Acid/Alkali Balance
I have a question. If yeast infections begin with an imbalance of either too much acid or too much alkali in our bodies, how do I know if I should be treat myself with alkali type things like yogurt and soda, or with acidic things like vinegar or caprylic acid? Ive had recurrent yeast infections for 25 years. After doctors over dosed me on Fluconazole, Diflucan, Monistat and such Ive been treating my yeast infections with white distilled vinegar and water douches but they come back more and more often until finally I can no longer have a sexual relationship at all!
(Arizona, US)
04/16/2015
Lisa, you will need to test your Ph to determine if you're too alkaline or acidic down there. The ideal ph down there should be acidic, between 3.8 to 4.5. So based on your findings, you will need to adjust the ph with the proper products. Source: http://farkle.hubpages.com/hub/How-did-I-get-a-yeast-infection
(Atlanta, Ga)
06/16/2015
Apple cider vinegar soaked tampon undiluted and copious amount of coconut oil vaginally inserted before tampon insertion to help keep Apple Cider Vinegar from irritating vag walls. Leave in over night and do nightly til you get relief from symptoms. Then do as needed. I did this 2 days ago and I finally have relief after years of recurring yeast and failed mefs
(Florida)
06/24/2015
I've tried it all. Yougurt, acidopholus, pro biotics, antibiotics, OTC medications, vitamin C inserted, EVERYTHING FOR YEARSSSSSS. Let me tell you what actually worked for me. First off eat yogurt, TAKE PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS and eat veggies and take your vitamins and drink lots of water, try to stay away from sugars, I also take an anti-yeast supplement, the main ingredient is goldenseal root and that really works like a charm.
Secondly, douche 3 times a day with hydrogen peroxide. Do it it for 5 days str8 and I guarantee your issue will be gone. Research it, lots of doctors recommend this.
The other thing that worked ok but took too long and was kind messy was inserting a vitamin C capsule every night. Took like 4 days to work. Hydrogen peroxide is the way to go!!!!! I wish someone had told me to do this years ago.
Lisa, did anyone ever ask you what you ate?
If you are a sugar junkie and eat lots of carbs, your PH is off and in turn you vaginal PH will be affected. So please dbl check those, you likely could benefit from probiotics and enzymes and plain unflavored Kefir after your last meal. Lastly, do a search for a natuorpathic physician in your zipcode, check the yelp comments and doctors grades comment and last, thumbtack which asks a few questions to properly target the doctr for your specific needs. Best wishes
(Washington Dc)
11/09/2016
I have a very clean diet. I eat mostly home cooked food, veggies, meats, and home-made gluten free flat bread, no sugars (avoid even fruit because of the natural sugars). I don't eat any junk food or snacks. But I got a terrible yeast infection.
It seemed to have been gone but coming back as I started to decrease the Chinese herbal meds.
How does one get the pH of the vagina tested?
(Louisiana)
12/21/2016

Thank you sooo much for posting! I had been suffering for several days with soreness and burning and finally took a good look and diagnosed myself with a yeast infection yesterday. First, I thought it was a flare of eczema because I'm really sensitive until I noticed white discharge and a funny odor. Unfortunately, a trip to the doctor was not my choice and an effort to avoid any more medicine because I'm already on steroids for another chronic health condition. To make a long story short, I did exactly as you said but also took an epsom salt bath before inserting tampon and ate two servings of yogurt last night. Dream land all night and woke up with about 85% relief. This remedy will be done again tonight and will find a page in my book of home remedies. Can't believe I made it to 36 yrs old without a yeast infection that I was aware of but thankful there is some help out here.
(California)
01/13/2017
(Los Angeles Ca)
01/31/2017
Litmus paper is an easy way to check your pH. I believe Monistat or Vagisil sells an OTC testing kit that you can get in Target or any local pharmacy. However I ordered mine from Amazon for $5. I've suffered with recurring YI and BV for years, so I always keep litmus paper in my home to monitor when my pH is changing. Good luck!
(Ohio)
07/31/2018
I suffered with yeast infections for years. Tried everything until I stopped eating sugar products and started taking Undecylenic Acid. I did research and found that Formula SF722 from Thorne is excellent for clearing yeast issues. I no longer suffer with this problem.
Acidophilus

Every month, after I ovulate, I get unusual discharge that causes itching and all you need to do to cure this is stick one capsule of acidophilus up inside the vagina as high as you can (just use a finger) and it will take care of it (or repeat a day later for stronger infections). Brings the sex life back into action and relieves all discomfort!
Acidophilus
I've had yeast infections a couple of times every year since I was a teenager (I'm in my 20's now). In that time I've seen doctors who tell me to use Monistat or other over the counter antifungals to "fix" the problem. In the past, this has always worked fine... With patience. In an effort to use more natural methods to cure the ailment I tried ACV and garlic and they had some effect, but I ultimately ended up falling back on Monistat because the above mentioned methods take much time and consistency to cure the infection.
Last year I began working in a natural foods store where we emphasize preventative measures in dealing with all health issues. I've learned a great deal about how important probiotics are to balancing not only digestive health, but also in keeping pH levels in check. This morning when I woke up with that all too familiar slight burning/itching feeling, I consulted our selection of acidophilus and found "FemDophilus". The package suggests taking one pill per day for a month to see noticeable results - so I started that. I also inserted two of the "pills" into my vagina and within an hour I feel complete relief. I'm quite impressed with how little time this method took in relieving my symptoms and I will continue to take the acidphilus orally to prevent future yeast infections. This is a great product - whether you use this brand or not, I think using straight acidophilus rather than "antifungals" to cure yeast infections is the way to go for me.
