Yeast infections are one of the most common vaginal health concerns women experience. They can be uncomfortable, inconvenient, and—when left untreated—tend to come back again and again. The good news? When you know what to look for, yeast infections are highly manageable and often easy to prevent.

This guide breaks down the early signs of a yeast infection, what causes them, and how to find relief using both traditional treatments and natural remedies.

What Causes a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection, or vaginal candidiasis, happens when there’s an overgrowth of Candida—a naturally occurring fungus that lives in the body, typically in balance with good bacteria. When that balance is disrupted, yeast can multiply quickly, leading to irritation, itching, and discharge.

Several factors can trigger this overgrowth:

1. Antibiotics
Antibiotics don’t just kill the “bad” bacteria; they also wipe out the beneficial bacteria that keep yeast in check. Without that protective balance, Candida can grow unchecked, leading to infection.

2. Hormonal Changes
Hormones play a big role in vaginal health. Birth control pills, pregnancy, and even normal menstrual cycles can cause hormonal fluctuations that disrupt the natural microbiome.

3. Diet and Lifestyle
High-sugar diets, poor sleep, and elevated stress levels can all affect your immune system and encourage yeast overgrowth. Candida thrives on sugar, so diets rich in refined carbohydrates can make infections more likely.

4. Medical Conditions
People with diabetes or compromised immune systems are at higher risk for yeast infections because of the body’s reduced ability to regulate fungal growth.

Common Yeast Infection Symptoms

Recognizing yeast infection symptoms early can help you seek treatment promptly and avoid complications. While every woman’s experience is unique, some of the most common signs include:

• Itching and irritation: Persistent itching or discomfort in the vaginal area is often the first symptom.

• Burning sensation: You might feel burning during urination or intercourse.

• Discharge: Thick, white, odorless discharge resembling cottage cheese is a classic sign.

• Redness and swelling: The affected area may appear red, inflamed, or tender to the touch.

These symptoms can overlap with other vaginal conditions, so if you’re unsure whether it’s a yeast infection or something else (like bacterial vaginosis or irritation from a new product), it’s best to check with your healthcare provider.

Treatment Options for Yeast Infections

For most women, yeast infections are easily treated with over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medications. However, natural remedies can also play a supportive role.

1. Natural Remedies

• Coconut oil: Naturally antifungal, coconut oil can be applied topically to soothe irritation.

• Tea tree oil: This essential oil has potent antifungal properties but should always be diluted before use. And Bona Dea Naturals Feminine Spray has both coconut oil and tea tree (amongst other excellent natural ingredients known for their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. 

• Probiotics: Taking oral probiotics or eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kefir can help restore bacterial balance. Some women will actually put yogurt directly on the area and swear by it. Not something I've tried but I wouldn't see any harm in it. 

• Boric Acid Suppositories: Anyone who has been with me from the beginning knows that I swear by boric acid suppositories. Honestly, for me, they work better than any OTC or prescription. They are available for purchase but you can actually make them at home yourself easily and cheaply. 
  

2. Lifestyle & Hygiene Practices

These are mostly preventative but certainly things to keep in mind to keep an active infection from getting worse.

• Keep the vaginal area clean and dry.

• Wear breathable cotton underwear.

• Avoid scented products or harsh soaps in the genital area.

• Change out of wet clothing promptly after workouts or swimming.

3. Antifungal Creams and Suppositories
Common options like clotrimazole and miconazole are available at most pharmacies and can be effective for some women

2. Oral Medication
Fluconazole (Diflucan) is a prescription antifungal pill often used for more persistent infections and can be effective for some women. 

Managing Recurring Yeast Infections

If you experience yeast infections more than four times a year, you may be dealing with recurrent yeast infections. This can be frustrating, but understanding the underlying causes is key to breaking the cycle.

Possible triggers include:

• Hormonal imbalances from birth control or hormone therapy

• Frequent antibiotic use

• Elevated blood sugar from unmanaged diabetes

• Tight or non-breathable clothing that traps moisture

If you’re dealing with chronic infections, your healthcare provider may recommend testing to confirm that Candida is the cause and rule out other conditions. Sometimes, recurring symptoms can mimic yeast infections but actually stem from other sources like dermatitis, bacterial imbalance, or even allergic reactions to hygiene products.

Yeast Infections and Your Menstrual Cycle

Yeast infections can appear before, during, or after your period. Hormonal changes—especially fluctuations in estrogen—can temporarily affect the balance of bacteria and yeast.

• If you’re using prescribed antifungal treatments, continue them even while menstruating.

• Avoid tampons during a yeast infection, as they can absorb medication and worsen irritation.

• Choose unscented pads or menstrual cups and change them frequently to minimize moisture.

Some women also notice a pattern of yeast infections around certain times of their cycle. Tracking your symptoms can help identify triggers and allow you to take preventive steps in advance.

Postpartum and Yeast Infections

After childbirth, hormonal shifts and antibiotic use during delivery can make yeast infections more common. Breastfeeding mothers may also experience yeast-related nipple or oral thrush infections in their infants.

Maintaining good hygiene, wearing breathable clothing, and supporting your immune system through balanced nutrition can help reduce postpartum yeast infection risk.

Preventing Future Yeast Infections

Prevention often comes down to supporting your body’s natural balance. Here are some simple but effective strategies:

• Limit antibiotic use to only when prescribed by a healthcare professional.

• Choose breathable fabrics like cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing.

• Maintain a balanced diet by reducing sugar intake and incorporating probiotic foods.

• Stay hydrated to support overall health and immune function.

• Avoid douching or scented products, which can disrupt the vaginal microbiome.

If you’re prone to yeast infections, consider making small, consistent lifestyle adjustments. Simple habits—like changing out of sweaty clothes quickly, maintaining stable blood sugar levels, and choosing pH-balanced feminine care products—can make a big difference.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

While mild yeast infections sometimes clear on their own, persistent or recurrent infections warrant a professional diagnosis. Seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms don’t improve after using an antifungal treatment.

• You experience more than four infections per year.

• You’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

• You’re unsure whether your symptoms are caused by yeast.

Your healthcare provider can confirm the diagnosis through a simple test and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Understanding Your Body

Recognizing yeast infection symptoms early can help you treat them promptly and avoid unnecessary discomfort. While antifungal medications are highly effective, natural and preventive approaches can also support long-term balance and health.

Understanding your body, your triggers, and your options empowers you to manage yeast infections effectively—and prevent them from coming back. By maintaining healthy habits, supporting your microbiome, and paying attention to early symptoms, you can protect your vaginal health and overall well-being.