Content

• Steps
• Warnings

Women with vaginal infections know that the symptoms of such infections are itching, burning, and changes in color, odor, and sometimes the consistency of vaginal discharge. However, there are different types of vaginal infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and other diseases that have symptoms similar to those of vaginal infections. Therefore, if you notice symptoms of a vaginal infection, it is important to see your doctor for a correct diagnosis. Some women who suffer from recurrent vaginal infections, such as yeast vaginosis (thrush) or bacterial vaginosis (BV), choose to treat these infections without the use of medication.

Steps

1. 1 To prevent thrush or BV, and to prevent these infections from recurring, eat at least 140 grams of yogurt a day.
   • Choose yogurt that says it contains live Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotics. Probiotics help restore the levels of normal bacteria and yeast found in the vaginal lining.
2. 2 Apply live Lactobacillus acidophilus as a vaginal suppository by inserting it into the vagina for a maximum of 2 weeks.
   • Use plain yogurt without additives containing live active cultures. Store yoghurt in the refrigerator until use.
   • For best results, use suppositories in the evening before bed. Disposable or reusable syringes, available at most pharmacies, are best suited for injecting lactobacilli.
   • If you suffer from recurrent vaginal infections after the infection has cleared, use acidophilus suppositories weekly to prevent recurrence.
3. 3 Eat one garlic clove each day by crushing it and adding it to soup, salad, sauce, or other food. Alternatively, you can optionally consume garlic as a dietary supplement, following the dosage indicated on the package. Garlic has long been known for its antifungal properties, and you can use it to treat and prevent vaginal infections.
4. 4 Take a vitamin supplement daily that contains at least 500 mg of vitamin C and 200 IU of vitamin E. These vitamins help reduce inflammation associated with infection and strengthen the immune system, which will help your body fight infection.
5. 5 To reduce inflammation and tissue swelling, reduce the amount of animal fats in your diet and increase the amount of essential fatty acids found in certain types of fish and nuts.
6. 6 Talk to your doctor about calcium and magnesium supplements. Studies have shown that women who suffer from frequent vaginal infections often have calcium deficiencies.
7. 7 Try an herbal remedy: the bark of the ant tree (Tabebuia avellanedae), which is famous for its antifungal properties. Brew it like tea and drink or refrigerate and use for douching.
8. 8 Pay particular attention to keeping the area around the vagina clean and dry. Wear cotton underwear and wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
9. 9 To minimize vaginal infections and relieve symptoms, avoid irritants such as:
   • Friction that can be caused by inappropriate underwear, aggressive or excessive sexual activity, cycling, and other activities.
   • Tampons, pads, toilet paper, and other products that contain artificial colors and flavors.
   • Chemicals found in spermicides, lubricants and other products intended for use in the genital area.
10. 10 If you have a vaginal infection, avoid sex, douching, and use tampons. Some vaginal infections are sexually transmitted even without symptoms, so if you are prone to vaginal infections, we recommend using a condom every time you have sex.

Warnings

• If you use garlic as a suppository and cut a clove of garlic before insertion, be aware that this can increase the burning sensation. If your infection is just starting, do not cut or scratch the garlic clove to reduce the burning sensation. If the infection has been going on for a while and you need to increase the healing effect of garlic, chances are you are already experiencing a burning sensation in the vaginal area and may not even notice a burning sensation from garlic.