Genital Itching – Women’s Health Issues

By

David H. Barad

, MD, MS, Center for Human Reproduction

Reviewed/Revised May 2022 | Modified Sep 2022

VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION

GET THE QUICK FACTS

Genital itching may involve the vagina or the genital area (vulva), which contains the external genital organs. Itching is an unpleasant sensation that seems to require scratching for relief.

Many women occasionally have short episodes of genital itching that resolve without treatment. Itching is considered a problem only when it persists, is severe, recurs, or is accompanied by a discharge Vaginal Discharge A discharge from the vagina may occur normally or may result from inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis), often due to an infection. The genital area (vulva)—the area around the opening of the… read more .

The most common causes of genital itching include the following:

• Infections: Bacterial vaginosis Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition that occurs when the balance of bacteria in the vagina (vaginal microbiome) is altered. Bacterial vaginosis causes a thin, yellow-green or gray discharge… read more , candidiasis Vaginal Yeast Infection (Candidiasis) A vaginal yeast infection (also called candidiasis) is caused by an infectious organism called Candida, usually Candida albicans. A vaginal yeast infection may cause intense itching… read more (a yeast infection), and trichomoniasis Trichomonal Vaginitis Trichomonal vaginitis is a vaginal infection caused by the protozoa Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomonal vaginitis is usually sexually transmitted. It can cause a green or yellow discharge. .. read more (a protozoan infection)

• Irritation or allergic reactions: Chemicals that come in contact with the vagina or genital area, such as those in laundry detergents, bleaches, fabric softeners, synthetic fibers, bubble baths, soaps, feminine hygiene sprays, perfumes, menstrual pads, fabric dyes, toilet tissue, vaginal creams, douches, condoms, and contraceptive foams

• After menopause, thinning and drying of the lining of the vagina due to decreased estrogen levels

Less common causes include skin disorders such as psoriasis Psoriasis Psoriasis is a chronic, recurring disease that causes one or more raised, red patches that have silvery scales and a distinct border between the patch and normal skin. A problem with the immune… read more and lichen sclerosus Lichen Sclerosus Lichen sclerosus is a disorder that tends to cause itching and can cause scarring in the area around the anus and genitals. The cause of lichen sclerosis is unknown, but it may involve the immune. .. read more . Lichen sclerosus is characterized by thin white areas on the vulva around the opening of the vagina. If untreated, lichen sclerosus can cause scarring and may increase the risk of cancer of the vulva Vulvar Cancer Vulvar cancer usually develops in the labia, the tissue that surrounds the opening of the vagina. The cancer may appear to be a lump, an itchy area, or a sore that does not heal. A sample of… read more .

Doctors can usually determine the cause by asking about symptoms and by examining the genital area and vagina.

There are no warning signs for genital itching unless it is accompanied by pain and/or discharge that looks or smells abnormal. Then, the warning signs are the same as warning signs for pelvic pain Warning signs Pelvic pain is discomfort that occurs in the lowest part of the abdomen. Pain that occurs externally in the genital area (vulva, or labia) is called vulvar pain. Many women have pelvic pain… read more and/or warning signs for vaginal discharge Warning signs A discharge from the vagina may occur normally or may result from inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis), often due to an infection. The genital area (vulva)—the area around the opening of the… read more .

Women should see a doctor if itching lasts more than a few days or is severe or if other symptoms suggesting an infection (such as pain or discharge) develop.

Doctors first ask the woman questions about her symptoms, particularly whether she has any symptoms of infection, and about her medical history. She is also asked whether she uses any products that may irritate the area. Doctors then do a physical examination, which focuses on the pelvic examination Pelvic Examination For gynecologic care, a woman should choose a health care practitioner with whom she can comfortably discuss sensitive topics, such as sex, birth control, pregnancy, and problems related to… read more .

If women have a discharge, doctors use a cotton swab to take a sample of the discharge from the vagina or cervix. Doctors examine the sample under a microscope to check for the microorganisms that cause yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and Trichomonas vaginitis. They usually also send a sample to the laboratory to test for gonorrhea Diagnosis Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which infect the lining of the urethra, cervix, rectum, or throat, or the membranes that cover… read more and chlamydial infections Diagnosis Chlamydial infections include sexually transmitted infections of the urethra, cervix, and rectum that are caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. These bacteria can also infect… read more (which are sexually transmitted).