(Los Angeles, Ca)
04/27/2012
Long anecdote below:
I've had recurring yeast infections for the past 8 years or so. In the past, it wouldn't get too itchy, so I'd ignore it or try to air it out. I've been taking Acidophilus supplements here and there for the past 5 years. Initially, one capsule would immediately alleviate itchiness, and if it got unbearably itchy, I'd take some out of the capsule (it's in powder form inside), apply some onto a wet paper towel and then onto my privates. Recently, it's been getting out of control that even when I take 3 capsules a day, it doesn't seem to do much. And I've noticed the past couple months, it's been starting to smell pretty bad down there (I know, TMI. ) I'm worried that the yeast in my body has built up a tolerance for Acidophilus bacteria. Does anyone know if that's possible?
For the past month, I've been eating plain yogurt every day (really have no appetite for yogurt aside from use as treatment), sleeping without undies, and lessening my sugar intake to no avail. Then I went to the local natural foods store (Whole Foods) to check out some different Probiotics I could take, when I saw the bottle of Yeast-Cleanse screaming out at me.
The capsules contain Caprylic Acid, Pau D'Arco, Grapefruit, Garlic, Licorice, and Tea Tree Oil (as well as Vitamin C, Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Dong Quai Root, Fennel Seed, etc.)
If you can't find the Yeast-Cleanse, you could probably find individual supplements of Caprylic Acid, Pau D'arco, Tea Tree Oil, etc. at a natural foods or vitamin store.
I immediately took a capsule and it's been working great so far. Took 3 capsules today even though it says to take 6/day. I'll update if anything else changes.
Wish the best to everyone's vajayjay out there! ;)
(Portland, Maine, Usa)
04/29/2012
I am a 42 year old female who is post menopausal due to surgery 6 years ago. I am also a 5 year breast cancer survivor so I am very limited on what I can use to treat some of the menopause symptoms. For the past year I have been dealing with almost constant yeast infection/vaginal irritation. I have tried a gazillion things both over counter and home remedies. I am finding that a great vaginal focused probiotic daily with a calcium/d/mag supplement and a prebiotic vag lubricant called Luvena every few days and a DHEA vag suppository once a week has really made a gigantic difference. While I won't say cured, I will say 95% better. There are now days on end when the discomfort isnt a focus, yah!! This is such an unpleasant thing we struggle with, I hope we can all find the combination that works for each of us!
(Shreveport, La)
05/20/2012
(Chicago, Il, Usa)
05/28/2012

It worked for me! I had to do 5 days straight inserting the pills into my vagina, and it is gone. I have spent tons of money on diflucan, monistat, etc... The burning and itching was terrible. I thought sex for me was over. This has worked wonders. I love it! I used the capsules from vitamin shoppe; 10mg has 100 million live organisms per capsule.
(Calgary Ab Canada)
11/26/2013
Hey there ladies,
I'm fifteen years old and I must say that this website is a godsend!
I've never had a vaginal infection of any sorts expect when I was really really young. In the past I've only ever experienced itching sometimes when I was stressed and I had normal discharge. Up until recently.
I've recently had some strong abdominal pain that I'm getting checked out and I think that weekend my immune system and allowed me to get an infection which for me is really depressing and disgusting because I have school, gym and extra curricular activities. I found it very embarrassing that I had this weird strong discharge and fortunately not a strong smell. I think that those factors really made me self aware and held me back from preforming my fullest.The side affects of this infection were also very annoying. The burring, itching, feeling compressed down there, it's really hard for me plus I'm in high school which nowadays is well a rumour mill and it's about, who looks the cutest, who's hot, funny, athletic and all that stuff...
I haven't an infection for really long maybe a week or so. But I really wanted to cure myself without going to my GP, because I've been there really recently for a urine test and abdomen pain.
I've told my mom about my problems and she didn't really reply back to me about it because she was unsure. So I went digging up opine for cures and more information to what BV and a yeast infection really is...
Suffice to say I'm a virgin and I really don't want to shove a pill up my vagina so... I resorted to the next best thing for myself.
I went out bought some Probiotic pills that has 8 million active cells and just began taking them. to add on I'm also taking a form of ginseng extract pills. Which is a Chinese vitamin which enhances all parts of the body +mind.
Instead of shoving the pill up there where no one has ever ventured before in my body... I made a probiotic paste. I took the powder from the pill added water to it and some yogurt to enhance the amount of active cells, and to make it thick enough to be a paste.
I rubbed the paste on my vaginal areas and also as much as I could shoved it up there as much as possible without feeling uncomfortable and breaking that virgin hold bond thing.
I also ate some yogurt and a clove of garlic. Also drink a lot of water to wash down the pills, yogurt and garlic.
PS. I'm not keeping the paste in, I'm keeping it in for about an hour and a half, showering then scrubbing myself again with the probiotic pill.
So far the results have been good for me. Even though I just started like exactly an hour and some minutes.
For me a vaginal infection is not common in the least so I'm hoping this is a one time thing. Is it? or will it recur? Should I stop taking the pills when I find complete relief or continue on.....
I just need some help to be comfortable again.
(Colorado, US)
01/19/2015
Pain, strong odor and smelly discharge isn't Yeast infection. Go to a Dr.!!
(Mesa, Az)
03/03/2015
Information from the U.S. National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus site on the use of acidophillus related to use in the vagina, or by mouth to treat the vagina:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/790.html
"Researchers have found Lactobacillus acidophilus suppositories (Vivag, Pharma Vinci A/S, Denmark) and vaginal tablets (Gynoflor, Medinova, Switzerland) may be effective. Researchers also found that vaginal capsules Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, seem to lengthen the time between infections."
"Lactobacillus is LIKELY SAFE for women to use inside the vagina."
Possibly ineffective for...
