Yeast infections are caused by a type of yeast called Candida, it also causes vaginitis. Inside a healthy vagina there is a lot of good bacteria and not a lot of yeast. Sometimes things happen that causes the balance of bacteria and yeast to disrupt causing yeast cells to become too plenty. Taking antibiotics can cause this, so can diabetes and HIV. Yeast infections can also happen when there is an injury to the inner vagina. Douching can also cause yeast infections as well as scented vaginal products and birth control.

There are a few preventative measures you can take to help decrease the amount of y east infections that you get. Douching can cause a yeast infection. It kills the good bacteria that keep the yeast cells under control. Taking vitamin C can boost your immunity so you're not as prone to getting yeast infections. Oranges, grapefruit, mango, red and green peppers, and spinach are all good sources of Vitamin C. or try taking a supplement. 

Wearing cotton underwear will help prevent a yeast infection because the yeast thrives in warm moist areas; the cotton is breathable so it will keep you dry and cool. Using cotton feminine products like tampons and pads will help too. Make sure that when you go swimming you change out of your swim suit right away so you area stays dry. Using colored and scented toilet paper can cause irritation that causes yeast infections. Using powders in the vaginal area to keep dry may however keep you dry but products that are scented and or contain starch can actually help fungus like yeast grow. Eating products that have white refined sugar can cause reoccurring yeast infections because yeast thrives on sugar. Eating fewer sweets can help you prevent yeast infections.

Symptoms of yeast infections are itching and soreness inside the vagina. It can cause pain and burning when you urinate or have sex. You can also get thick, clumpy, white or yellowish discharge from the vagina as well. Some people say it looks like cottage cheese and its more likely to happen a week before your menstrual period.

It is recommended that if your symptoms persist after using and over the counter product you should see a doctor. The doctor will more than likely take a culture and do a microscopic analysis in the lab. It is the most accurate way to get diagnosed for a yeast infection. The doctor can give a prescription for and oral antifungal medication or a cream that is topically applied inside the vagina. If you are sure that you know the symptoms of a yeast infection then it is ok to use the over the counter medication.

Another thing you can try is an herbal supplement. Alterative Health Supplements offers a product called Bladder and Yeast Infection by Bell. It can be used to cure your bladder infection without having to take an antibiotic that will kill your good bacteria causing a yeast infection. It is also great used as a preventative for yeast and bladder infections. This product is all natural so it is perfectly safe to use. Take 2 capsules a day to treat and 1 everyday for a preventive. Some of the natural ingredients in this product are pumpkin seed, buchu leaf, and golden seal.