One thing that is rarely taken into account on lasting yeast infections is the fact that yeast is significantly influenced by the vagina's natural monthly fluctuating acid base (PH balance). The pH balance changes with monthly hormonal rhythms. Most women with yeast infections that last for months notice that the symptoms manifest or worsen a few days prior to the onset of menstruation and often clear up or improve when the period ends. Just prior to menstruation and throughout the time of the menstrual flow, the vaginal pH balance becomes significiantly more alkaline, allowing yeast colonies that have been in a dormant state to become active and produce symptoms.

Many women treating yeast infections with prescription and over the counter remedies assume that when the symptoms go away the infection is gone for good. Unfortunately, sometimes there is another onset of symptoms, perhaps as soon as the onset of the next period. The main reason for yeast infections that last for months is that dormant colonies of yeast were not eradicated by the perious treatment.

A paste made of slippery elm and a little water can help relieve the symptoms associated with yeast infections that last for months. This can be applied as needed. Another way to relieve symptoms is to keep aloe vera juice in the refrigerator and apply it to your vulva on a cotton pad as needed. For more info see

Some women prefer herbal remedies to help keep their body's pH balance at a level that discourages yeast infections. Tea tree oil vaginal suppositories are used by many women. Besides being very soothing, the suppositories possess powerful anti-fungal activity that can help return the vaginal pH balance to a normal state.

Women with yeast infections that last for months should eat yogurt every day. Yogurt contains lactobacillus acidophilus, a bacterium that occurs naturally in the vagina. Acidophilus kills yeast by producing hydrogen peroxide. Some women apply yogurt directly to the affected area to kill the yeast infection. If you use yogurt on your genital area, make sure that you buy plain yogurt with no sugar added.

Try the following steps to help prevent yeast infections:

•Don't use douches.

•Avoid scented hygiene products like bubble bath, sprays, pads and tampons.

•Change tampons and pads often during your period.

•Don't wear tight underwear or clothes made of synthetic fibers.

•Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch.

•Change out of wet swimsuits and exercise clothes as soon as possible.

•Take two acidophilus capsules every day.

Bear in mind that yeast infections that last for months could be the sign of something more serious, like diabetes or HIV. If you have infections that persist you should talk to your doctor about the treatments that are available. Nobody should have to live with yeast infections that last for months.