"Vaginal yeast infections after taking antibiotics. There is evidence that taking lactobacillus by mouth or eating yogurt enriched with lactobacillus doesn't prevent vaginal yeast infections after antibiotics. However, women with yeast infections who use vaginal suppositories containing 1 billion live Lactobacillus GG bacteria twice daily for 7 days in combination with conventional treatment often report their symptoms improve."
"There are concerns about the quality of some lactobacillus products. Some products labeled to contain Lactobacillus acidophilus actually contain no lactobacillus acidophilus, or they contain a different strain of lactobacillus such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus. Some products are contaminated with "unfriendly" bacteria."
So, warnings have to be that (particularly cheap acidophilus manufactured under unknown labels - text added by me) you might not be getting ANY acidophilus, a kind of acidophilus that doesn't continue living in the colon, or even unfriendly bacteria if you don't purchase a quality brand, refrigerated, version of Lactobacillus.
Also, realize that some double-blind studies showed that it doesn't help, much, to supplement by mouth with acidophilus to get rid of vaginal infections after antibiotics, which are unfortunate findings.
I have also seen people who have taken a good quality acidophilus for years that is enteric coated who later did a high quality test that showed whether they had acidophilus, and they didn't. So, that is probably why it doesn't help some people - because it isn't easy to repopulate the colon with it.
L-Acidophilus has little hooks which it uses to hook onto the colon wall. If Candida has gone from being its free-floating ball-shaped yeast form to the more hard-to-eradicate 'hyphal' form which sends out roots... it acts as a barrier to acidophilus and keeps it from attaching to the colon walls.
All the more reason to not let this happen. Moral of the story? Don't take antibiotics unless you absolutely think you are about to die. THAT is the only time you should ever take antibiotics.
To take them for a chest cold? It's insane. A cold or viral flu is not affected in the least when you take antibiotics.
(Us)
10/17/2016
If you are noticing a smell, you may have Bacterial Vaginosis. I found the cure that worked for me on this site was Boric Acid. You need to get checked out by your gynecologist first to make sure it is not a STD. It can have similar symptoms. You may also have Candida if you are having Y.I, that often. You could also check out anti-candida diet.
(Los Angeles, Ca)
01/31/2017
If you have an odor, you might want to visit the doctor. You could very well be misdiagnosing yourself and have bacterial vaginosis, not a yeast infection. Speaking from experience, the symptoms are sometimes similar (itching, discharge) EXCEPT that BV also usually has a fishy odor. Completely different infection that requires completely different treatment. Find out what it is first, then treat! Good luck...
(Midwest)
01/07/2018
Acidophilus
The refrigerated acidophilus chews work PERFECTLY for me! They dissolve easily... I don't experience that initial burning and extreme discomfort I feel upon insertion of a Monistat treatment... And relief comes QUICKLY. I insert one and chew one. If I act immediately (the day the little itch n twitch begins)... I'm back to normal in 1 or 2 days. I got mine from Walgreens. One bottle was $11, but they were buy one get one free! Sometimes I still use the external itch cream left over from the Monistat three day pack for immediate relief if I haven't acted right away... I think you can buy the cream separately as well... Hope this helps!
Acidophilus
Hello everyone im so glad to have found this site.. Ive been reading all the comments for 3 hrs now... Anyway I have recently started to experience excessive discharge as if I was on my period and of course the discharge comes with an odor.. I can smell it when I am sitting down and it makes me very self conscious which is not like me because I feel I am a very bubbly person.... Anyway I actually have my yearly gyn opt tomorrow and I was thinking of telling him about my problem but like most of you, all he did when I was suffering from multiple yeast infections was give me that metrogel and flucazanol and another one that starts with a T that I cant remember.. But honestly I didnt start having this discharge and odor until he perscribed that freakn flucaznol.!!!! .. So I recently have tried the acidophilus and folic acid.. Im not sure the dosage I should take but ive been taking 2 acidophilus and 3 folic acid and have even been taking 1 of the rephresh pills (which I think im going to stop taking those since it has really helped).. I will try inserting the acidophilus up the "twoat"to see if that helps as well.. This is my first post so I will keep you updated.. Thank you all for being so honest.. It really helps because sometimes I feel I am alone with this..
(Sterling, Va)
01/27/2012
(Florence, Italy)
03/05/2012
If there is discharge with a strong odor, you may have a bacterial infection or other problem, not a yeast infection. Likewise if it is a different color. I would recommend a visit to your doctor to be tested before you treat for a yeast infection, since if it's not one, natural remedies for yeast won't help.
(San Francisco, California)
03/15/2012
If you have a strong smell you might have bacterial vaginosis or BV. taking probiotics will help I recomend seeing a natropathic dr bc a regular dr is just going to perscrip a bunch of medicine that is going to throw you back and forth between BV and yeast.
Acidophilus

Something I tried for a recurring yeast infection that worked 10 years ago and I never had it again may work for BV but I can't try it because my monthly was not regular and now I don't have one. Take 2 acidophilus pills (normal dose in the bottle)for the 2 nights before your period starts and 2 nights after they end. My doctor told me acidophilus won't work for BV but this is better then inserting them vaginally and bleeding. I don't know how long to take them. I took them for 6 months and it also helped my constipation. Ten years later I am still regular were I never was before. So this will defintely help yeast infections and regularity. My thought is that acidophilus is good for the vaginal flora which SHOULD be good for BV but I can't test it.
Acidophilus

Acidophilus Pills from Trader Joe's worked instantly for curing yeast infections. I took a pill as soon as I felt any sort of itching and it worked immediately.
(New York, New York City)
04/28/2010
Acidophilus

I suffered a raging yeast infection after having to take a regime (3 months) of strong antibiotics for a staph infection a couple of years ago. Someone suggested taking Acidophillus... I took 4 capsules of the 8 Billion strength with each capsule as a maintance dose till I finished the antibiotic treatment... However, when I started on the Acidophillus treatment, I needed fast relief from the itching and inserted 2 capsules directly in the vagina 2xs a day... this really helped and gave a jump start to relieving my symptoms! I did this also while taking the capsules oraly.