The condition causing genital itching is corrected or treated when possible. General measures can help relieve symptoms.

Changing underwear and bathing or showering once a day help keep the vagina and genital area clean and less likely to become irritated. More frequent bathing or showering may cause excessive dryness, which can increase itching. Using a cornstarch-based unscented body powder can help keep the genital area dry. Women should not use talc-based powders. Washing the area with plain warm water is recommended. But if soap is needed, a nonallergenic soap should be used. Other products (such as creams, feminine hygiene sprays, or douches) should not be applied to the vaginal area. These general measures may minimize exposure to irritants that cause itching.

If itching persists, a sitz bath may help. A sitz bath is taken in the sitting position with water covering only the genital and rectal area. Sitz baths can be taken in the bathtub filled with a little water or in a large basin.

If a medical product (such as a prescription cream) or a brand of condom appears to cause irritation and itching, it should not be used. Women should talk to their doctor before they stop using prescription products.

Applying a mild (low-strength) corticosteroid cream such as hydrocortisone to the genital area may provide temporary relief. The cream should not be put into the vagina and should be used for only a short period of time.

For severe itching, an antihistamine taken by mouth may help temporarily. Antihistamines also cause drowsiness and may be useful if symptoms interfere with sleep.

Vaginal infections that cause itching and discharge require antibiotics or antifungal drugs taken by mouth or inserted into the vagina.

Lichen sclerosus is treated with a cream or an ointment containing a high-strength corticosteroid (such as clobetasol), available by prescription.

• Genital itching is a problem only when it persists, is severe, recurs, or is accompanied by pain or by a discharge that looks or smells abnormal, suggesting an infection.

• Keeping the genital area clean and dry and not using products that can irritate it can help.

• Sometimes a mild corticosteroid cream relieves itching temporarily.

• If a vaginal infection causes itching and a discharge, women are treated with antibiotics or antifungal drugs taken by mouth or inserted into the vagina.

NOTE:


This is the Consumer Version.


DOCTORS:



VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION

VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION

Copyright © 2023 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

Test your knowledge

Take a Quiz!

How To Stop Itching Down There

There are few things more uncomfortable than developing an itch in your vagina. It’s not surprising that when it strikes, you likely rush to your phone to look up how to stop itching down there ASAP. This may not be all that comforting when you’re in the thick of it, but you’re hardly the only person who gets stuck with this problem.

“Vaginal itchiness is extremely common, but there’s a big difference between having a little itch and being up all night thinking you can’t stand this,” says Lauren Streicher, MD, an associate professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

The most common culprits are irritants such as bubble baths or fragranced soaps, yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, and hormonal changes due to lack of estrogen (often caused by lactation or menopause), according to Lyndsey Harper, MD, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Texas A&M College of Medicine and the CEO and founder of Rosy. “When estrogen is low, the bacterial makeup of the vagina changes and the skin becomes thinner and more easily irritated which can lead to varying degrees of discomfort and itching.”

In addition to infections (yeast or bacterial) or STIs, an allergy or skin condition might be to blame, and the vagina (the inside canal) and/or the vulva (everything on the outside) might be involved, adds Alyssa Dweck, MD, an ob-gyn based in Westchester County, New York.

So vaginal itchiness is rarely a sign of a serious underlying issue. But if it’s ongoing or you spot other concerning symptoms like blisters or a rash, you should get it checked out so you can get an accurate diagnosis and receive the appropriate treatment, notes Kyle Bukowski, MD, an ob-gyn and the chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood of Maryland.

But don’t worry, because if you’ve already checked-in with a healthcare provider and are just dealing with the occasional itchiness, there are plenty of doctor-approved home remedies that can successfully calm your itch.

Meet the experts: Lauren Streicher, MD, is an associate professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Lyndsey Harper, MD, is an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Texas A&M College of Medicine and the CEO and founder of Rosy. Alyssa Dweck, MD, is an ob-gyn based in Westchester County, New York. Kyle Bukowski, MD, is an ob-gyn and the chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood of Maryland.

