If you have symptoms of vaginal yeast infection, you're not the only one. Research has found that 80 percent of women will get a yeast infection at least once throughout their lifespan and 50 percent will be infected more than once. Because of this, it is vital that you are not embarrassed and go to the doctor to get treatment immediately.

The most notable cause for a vaginal yeast infection is through a fungus Candida Albicans. Usually the bacteria that are present in the vagina helps maintain Candida preventing any form of infection from occurring. However, sometimes the fungus will go unnoticed resulting in an infection.

There are a number of things that can agitate Candida and allow it to cause problems in a women's vagina. One of the more common causes of Candida is a high amount of antibiotics, which decreases the amount of bacteria in the vagina to block the fungus. Allergies and irritants, diabetes and a high blood sugar level are a few more things that can create Candida.

There are several things you can do to help avoid getting a vaginal yeast infection, which is especially relevant for women who are prone to a yeast infection or have had one before. Avoiding colored or perfumed toilet paper can reduce the risk of killing off bacteria within the vagina. Taking bubble baths should also be avoided, or at least limited because of the soap used in bubble baths. Other notable things include making sure your vaginal area is thoroughly dry and cotton underwear is worn and changed often.

When it comes to treating vaginal yeast infections, there are several options to choose from and several things to avoid. Most times a simple over-the-counter cream is sufficient enough to get rid of the infection. If the infection comes back shortly or the cream doesn't work, you will want to get a stronger prescription medication to treat the infection.

A self remedy to cleaning out Candida is eating yogurt and applying it in the vaginal area. The reason for this is because yogurt contains the bacteria that usually keep Candida in check within the vagina. If you want to try things yourself, do not use aloe vera or baking soda. You can use aloe vera to reduce the itching and discomfort, but it will not cure the infection at all. As for applying baking soda for itch relief, it will make the vagina more alkaline and can potentially worsen the infection.

Treating a vaginal yeast infection can potentially take a couple of weeks, but it has a better chance of healing quicker the sooner you seek treatment. If the itching becomes too discomforting you can apply aloe vera, but avoid baking soda. By taking note to the ways mentioned above on how to avoid vaginal yeast infection and by treating the infection immediately, the infection should go away quickly.