I don't understand why Doctors are not savvy to this and tell their patients about Acidophillus when they prescribe antibiotics in the first place... maybe to sell higher priced Nystatin drugs thru big Pharmacital corporations!
This site is a blessing... I come here often in search of new remedies and cures! God bless you...
J. Browne
(Melbourne, Australia)
08/05/2009

Hello there.
I just wanted to add that I also had a recurring vaginal yeast infection (or thrush as it is known here) over the years. In Australia you can get an over the counter cream which you insert. However, I found this cream to be only a temporary fix, and the infection came back. Once, I had it twice within a two week period. Frustrated, I went to my local health food store and asked about an alternative...and yes...I was also told to insert 2 Acidophilus capsules directly into the vagina every night for 2 weeks. Major relief virtually overnight! This happened 2 years ago and I've never had an infection since!
The reason they don't tell you about it is because it's all way too simple, and if you knew about it, then you would stop having to go to the chemist for more of the other stuff which doesn't work in the long term.
ps. I discovered this site several months ago. Thank you to everyone responsible for making it work and getting the message out there. There are so many simple and cheap remedies you can use which work. Why poison yourself with pharmaceuticals which only make matters worse. All the best to everyone.
(Los Angeles, Ca)
01/26/2012
Acidophilus is just one of the many things I've done to combat a permanent yeast infection that I've had for over a decade. I can't tell you guys how I have suffered with this condition and I have tried every natural cure on the planet. It's been the single most challenging health problem that I've faced in my whole life. The emotional, sexual, personal, mental, and spiritual, aswell as finacial, and physical toll this condition has caused me cannot be sufficiently put into words. The worst thing about it, as I felt I was the only one. The only one that couldnt carry on a sex life like a normal person, (and I Love sex! ) the only one that had this embarrassing and distracting condition. I just felt and STILL feel so abnormal, and completely alone.
Thanks to my tireless research online and earthclinic, I can live like a somewhat normal person, and can have a functional sex life again.
Diet: Very important.. Green Smoothies, superfoods like Maca, Spirulina, Barley and Wheat grasses, aswell as Goji Berry juice, Coconut oil and flax oils. All essential to builing up your health and Immune system. Start there.
Supplements: Take em. I take everything. I am a health food, vitamin junkie, thanks to my yeasties!! Take at least a multivitamin, and a vitamin c tablet every day. AND Acidophilus, everyday.
Folic Acid: Some women claim to be yeast free by taking this vitamin everyday. It worked for me for about a year, then my body got used to it.
Herbs: Grapefruit seed extract, taken three times a day during and infection, HELPS A LOT. Six droplets in an empty gel cap three times a day. Also Oregano oil (filled to the brim of the gelcap) three times a day is great too. I rotate em every other infection. But dont store Oil or Oregano in a gelcap, it will burn rite thru the geletin.
Colloidal Silver, is good too. Taken everyday for maintenance. Some people swear it cures an infection in larger amounts.
Coconut oil: Some people claim this will cure an infection in a few days taken in large quantities a few times a day, but it didnt really work for me. I do tak it everyday in a smoothie and I think it does help.
Dong Quai: As a tea and herb. This works wonders for balancing hormones, which might also be your problem. I also read online a women cured her painful sex with this herb.
Tea tree oil: Awwww yesss!! Good ole' tea tree oil!! A long time friend and partner and ally in my battle against the yeast but it does nothing for me now, my body got used to it. I started inserted it in Gel caps in my vajajay mixed with a carrier oil like castor oil and it worked for a while to cure my infections!! I also used it as a preventative after sex, or swimming or whatever. Dabbed some on my fingers and wiped it around in there. But it stopped working after a couple years.
Douches: Acidophilus, sea salt, ACV douches, you name it. I did it. Douching is horrible for the PH. Caused me more problems than anything. Lavender oils, are good too, along with tea tree.
Neem oil can also be used to cure an infection. Inserted in a tampon or gel cap. No need for a carrier oil. Needs to be set in warm water to liquify during the winter months.
Myrrh oil. Awesome. I cannot say enough about this oil, its incredibly healing. It Burns tho, Ive almost killed myself with this oil before. NEEDS to be diluted. Use this oil in a gelcap, TWICE a day for 3 or more days. Like maybe 2 drops in a gelcap with almond oil or something.
Grapefruit seed extract in a gel cap with a carrier oil or DOUCHE (some women do that too) in also awesome. It does burn tho. Douching may be preferable. 20 drops or more in a cup of water.
Silver can also be put in a douche.
What I do: It's hard for me to cure an infection completely on supplements alone. Unfortunantly, I have to get rite in there down and dirty, and put things inside, actually IN the area to get really effective results. Investing in empty gel caps is a must.
Oils: Some women claim to cure infections with Castor Oil, Coconut oil, and Flax oil alone. For me, it helps, A LOT, and makes me functional for sex, and soothes the tissues, etc, but does not really cure an infection.
I also actually put Goldenseal EXTRACT, (with the alcohol) inside as well, and can cure an infection in 3 days. But it burns a bit, the buring subsides after a few minutes. Hey, I'm a vet at this. I don't care about a little burning. Anything not to have to endure burning, uncomfortable sex all the time!! Who wants to live like that!!!
Boric Acid: I hate Boric Acid. It works. It's strong. But it's messy and its a poison. I get the runs while using it, and it dries the tissues out so much that I have to wait a week after using it to have sex again. It's awful. But it does work.
Gential Violet. Some people swear by this remedy aswell. I myself, have not tried it.