1. Check your soap.

Your vulva is a sensitive area, and some soaps, especially ones that contain delicious-smelling fragrances, can make you itchy down there, says Jonathan Schaffir, MD, an ob-gyn at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

The Proper Ways To Clean Your Vagina And Vulva

• The Best Cleansers For Avoiding Vaginal Irritation
• The Ultimate Guide To Cleaning Your Vagina
• What Products Are Safe To Use On My Vagina?

Try switching to a hypoallergenic soap like Cetaphil and see where that gets you. “Sometimes just eliminating a particular product will make all the difference,” Dr. Streicher adds.

2. Rethink using pads.

Some women experience allergic reactions to their menstrual pads that can trigger a serious case of the itches. That’s because some pads contain perfumes that can be irritating, explains Dr. Schaffir. If you notice you get especially itchy around your period, stop using your go-to pads and opt for an unscented variety, or even organic versions of pads and tampons.

3. Use an over-the-counter cream, like Vagisil.

Vagisil Anti-Itch Multipack

Vagisil Anti-Itch Multipack

$12 at Amazon

Vagisil cream is designed to help fight vaginal itch and can soothe things down there, Dr. Schaffir says. It works by forming a protective barrier over your skin to make it feel better and save you from developing more irritation. Use this for any itchiness you suspect may be caused by antibiotics or discharge.

4. Apply Aquaphor.

If you’ve been itchy, it may also burn when you pee, so add a little Aquaphor to the area, clean with water after you go, and be gentle with the wiping, Dr. Streicher says. While petroleum jelly can make a yeast infection worse (if you have one), Aquaphor is more breathable for the skin while still creating a barrier down there, she says. Plus, it can be soothing.

5. Try a yeast infection cream.

A lot of women assume they have a yeast infection whenever they get a vaginal itch, but it’s not always the case, Dr. Streicher says. Still, if you’ve had a yeast infection before and you know that’s what you’re dealing with, an OTC yeast infection medication should help. Keep in mind that you can also get a yeast infection in your vulva—and there are creams for that too.

Monistat Miconazole Nitrate Vaginal Cream

Monistat Miconazole Nitrate Vaginal Cream

Now 29% Off

$14 at Amazon$14 at Walmart$15 at harmonfacevalues.com

Common symptoms of a yeast infection include a white, cottage cheese-like discharge, vaginal itchiness or irritation, and even pain during urination or sex, per Dr. Bukowski. And while you can start with an OTC antifungal cream for fast relief, you should see a doctor if symptoms persist for more than a few days so you can get prescription meds to clear it up.

“Because symptoms of a yeast infection overlap with those of some STIs and other infections like bacterial vaginosis, an accurate diagnosis is critical,” he says. “If symptoms do not improve, it’s important to visit a healthcare provider since misidentifying infections and treating them incorrectly can lead to persistent or recurrent infections. ”

Definitely see your doc if you’re unsure whether the symptoms you’re experiencing may be related to a yeast infection.

6. Take a sitz bath with lukewarm water.

A hot bath can provide more than a little relaxation when you’re dealing with itchiness down there. In case you’re not familiar, a sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that you sit in to relieve itching and irritation around your anus or vagina, per the Cleveland Clinic. Feel free to add plain Epsom salt or oatmeal bath such as Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment, Dr. Dweck says.

Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment

Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment

Now 33% Off

$14 at Amazon

Warm water can relax your muscles and improve circulation to ease pain and promote healing, while the added ingredients can calm skin irritation. A 2014 study published in Current Microbiology found that baking soda killed Candida cells (which are responsible for yeast infections, FYI), so consider adding some to your bath if you have a fungal infection.

Make sure to clean your bathtub first to remove any soap or cleaner residue, then fill up to two to three inches of warm water between 99 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Add ½ cup of baking soda and swirl the water until everything is dissolved before sitting in the water for 10 to 15 minutes. Afterward, you can dry the vagina area with a hair dryer on a cool low setting. Repeat a maximum of three times a day for best results, according to the University of Michigan Medicine.

7. Consider an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.

Hydrocortisone creams are often used for minor skin irritations, so they can be helpful for external vaginal itching as well. Just don’t insert these creams inside the vagina, as it can worsen inflammation since some products are specifically formulated for the vagina, notes Dr. Harper.

