotics are just as effective as conventional treatments.
Member Comments