Tampons:: I don't like tampons cuz I'm prone to yeast anyway, but I also find I waste a lot of medicine this way(which is expensive), and they are uncomfortable and drying.
Pau de Arco:: I've heard this works well as a tea/ douche and taken internally as a tea and supplement, but I have not tried it yet. They say that in Brazil, this is the only tree that doesn't get fungus.
My theory on this: I dont know why I have this problem. I don't know what my body is missing, or lacking, to where I cannot fend off even one infection and I contract this horrible problem each and everytime I have any kind of sexual activity.
I know I prolly have Vulvodynia. I've had this problem ever since I lost my virginity at 22, so maybe my body wasn't built for sex. But I do know, that ever since I started the herbs, my health is great, I look great, feel better, and at times, when I manage to have yeast free, sexually active periods, sex feels awesome, and clean!! And my flowers feel the way it did when I was a teenager. So, yes, it's possible to feel normal again, and to have normal sex again. It's just time consuming and something you have to fight for more than others, I guess.
(Anywhere, Ks, Usa)
01/31/2012
Tanja, You are not alone. I too have had this problem since I lost my virginity at the age of 19. I'm now 41. I've never had a normal sex life either. There always seems to be some kind of problem. I've been suffering from an ongoing yeast infection for nearly a year now. I can't take it anymore. I'm here to learn how to "cure" it myself, since my doctor hasn't succeeded. THANK YOU for your information.
(Los Angeles, Ca)
02/20/2012
I also want to to add to my post::
What I mean by empty gel caps is, I put the essential oils IN the Gel caps with a carrier oil, and insert into the vagina twice a day.
What I do now::
I use grapefruit seed extract in a small amount of water(half cup, about 20-25 drops) as a douche or in a gel cap, (bout 5 drops) to olive oil. The Myrrh oil I do not swallow. I put in a gel cap with a carrier oil and insert in the vag, twice a day. About 3 to 5 drops, just the myrrh. Goldenseal can be put in a gelcap or douche aswell and inserted up there twice a day. I use grapefruit seed and goldenseal EXTRACT together when I have an infection now, the Myrrh when I want to pull out the big guns.
I also take grapefruit extract and swallow about 3 gelcaps a day (5-8 drops per cap) for a week. And an ounce of colloidal silver twice daily for a week during infection along with the extract, inserted into the vag AND swallowed
I'm gonna make my own colloidal silver here soon. It's quite expensive.
(London, Uk)
03/20/2012
Hi everyone! For those women who insert a capsule directly into the vagina at night-what type of capsules are these?
I am trying probiotic capsules but the problem is that they never stay up there... By morn they come out when I go to the toilet. Some of the coating may have dissolved, but its not enough for the contents to start working in the vagina.
The first time I did it... It stayed up there and dissolved but I haven't managed to get it right again! :( I'm just literally throwing them down the toilet! Any advice on this please? I'm running out of ideas and so far they have already been "creative"! Thanking you all in advance for offering your advice! From a fellow thrush battler!!
Wishing good health and peace to all!
(Richardson, Tx, Usa)
06/17/2012
Plain yogurt is a popular, well known cure for a yeast infection. Organic if possible, but make sure it's plain yogurt and not flavored or heavily sugared. Use topically/locally(i.e. inside you) for best results. Yes awkward I know, but effective, and works quicker than the dietary or suppository capsules. You do want to address the systemic side too, so make yourself a yogurt smoothie also. This will provide amazing relief (straight from the fridge... Aaah) and not only is drug free, but directly gives the yeast infection exactly what it needs. I found the most basic less-fussed-with plain yogurt at the Indian grocer near me, but any plain yogurt should do the job. Make yogurt a regular part of your eating habits and you will greatly minimize yeast issues.
(Denver, Co)
07/06/2012
(Pittsburgh, Pa)
08/19/2012
Jenifer from LA, Look into cytolytic Vaginosis and see a specialist. You could be treating something that you do not have. I guess Cytolytic Vaginosis involves having too much of the "good" bacteria. I would definitely see a doctor who specializes in complicated vaginitis. It seems like Preseed oil (lube for women trying to conceive) was the solution for one girl who was just continuously diagnosed with yeast and bv with the typical remedies never working. With a condition that complicated you must see a specialist.
Acidophilus

Thanks for this wonderful webiste. Despite reading all the comments for ACV, I'm sorry to report that it hasn't helped me in my battle with Yeast Infections!! I've also tried numerous other methods - Ted's suggestion of Nicaniamide, probiotics etc. I have found some relief with yoghurt though - I make my own with a high bacterial content & insert it into my vagina at night. My husband (graphic as it is!!) then inserts his you-know-what, which pushes it in & around properly i guess. It might be a bit bizarre, but I've tried ALL the remedies & this is the only thing that makes any difference. I feel substantially better, so hope that this helps someone out there!!
(Birmingham, Al)
07/22/2011
(Birmingham, Alabama)
08/09/2011
(London, Uk)
10/07/2015
Acidophilus
I've been having a reocurring yeast infection for almost a year and a half now. (A few bouts of BV every now and then as well) I had never had either problem ever until a year and a half ago.. it's so frustrating. The only thing that really worked was taking 9 diflucan pills over the course of 3 months. But, after a few months of relief, i got another yeast infection. and, now since it's summer i guess, i've had a yeast infection since the beginning of may that won't go away. doctor gave me terazol and diflucan, it only got worse.. i tried acidophilus, but i guess i took too many a day because it made my stomach hurt! I just tried yogurt insertion. I hope it works. I don't know what else to do. I'm considering getting off of birth control as well, or at least taking it in a way where i don't get periods. Maybe that'll help. Has getting off birth control worked for many people?