After all, hydrocortisone creams are meant to alleviate itchiness brought on by eczema and other skin conditions like insect bites and allergies, but you can use them around the pubic area if you’re feeling itchy due to razor burn after shaving, according to the Cleveland Clinic. That said, Dr. Harper suggests talking with your doctor before using hydrocortisone creams on the vulva and vagina.

8. Apply an ice pack or other cooling therapy.

Applying a cold treatment like an ice pack or over-the-counter cooling pad can provide relief down there, says Dr. Dweck. Just be sure to use them with a cloth barrier such as your underwear or a towel rather than applying directly to the skin, as you could further irritate it.

​

​​

9. Opt for cotton underwear.

Certain fabrics can lead to extra irritation and itching, so sticking with cotton panties may be your best bet, says Dr. Dweck. Better yet, opt for organic,she adds.

Related Story

• 13 Best Breathable Pairs Of Underwear, Per Ob-Gyns

10. Try an alternative hair-removal method.

If you shave your bikini area and notice that it’s always followed by itchiness, Dr. Dweck recommends considering other methods, such as laser hair removal, electrolysis, or waxing.

Related Story

• How To Shave Your Pubic Hair, According To Gynos

11. Pop a non-drowsy OTC antihistamine.

Medications like Benadryl are known to help relieve allergic reactions to the skin, so trying them for itch issues may prove to be helpful as well, says Dr. Dweck.

12. Moisturize the external area.

“From time to time, vaginal itching may be due to dry skin, so consider a hypoallergenic moisturizer without petrolatum, which may worsen the issue,” says Dr. Dweck.

13. Consider hormone therapy.

If all else fails, vaginal estrogen might do the trick if low estrogen is the issue, which can be the result of experiencing menopause, taking hormonal birth control, breastfeeding, or taking certain medications, explains Dr. Dweck. “You’ll need a prescription, so talk to your gyno if you want to consider this option.”

The bottom line: While these home remedies for vaginal itch can be a temporary solution, if you’re struggling with an itch that won’t quit, it’s time to see your doctor to get it checked out.

Korin Miller

Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.

Andi Breitowich

Andi Breitowich is a Chicago-based writer and graduate student at Northwestern Medill. She’s a mass consumer of social media and cares about women’s rights, holistic wellness, and non-stigmatizing reproductive care. As a former collegiate pole vaulter, she has a love for all things fitness and is currently obsessed with Peloton Tread workouts and hot yoga.  

90,000 Are yeast infections painful for dogs?

Contents

Itchy, irritated skin with a distinct odor may indicate a yeast infection, which is a common concern in dogs. A dog usually develops a fungal infection on the skin or in the ears. Regardless of location, a fungal infection can cause severe discomfort and may be a sign of a more serious problem.

How long does it take for a dog to recover from a yeast infection?

Many dogs with yeast dermatitis will also have a bacterial skin infection (pyoderma) and will need antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection for usually four to twelve weeks. Oral antifungals include ketoconazole, itraconazole, and fluconazole.

How can I soothe my dogs yeast infection?

Treatment for yeast infections on the skin may include topical antifungal creams, wipes, sprays, and shampoos. Topical ingredients that are effective in treating yeast include chlorhexidine, miconazole, and ketoconazole. In severe or severe cases, oral antifungals are used.

What happens if a yeast infection in dogs is not treated?

Also known as Malassezia dermatitis, yeast infections are commonly found in the ears, skin folds, and between the paw pads. Overgrown yeast can cause discomfort to your pet. For example, a fungal infection in the ear can cause deafness if left untreated.

How do I know if my dog ​​has a yeast infection?

Signs of a yeast infection in your dog

1. Skin redness or itching.
2. Sticky or yellow-green discharge.
3. Ulcers.
4. Oily wool.
5. Hair loss.
6. Stinky skin.
7. Skin thickening.
8. Skin with crusts and peeling.

What to feed a dog with a yeast infection?

Start feeding your dog supplements and foods that fight yeast infections. Since yeast is a fungus, you can kill it by giving your dog antifungal products. Look for dog food and treats containing caprylic acid, Pau D-Arco, and olive leaf. Pau D’Arco is rich in yeast-killing lapachol.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?

The fastest and surest way to get rid of a yeast infection is to see a doctor if you suspect you have one. They will likely prescribe fluconazole, an oral treatment that may take 1 week to clear the infection.

