Vaginal yeast infection is caused by a fungus known as Candida albicans. This fungus is usually present on the skin and inside the vagina of almost all healthy women. The acidic environment in the vagina keeps a check on this fungus. But when the acidic level drops down the fungus starts multiplying causing vaginal infection. This drop in the level of acid could be due to various reasons like menstruation, intake of antibiotics, steroids and diabetics. Improper personal hygiene could also be a cause for vaginal yeast infection. The result is rarely a serious disease but it causes a lot of discomfort.

Some of the symptoms of vaginal yeast infection are:

• A thick, odorless, whitish vaginal discharge
• An unusual pain during sexual intercourse
• Uncontrollable itching and burning sensation in and around the vagina.
• An unusual swelling of the vulva
• Burning sensation during urination

Natural home remedies and cures for vaginal yeast infection are:

• Tea Tree Oil is a natural anti-fungal. A few undiluted drops would suffice the cure of the infection
• Garlic paste applied to the skin around the vagina proves to be a great relief.
• Regular douching with Yogurt is effective. Dip a tampon in yogurt and insert in the vagina. Along with this eating a lot of yogurt and drinking buttermilk is a very effective measure.
• Applying honey is the most uncomfortable way of curing the infection but it is said to have great impact.
• Vinegar is always known for it’s anti fungal and anti bacterial characteristics. Fill the bath tub with water mixed with 1 cup of vinegar and soak in this water for about 20 minutes.

Some of the other medical treatments available for vaginal infection are:

• Anti fungal medicines in the form of capsules, creams, ointments or suppositories are inserted directly into the vagina. These medications include butoconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole, nystatin, tioconazole and terconazole.
• A single dose of fluconazole can also be used but is not recommended during pregnancy. Most doctors prescribe tablets or suppositories as oral anti fungal medication causes headache, nausea and abdominal pain. It is also not recommended during pregnancy.