(Houston, TX)
09/08/2008
Mandi: I would not continue to take too much more diflucan. I recently went to the doctor for what I thought was a yeast infection, later I found out it was a bacterial infection; however, she told me that continued long use of diflucan will eventually make your body not respond to the medicine, and when this happens it will be almost impossible to get rid of a yeast infection. The most effective thing to do is to use a 7 day cream. Old fashion I know, but it's safe and effective.
(Manhattan, Montana, USA)
11/04/2008
Response to Mandi from Fort Worth.
I also dealt with constant yeast infections for about a year to year and a half. I finally went off birth control. After 2 months of being off them I felt better than I had in years! No more itching, no more burning, no more pain during intercourse. Plus, for me (and it seems the opposite for most people), I had a shorter period! "naturally" my period became only 2.5-3 days long. Heavy, but manageable. And then done with. On the pill, it would drag on for 8 days and be just enough bleeding to be an annoyance. Plus two days after it stopped, a new yeast infection would start. After being off the pill for a year, I tried going back on. Within 1 week I had the same aweful symptoms I had the year before. So I went right off it the next month. Just this past month (another year and half later) I have given the pill a third try... and guess where I am? On this site looking for more remedies to try!! An infection started last night- 3 days after the end of my period, and two days into a new pack of pills. My obvious answer is to stay away from the pill (which I had taken for nearly 15 year before I ever had problems like this). And yes, i have tried different doses and brands. But I am wanting a method of birth control that isn't permanent or requires too much preparation (i.e. diaphram). So my quest continues... I have tried boric acid suppositories (they work ok- less mess- but the infection always came back), I have tried all the doctor prescribed creams, gels, tablets and they have never worked, other than giving me a few days relief. The tablets (diflucan, etc.) only made me feel ill and upset my stomach. I have been eating yogurt everyday for the last 2 years. I went on a "yeast free" diet for a while. I am going to now try the apple cider vinegar approach. But ultimately I see myself back at the doctor's office trying to get a different form of birth control. In my experience, the only noticeable difference, and CURE, was going off the pill. So Mandi, if you can, try it and see what happens. Good Luck!
(Queens, NY)
12/08/2008
This is a question for Niccole from Manhattan, Montana... I have been on the pill for almost ten years. In the last year and 1/2 I have gotten a yeast infection every month after my period. Now it seems that its not going away at all after using diflucan and monistat. I have cut all refined sugar, wheat and limited dairy out of my diet, I drink ACV, take acidophilus and garlic in pill form and nothing works! Its really getting depressing and I dont know what else to do besides come off the pill. Do you think its possible that this is the cause even though I've been on it for almost 10 yrs straight? Also, after 15 years did you experience and side effects from coming off the pill?
(Kennewick, WA)
01/17/2009
This is in response to Niese from Houston, TX I have a similar story to yours. I've had chronic yeast infections that was treated with diflucan. I've recently been diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis from e-coli. Do you know why you got BV? I'm curious if continued use of diflucan can allow certain bacterias to grow? Any information is helpful, thanks!
(New York, Ny)
01/10/2010
I was suffering from recurrent yeast infections an BV a few years back. I got tired of taking the prescribed medications, because fighting the BV caused a yeast infection and then getting rid of the yeast would only last for a little while and back and forth and back and forth.
I started taking acidophilus orally (more than 100 million active per pil) twice a day and inserting garlic cloves into my vagina at night (strange right?) but it worked.
Also, I got rid of my partner. Sounds funny, but I do believe he was constantly passing the yeast and possibly even the BV back to me everytime I worked to get rid of it (that, and he was cheating on me anyway) but I noticed that after having sex with him (which was usually unprotected) I would get a yeast infection. I believe either he brought them to me or was carrying something that I may have given him but men usually dont get symptoms and so sex with him was disrupting my pH.
I suggest to any woman who is getting recurrent infections to definitely convince their partner to treat for yeast or to get a prescription of the flagyl to take orally for BV. It's very possible HE may be the reason you can't get a cure...and the pair of you might not even know it.
I haven't had a single yeast infection since I stopped dating and sleeping with him, but I also haven't had one since I started regularly taking Acidophilus, limiting my sugar intake and the garlic rememdy for about a week... and I eat yogurt (mostly, because I love yogurt tho! lol)
I am currently treating a very mild *so mild in fact i didn't know i had it until i had my annual pap smear* bout of BV with metrogel and am still taking my acidophilus regularly and will probably insert garlic vaginally and maybe even some capsules of the probiotic vaginally after i finish the metrogel just in case, as I dont want yeast to think they can come back!! Its been a great few years without yeast whereas i was having an infection every few weeks and was miserable!!
(Milwaukee, Wi)
07/15/2010
Caralyne from NY, NY who noticed that every time she had sex with her boyfriend she'd get a yeast infection: while it's entirely possible he was passing it back and forth. . . If you were using lubricant for sex, that might also be the culprit. Most drug-store brand lubricants are thickened with glycerin, which is a sugar. And if it's flavored. . . That's usually even MORE glycerin. Yeast loves the stuff, so if you're prone to yeast infections, and notice that you get itchy after sex, you might want to check the label and find yourself a water-based lube that doesn't have glycerin in it.
(Baltimore, Md)
01/24/2013
Definitely stop taking the birth control if you can. I just went to my gyn 3 days ago for having constant yeast infections. I started birth control well after I was having the yeast infections, but my doctor (a different doctor perscribed me birth control) said being on birth control would make make the issue worse. I just stopped a few days ago, so I don't really have any feedback for you other than that. Good luck to you though!