What naturally kills yeast in dogs?

There is only one truly scientifically backed home remedy for yeast infections. This remedy is as easy as white vinegar! White vinegar is most effective in treating Malassezia dermatitis in dogs, while apple cider vinegar is best for treating Candida albicans infections.

How often should a dog be bathed with thrush?

Wash your dog every 3-5 days for 2-12 weeks (or as directed by your veterinarian) for maximum effect. topical cream. If the infection is in a small area, you can apply an antifungal cream directly to the stain and cover it up.

Can Benadryl help with a yeast infection in dogs?

Oral treatments

Pets with yeast dermatitis often have a concurrent bacterial infection, so oral antibiotics are also given for about 4-12 weeks to kill the bacteria. Benadryl can also be used to relieve severe itching.

How did my dog ​​get a yeast infection?

Common causes of yeast infections in dogs are: Allergies. The most common cause of a yeast infection in dogs is an allergy to fleas, food, or substances in the environment. Allergies can irritate the skin and make it more oily. Some dogs can also develop an allergic reaction to the yeast itself.

What does a dog with a yeast infection smell like?

Fungal infections can cause severe itching. If your dog seems overly uncomfortable, yeast may be the culprit. If your dog has a yeast infection, you will likely smell it before you see it. People often describe this infection as a very musty or cheesy smell, like moldy bread or stale corn chips.

How long does it take for a fungal infection to clear up?

Mild yeast infections can clear up in as little as three days. Sometimes they don’t even require treatment. However, moderate to severe infections may take one to two weeks to heal.

Does yogurt help dogs with yeast infections?

Great Gut Probiotic

If that’s not enough, the probiotics found in yogurt can help your dog fight yeast infections that can lead to ear and skin problems. In addition, probiotics can help your dog’s body absorb nutrients and boost immunity.

Is chicken good for dogs with a yeast infection?

Chicken, Sweet Potato and Pumpkin Recipe that is rich in nutrients, easy to digest and helps fight fungal infections in dogs.

What are the serious symptoms of a yeast infection?

symptoms

• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva.
• Burning sensation, especially during intercourse or when urinating.
• Redness and swelling of the vulva.
• Vaginal pain and tenderness.
• Vaginal rash.
• Thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge, reminiscent of cottage cheese.
• Watery vaginal discharge.

Will a yeast infection go away on its own?

A mild vaginal yeast infection may go away without treatment. If you have mild symptoms, you may want to wait to see if this happens. If you’re not pregnant and you know your symptoms are caused by a yeast infection, you can treat it yourself with an over-the-counter antifungal medication.

Can water wash out a yeast infection?

Drink plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water dilutes the urine and urinates more often. This will help remove unwanted bacteria from the body.

Why does my dog ​​keep getting yeast infections on his skin?

We know that yeasts thrive in hot, humid environments and infections can occur if your pet’s immune system is weakened or if they are taking strong immunosuppressants. An increase in the amount of oils produced in the skin or an excess of skin oils can cause this condition.

Which shampoo kills yeast in dogs?

Some 4% chlorhexidine shampoos called ChlorhexiDerm Max, Sebahex, or Malaseb remove oil from the skin and kill yeast; however, other anti-yeast products include Selsun Blue, Miconazole Shampoo, Nizoral Shampoo, Douxo Shampoo, and more.

Miconazole (the active ingredient of Monistat) is a widely used topical antifungal agent. A small amount is safe to apply to your dog’s paws. Thoroughly clean and dry the paws before applying a small amount of Monistat between the toes.

How much does it cost to treat thrush in dogs?

Veterinary costs

Long-term antifungals can also be expensive. The monthly cost, depending on the size of the dog and the dose, can range from $150 to $750.

Why does my dog ​​smell rotten?

Dog Dental Problems

Some small breeds are particularly prone to dental problems such as gum disease. Another breed-specific problem is gingival hyperplasia, an overgrowth of gums that can contain small pieces of food and give off a putrid odor.

Does a yeast infection get worse before getting better?

The death of Candida can lead to a temporary worsening of the symptoms of a yeast infection or even cause new symptoms such as fever or abdominal pain. Treating viruses, bacteria, and fungi such as candida can cause temporary inflammation in the body.

Does baking soda help with fungal infections?

