Yeast infections A baking soda bath may relieve symptoms and help people recover faster. A 2021 study found that baking soda helped kill Candida cells, the fungal cells responsible for yeast infections.
Sitz baths—warm or lukewarm water with 4-5 tablespoons of baking soda can soothe vulvar itching and burning. Cool gel pack or compresses to the vulvar area, helpful at night to sleep. A+D® ointment, petroleum jelly, or Crisco®—apply a small amount to protect the irritated vulvar skin.
You can add ½ cup of baking soda to warm bathwater and soak for 10–15 minutes. This should help relieve itching. Avoid adding any bubble baths, essential oils, or harsh soaps — while they don't cause vaginal yeast infections, the fragrances and chemicals in them could cause further irritation.
Sitz baths prepared with baking soda help to treat yeast infections as they can decrease acidity levels in the vagina. This stops the growth and spread of fungal cells and relieves related symptoms, like itching and irritation.
Natural remedies for yeast infections like yogurt, probiotics, tea tree oil, and baking soda are commonly used to help fight yeast overgrowth and relieve symptoms like itching and discharge. Many people turn to these options as an alternative or complement to antifungal medications.
Using an antifungal medicine for 3 to 7 days most often clears a yeast infection. Antifungal medicines come in the form of creams, ointments, tablets and small objects you put into your vagina, called suppositories. They include miconazole (Monistat 3) and terconazole.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been found to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the strain of fungi that typically causes yeast infections. To use this natural remedy, mix 1 spoonful of ACV into a glass of water and drink every morning.
Sitting in a warm, but not hot, bath may help your symptoms. Avoid douching. Although many women feel cleaner if they douche after their period or intercourse, it may worsen vaginal discharge. Douching removes healthy bacteria lining the vagina that protect against infection.
Don't wear nylon or other fabric that holds body heat and moisture close to the skin. Try sleeping without underwear. Don't scratch. Relieve itching with a cold pack or a cool bath.
You will notice that the itching has subsided, eliminating much of the discomfort. Finally, all irritation, inflammation, or redness will go away. The appearance and feel of your genitals will return to normal. Completing the course of your treatment is necessary.
While hydration does help with managing overall vaginal flora and can cause a shift in pH levels, making it easier to decrease or eliminate yeast, drinking water alone does not usually flush out yeast.
Other symptoms can develop if the infection spreads to other parts of the body, such as the heart, brain, eyes, bones, or joints.
Wash your vulva with plain water or a mild, unscented soap. Rinse well. After using the toilet, wipe from front to back to avoid spreading yeast or bacteria from your anus to the vagina or urinary tract. Wear underwear that doesn't hold in warmth and moisture.
One study found that adding baking soda to a warm bath or applying it directly to the skin as a paste usually relieves the itching caused by eczema. The effect can be attributed to baking soda's natural therapeutic properties — it's antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing.
A warm bath infused with Epsom salts and baking soda is one of the easiest ways to detoxify the body, soothe sore muscles, and promote deep relaxation—all from the comfort of your home.
If you and your doctor feel that treatment is in order, options include the following: Fluconazole. This is a powerful anti-fungal oral medication that is usually given as a single dose and wipes out the yeast infection quickly.
Technically, yes, you can have sex if you have a yeast infection, but you may not want to because your symptoms may make sex painful. Plus, since sex involves a bacteria swap that can cause more fungus growth, having sex can delay healing—making those uncomfortable symptoms of itching and burning last longer.
You might confuse an STD such as chlamydia, trichomoniasis, or gonorrhea for a yeast infection because they cause some of the same symptoms, including: Itching and burning in the vagina and vulva. Burning when you pee or have sex. Thick discharge from the vagina.
There may be benefits that haven't yet been proven through research. Cranberry juice may help cure yeast infections. When taken regularly, it's said to prevent recurrent yeast infections. The high levels of vitamin C in cranberry juice may aid in upper respiratory infections.
The most effective treatment for any fungal infection is to take antifungal medications. There are many medications available, from oral medications to topical creams, ointments, and suppositories for vaginal yeast infections. If you are sure you have a yeast infection, you can find many treatments over the counter.
When there is an imbalance and yeast overgrows, it can cause a yeast infection. The stages of yeast infections may be classified as mild, moderate, or severe: Mild: You are experiencing some symptoms with some discomfort. Moderate: You are experiencing some to most symptoms with tolerable discomfort.
Can drinking a lot of water flush out a yeast infection? Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungus and require antifungal medications for treatment. While staying hydrated is important for overall health, drinking water alone will not flush out or cure a yeast infection.