Acidophilus

I have had a yeast infection for the past 5 years. I tried EVERYTHING. The apple cider vineger douche worked for a couple of days but the infection returned. Then I tried a cure I found for candidia, which I think I have/had, do to the other side effect of dandruff. I ate a section of a garlic clove and took acidophilus tablets. I was on the tablets, 3 a day for about 4 days, then I took a section of garlic before I went to bed on the fourth day. The next day I found that the white discharge I had been used to in my underwear was not there! Gross I know-- but think what a relief that was after 5 years of it.!! I will continue with the tablets and garlic to see if my dandruff clears up. Also I have found since taking the garlic that my tounge getting less of the white stuff (another sign of candidia). Try it! Hopefully it help someone else!
(America)
09/27/2009
(Oakland, Ca)
02/19/2010
I had a severe Candida infection after taking a six week course of Doxycycline as an anti-malarial. It took me 8 months of dedicated effort, but I killed the Candida. If you believe you have a serious Candida overgrowth, I would suggest the following:
1) Colon cleanse
2) Acidophilus pills, on the high end of the recommended dosage
3) An anti-candida diet. Essentially, you are eliminating sugars which the yeast needs to live. Eventually, it starves and you are able to return to a "normal" diet. I did an anti-candida diet for 5 months and lost 20 pounds, 5 of it almost immediately. My hair, skin, and nails were pristine, and I looked and felt great. I'd stay away from any recommendations that suggest you can have fruit. You're symptoms will ebb and flow as you starve or feed the yeast.
Acidophilus

I had a girlfriend who got yeast infections every month before her period. Her doctor told her it was hormonal. I did not buy it. I told her body had too much candida and she needed to take a Probiotic daily and that would balance the good bacteria in her system. She didn't believe me. She tried it and the next month, no yeast infection! I take Probiotics often and they help balance the bacteria in your digestive track which helps balance it in your whole body. I use "Garden of Life" Probiotic but there are others out there. You can check GNC as well. The Apple Cider Vinegar is a great "cure." A Probiotic can be used as a preventative supplement that can keep you from developing them later on.
Acidophilus

Cure for yeast infection: One freeze dried acidophilus tablet inserted in the AM and one in the PM for the first day. Following 4-5 days--insert one tablet in the morning.
(Houston, Texas)
10/18/2009

I have been having recurring yeast infections for the last 4 years. This year I was diagnosed with HPV. My doctor adviced me to continue living a regular life style and that the HPV would go away on its own. The following week he inserted a Merina IUD. I told him that I thought the birth controls I was taking imbalanced my harmones. The IUD seem like it's not helping either. Every month I get a yeast infection. This month is by far the Worst Ever. I took off of work, because I was so uncomfortable. Aft reading about Acidolphius on this website, OMG!!!! Thank you sooooo much for the advice. To be honest, I was sort of skeptical about inserting a pill into my virgina. After trying prescribed medication (Diflucan, Terozol, etc.)and even over the counter medicine Monistat, I was desperate. I was sooo uncomfortable with the itching and burning that I was desperate for any advice. I went to ___ and purchased the 1 billion acidolphius. I took 3 orally, and I inserted 1 tablet vaginally. (I did not have time to freeze it, I just immediately inserted it). I feel like a completelly new lady. There in no itching, burning, or irritation (the first day). For the next 4-5 days I will continue doing this.
(Sydney, Australia)
10/03/2011
I've had chronic yeast infections for the past year, almost the same amount of time I've been on the birth control pill. I think stress and poor diet last year had something to do with it as well. I have tried everything in the last 5 months, I eat healthy, am (relatively) stress free, working out more, stopped taking birth control, tried the candida diet plus supplements (no sugar no alcohol! ) for 2 months, tried garlic, acidophilus, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, folic acid and Vit E supplements, and finally, relucantely and hopefully, resorted to Canesten (Monistat) creams, and even took 2 diflucan (flucanazole) pills twice over 2 weeks and.... noooo it's coming back.
I haven't found the cure yet but I think I'm onto something. I am out of options aside from going on the candida diet for longer period of time than 2 months.
I think probiotics hold the key but it has to be the right probiotics - L. Reuteri and L. Rhamnosus. You have to get your vagina back in balance with the yeast and have to build up good bacteria and get your pH back to the right level (which is more acidic). I found a product called Femdophilus that seems to have rave reviews on amazon.com. I found a product that I can order in Australia with the same strains, (Nature's Way Reuteri Pearl). I REALLY REALLY think I'm onto something and I didn't want to miss sharing it. I promise I will report back in 2 months, but I'm sure it can't hurt to try a different probiotic so if anyone else wants to try one now and report back as well. If anything, look at the reviews on amazon.com for the Femdophilus. I've never seen so many positive comments about one thing.
(Sydney, Australia)
10/08/2011
(Sydney, Nsw)
12/29/2011
Update: CURED. My home pH test was alkaline and tipped me off that it may be bacterial rather than yeast. Went to a different doctor, told her all my symptoms inc results of the pH test, got a pelvic exam and a swab done - it was in fact bacterial. Took the antibiotics as prescibed, have been cured for 2 months now. I still take probiotics with reuteri strain daily. Nothing alone but the antibiotics worked for me.
Get a proper diagnosis!
(Boston, Mabostonm)
04/20/2012
In reading lots of these replies I see assumptions and attempts which are blind. My "better half" has a yeast infection once a year or less. This one the itching is driving her nuts which brought me here. Some of the people posting are saying they've had the symptoms for years or more. For those--- get yourself a referral to a qualified major teaching hospital and present your case and history to people that won't stop until they find the REAL ANSWERS.
Typically your local (insert doctor here) has a practice and has a handle on the usuals and routine appointments for screenings. There is absolutely ZERO REASON for anyone to suffer these effects chronically without following a diet or prescription that is placed as a solution driven by CLINICAL FACTS. Don't place all of your trust into a first line staple doctor. If you have relentless symptoms of this or any other kind--- and there is no relief from your first line of defense medical attention, then you need to advocate for your own health and sanity to find the real answers with medical facts- biological test results- clinical analysis- and REAL answers for the symptoms. Most if not all insurance sources allow for you to qualify for immediate referral to people that dive far deeper than the community or even regionally percueved 'expert'.