Baking soda baths can relieve symptoms of a yeast infection, such as itching. burning.

Do yeast infections smell?

There may be an odor, such as a strong fishy smell, especially after sex. Yeast infections cause thick, white vaginal discharge that may look like cottage cheese. The discharge may be watery and often odorless. Yeast infections usually cause itching and redness of the vagina and vulva.

How often can I pour apple cider vinegar on my dog?

You can also spray apple cider vinegar on your dog’s coat to make it shiny and prevent fleas or parasites. To do this, mix 2 cups of apple cider vinegar and 2 cups of water. Then pour this mixture into a spray bottle and spray your dog’s coat once a week.

What is your dog trying to warn about when he licks his paws?

As with other dog behaviors, there can be several reasons why dogs lick or chew their paws. These include injuries; skin problems; environmental, parasitic or food allergies; and boredom or restlessness.

Which dog food does not contain yeast?

Best Yeast Free Dog Food

Do yeast infections hurt more at night?

Itching of the vulva affects the vulva and can be irritating and annoying, especially at night. Although this symptom can occur at any time of the day, it may seem more pronounced at night because there are fewer distractions. This makes you wary of itching.

How do you treat an aggressive yeast infection?

If you have severe symptoms or frequent yeast infections, your doctor may recommend:

1. Long term vaginal therapy. Your doctor may prescribe antifungal medications taken daily for two weeks and then once a week for six months.
2. Multi-dose oral preparation.
3. Azol-resistant therapy.

What do yeast infection ulcers look like?

You can determine what you have by carefully examining the area. Sores from a yeast infection can look very similar to sores from other conditions, such as herpes. A fungal infection is usually accompanied by a rash and redness of the skin. These ulcers can appear anywhere.

Are yeast infections painful?

Most yeast infections cause itching, burning and/or redness in or around the vagina. Vaginal itching usually gets worse the longer you have the infection. Sex may be uncomfortable or painful. In extreme cases, you may get cracks or sores on your vagina or vulva.

Will a warm bath help with thrush?

As a general rule, when you are treating a yeast infection, a shower is better than a bath. If you are taking a sitz bath with Epsom salts, apple cider vinegar, boric acid, or any other home remedy while treating a yeast infection, do not take the soak for more than 10 minutes at a time.

How do you know a yeast infection is healing?

First, you will notice that the vaginal discharge has returned to its normal consistency and odor. Secondly, you will notice that the itching has gone away, which has greatly eased the discomfort associated with the infection. Thirdly, you will notice that all rash, swelling or redness has disappeared.

What foods treat yeast infection?

Yoghurt with live bacterial cultures. Fermented foods such as kimchi, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and pickles. Supplements containing lactobacilli or acidophils.

Can I give Vagisil to my dog?

Is your dog already experiencing irritation, burning and itching? Some people use Vagisil, but it only reduces symptoms, while the active ingredient Monistat (Miconazole) can actually stop the infection from growing.

Although commonly used by women, Monistat’s active ingredient is also safe for dogs. When used properly, you can often get rid of a yeast infection from your dog’s ears with this topical cream.

How do veterinarians treat yeast infections in dogs?

Your veterinarian may prescribe an oral antifungal medicine. However, topical treatments such as prescription yeast cream, lotion, shampoo, and wipes are also effective. If your dog has a yeast infection on its paws, medicated wipes or lotion may be effective.

How long should my dog ​​take fluconazole?

Fluconazole for dogs is usually given in tablet or liquid form once a day by mouth, with or without food, for the duration prescribed by your veterinarian. This medicine is often prescribed for several weeks or months.

How do I treat a yeast infection in my dog’s groin?

If your veterinarian has diagnosed a yeast infection, special shampoo baths can help prevent it from spreading. She recommends bathing your dog regularly using an herbal or antifungal dog shampoo, such as tea tree oil shampoo, and cleaning the affected areas well.

Yeast infection 26 natural antidotes

Candida albicans is a yeast that naturally grows harmlessly in a woman’s vagina and in the intestines of both men and women.

“They are natural flora and live there just like microbes live in the mouth,” says Dr. Michael Spence, an OB/GYN in Philadelphia. “If there is an imbalance or ecological imbalance in these areas after antibiotic use, or if you have diabetes, for example, then you have more yeast and an infection.”

