What Are Some Yeast Infection Causes?

Many people deal with yeast infections at one time or another. In most cases, it is a simple task to treat the infection and get on with life. There are actually several different factors that can lead to the development of a yeast infection. Here are a few examples of yeast infection causes that are relatively common.

Perhaps one of the more common ways that one develops a yeast infection is due to sexual activity with an infected partner. This can involve any type of sexual activity that involves interaction with the area currently carrying the infection. For example, if the mouth or esophagus is infected, the infection can be spread through oral sex. In the event that the genitals are currently infected, it is possible to share the infection with a partner. When someone becomes aware that he or she currently has an active yeast infection, it is a good idea to refrain from sexual activity until the infection is cleared up.

In some people, a yeast infection can be caused by a reaction to some sort of foreign substance being introduced into the body. For example, it is possible to develop a yeast infection as a result of taking an oral contraceptive. Some lubricating agents can also trigger the development of a yeast infection. Even some antibiotics used to treat various bodily ailments may lead to a yeast infection as one of the side effects. Whenever an outside agent is identified as the cause for the infection, discontinuing use of the agent will normally help to prevent a recurrence.

Yeast infection causes may also come about due to allergic reactions to various foods. Because some degree of yeast is always present in the body, the allergen may trigger an increase in production that is beyond what the body's immune system can control. The end result is the development of an infection either externally or in the intestinal tract. Generally, identifying the foods and avoiding them will go a long way in preventing a second round of yeast problems.

There are other situations that can lead to a yeast infection. Yeast infection causes such as an immune system that is weakened by stress, the presence of HIV, and even ongoing health issues such as diabetes can increase the chances for the development of a yeast infection. If you are having trouble with yeast, see a doctor and find out what factors may be causing your problem.

Examples of Natural Yeast Infection Cures

If you prefer to treat a yeast infection through natural means rather than resorting to antibiotics that may have some unwelcome side effects, you do have a few options. There are actually several natural yeast infection cures that can be obtained from any herbalist. Here are a few examples of herbs that can help with curing your condition.

For internal issues such as a yeast infection in the intestinal tract, buchu is often helpful. The leaves of the plant are helpful with helping to kill the infection in the intestines, as well as help with any traces found in the urinary tract. Buchu is rich in calcium, chromium, and potassium, which are all nutrients that can aid in fighting off infections.

Garlic is another herb that can be very helpful in clearing up a yeast infection. With many agents that aid in killing off internal parasites and worms, garlic also helps to build up the immune system so that the body can fight off the yeast infection. This is one of the yeast infection cures that you probably already have in your kitchen spice rack. Pure garlic powder or even crushed cloves of garlic used to make a tea or tincture can help soothe symptoms and put you on the way to healing.

White oak bark is another of the natural yeast infection cures that you can call upon. With healing and soothing qualities for the gastro-intenstinal tract, white oak can be taken internally or used to create a poultice to place directly on an infected area of the skin. A tea make from white oak is a time-honored cure for thrush, which is simply a yeast infection in the mouth. Like buchu, white oak is also rich in calcium and several other vitamins and nutrients that are essential for immune system health.  Using buchu and white oak together, along with minced garlic or garlic oil can often help to reverse a yeast infection in a very short period of time, without the need to use any type of synthetic medications.

As always, please consult your doctor for any medical advice.