Do some homework and locate the real experts - the ones that perform clinical trials to find real answers- the ones that find the answer to the most complicated symptoms. People entrust their primary care physician and in most cases the next level of "focus" that is refffered to... Then they assume that there is no answer. That is completely ridiculous. For those that do have chronic symptoms please insist on a boatload of clinical and biological facts in QUANTITY- and don't just assume the answer you get is the REAL answer.
(Boston, Ma)
04/20/2012
Part 2 as my browser did an oopsie.
Bottom line- you need to advocate for your own well being. If the facts are few and the clinical assessment is weak based on those facts--- YOU need to insist on getting a higher quality of care. Few doctors do it and fewer want to question the easy answer they've come to.
Even for these remedies- people should really request a clinical trial in a teaching hospital to see what effect truly occurs based on the ideas expressed here. I find it absurd that so many people realize relief from things doctors would never prescribe. Is it because a pharmaceutical isn't involved?! ?! ? Please be vocal beyond this great site of sharing. There are obvious disconnects between relief, cures, doctors, and pharma-money. Drugs are not the only answer at ANY doctor in most cases.... Yet every patient walks out with a prescription. Doesn't this site prove that point and in context of this ailment it makes me need to express these facts. Relief to all and I hope things are "fixed" or relieved. Happy days and be your own medical advocate- nobody else will do it.
(Bloomfield, Nj)
05/15/2012
Hi I just wanted to thank everyone who posted about Acidophilus pills. After having a bad sinus infection and being put on antibiotics I got the worst raging yeast infection ever. OTC medicines did nothing to help it. I went to my gyno and he gave me 3 pills (don't remember what they were) and told me to do another round of monastadt. It got better but was still not gone completely. I figured before I made another doctors appt to see what else I could try and found this site. I got the Trader Joes Super Acidophilus pills. I take one before dinner and insert one at bedtime. I've been doing this for 3 days now and my yeast infection seems to be gone! I'm going to insert the pills for two more days to be sure but fingers crossed it doesn't come back. Thank you so much to everyone who posted.
Acidophilus, Garlic, Yogurt

I have had reoccurent yeast infections BV for years. I am apparently immune to the prescription drug they give you for yeast and a I am painfully allergic to the otc creams. I read about garlic pessaries before (1 clove tied up in cheesecloth) and it had worked in the past so i tried it again. I was always skeptical of the yogurt thing but in desperation tried it and it worked IMMEDIATELY. so now, 2 acidophilus pills orally, garlic pessaries at night/8-10 HRS and topical and internal yogurt as needed for discomfort. I always hated yogurt but I thank god for it now.
Acidophilus, Vitamin C, Hydrogen Peroxide

Yeast Infection: A combination of Acidophilus, vitamin C, and hydrogen peroxide. I took 3 different kinds of Acidophilus on the first day I noticed the infection, each with 2x their normal doses (one full daily dose of each in the morning and evening). I also inserted Acidophilus the first night i noticed the infection, two of the different kinds (capsules) I had on hand. Since one of the three brands was chewable I decided not to use it like that. Then I would insert Acidophilus in both the morning and before i went to bed. I took about 4000 mgs of vitamin C each day. The last thing I did was put Hydrogen peroxide on my labia to relieve the itching. It stings for a minute, but after it is sweet relief. After the first night of this regimen there was about 90% less discharge and much less itching.
I was amazed that i was almost completely cured in just one day.
So, in total the plan is-
1) a double dose of more than one brand of Acidophilus
2) Insert acidophilus twice daily, in the morning and before bed. But I think the gel capsules are best for inserting into the vagina.
3) 4000 mgs of vitamin C each day. I took up to about 8000 mgs a day, but in some people that much vitamin C can give you a stomach ache.
4) Hydrogen Peroxide on a cotton ball swiped over all the itchy parts. I used it whenever I itched and after each time i used the bathroom.
I was about 90% better IN ONE DAY!
(Australia)
07/11/2012
hi. I was on antibiotics for about a week. I noticed the itching, but I thought it would go away after I finished my course. in the past that has been the case when I am on antibiotics and I am always eating yoghurt.
however this time things were different. After I finished my course my symptons were INSANE. I was really swollen and itchy and there was tonnes of discharge... Just urrg.. I tried Apple Cider Vinegar the first day and that helped a little but the itching always came back. Discharge is minimal. Though it's hard to tell with all the coconut oil :D
i bought some kefir but it was one of those sweetened ones and my symptons were worse. I stopped taking that immediately.
the next day I tried garlic and it helped immensely. I started cleansing as well with hydrogen peroxide and then topically applying coconut oil. This provided immense relief. the swelling and itching have subsided substantially.
last night I inserted a probiotic and did the cleansing thing again. And I feel almost normal. The itching is still there but it's manageable. I JUST WANT IT GONE!
starting yesterday, I have cut back on all sugars, juices, fruits and carbs and have been taking probiotics, chlorella (a prebiotic/detoxifier) and olive leaf extract ( A GREAT ANTIFUNGAL/ANTIBACTERIAL). I am on detox now to get what I believe to be a candida overgrowth under control. This has been the first time I have had antibtiotics in six months. I dont get YI otherwise. And I only started getting them when I was 16 while taking antibiotics but yoghurt always helped. I am 20 years old.
i wondered why my body did not stablise itself like it normally does. I think it had to do with the fact I was drinking lots of juice while on the antibiotics and not eating enough yoghurt and that is probably why my symptoms have been more stubborn. It must have been feeding the candida
is anyone aware of how long this usually takes?