Other triggers for yeast infections include pregnancy, use of birth control pills, menopausal hormones, douching with chemicals, spermicides, cracks in the vaginal wall from tampons, insufficient lubrication during intercourse or intercourse by someone, having a yeast infection.

When you develop a yeast infection, your doctor will confirm it by examining a small amount of secretions under a microscope.

room He then prescribes a drug that kills excess yeast in the vagina.

Sounds simple, but women who have a yeast infection know it’s not. Yeast that causes itching, burning, foul odor and white curdled discharge tends to come back. Some people are prone to yeast infections.

Marjorie Krendell, a fungus specialist in California, understands why women will try to get rid of discomfort by any means. For 20 years, she battled a chronic yeast infection that made her life miserable. Now she is free from it.

Here are the tips she and others recommend for those who are concerned about a yeast infection.

Sleep like Eve. “Yeasts thrive in warm, humid atmospheres,” says Dr. Spence, “so one of the best

A preventive measure that can be taken against this fungus is to ventilate the vagina, that is, keep it cool and dry. Sleep naked or stay in your nightgown, no knickers when you go to bed, and give your body 8 hours of total freedom.”

Wear loose clothing. “During the day, avoid tight-fitting or fiber clothing that doesn’t provide good ventilation, such as polyethylene, polyester, and leather,” says Dr. Spence. – Reduce the number of layers of clothing: do not wear underpants under leggings and under tight jeans. When you get home, remove excess clothing such as tights and let your body breathe. Wear skirts whenever you can.”

Don’t powder. “Starch is a great medium for fungal growth,” says Dr. Spence. “Because most post-bath powders are starch-based, you’re promoting infection when you use powder. Keep powder away from your pantaloons.”

Use commercially available medicines. There are a few places on the body that you can’t scratch (at least in public), and this is one of them. While prescription drugs are aimed at removing fungus, you can relieve itching with over-the-counter medications such as Benadryl or C’ortaid. Or apply hydro-corgizone cream around the vulva and vaginal opening to relieve itching. Just be careful not to use these creams before visiting the doctor, as they can cover up the infection and interfere with the correct diagnosis.

Use natural lubricants. “Mineral oil, Vaseline jelly, egg white, and plain yogurt are excellent lubes during intercourse,” Dr. Grendell says, “because they don’t cause chemical irritation unless you’re allergic to them. (Do not use vaseline jelly with a condom as it will puncture the rubber.) Do not use baby oil as it contains perfumes that can cause irritation.”

Avoid chemicals. A surefire way to make an already delicate situation worse is to add chemicals to your smoldering yeast infection. Avoid douches, contraceptive jellies, foaming agents and aerosols, yeast-killing pills, deodorants for women.

Prepare yourself medicinal baths. The only alternative to douching is a sitz bath. Fill the tub (up to your thighs only) with warm water, then do one of two things:

• add salt (about 1/2 cup is enough to make the water taste salty) to bring the body’s salt balance close to natural;
• add vinegar (1/2 cup) to help bring the pH of the vaginal medium to 4. 5.

Now sit in the tub with your knees apart until the water cools. Clean the tub properly.

Replace the spermicides. “Spermicides (contraceptive drugs that kill sperm) are also chemicals that should not be allowed into the vagina, especially if you are prone to infection. If you plan to use them during intercourse, put the spermicide inside a reservoir on top of the condom, where it can do what it’s supposed to do,” says Dr. Krendell.

Lack of odors is a good idea. Choose odorless items for personal use. Perfumes and deodorants that are soaked in tampons or sanitary napkins can be irritating and contribute to another flare-up of vaginitis.

Wash yourself with water. Soap, shampoo, bath salts and oils remove the natural oils that protect your skin and can cause irritation. When you take a shower, rinse the genitals with a jet of plain water, it is good to use a shower with a flexible hand hose to direct the jet of water.

Switch to cotton. Choose cotton underpants because they absorb moisture from the skin. The nylon will keep the heat and moisture in, which will increase yeast growth. If you prefer the touch of nylon to the skin, choose briefs with an insert from. cotton. If your briefs don’t have a cotton insert, mini sanitary napkins can be a good substitute.

Always wear pantyhose with a cotton insert to allow air to pass through and cool and dry your vagina. And remember: do not wear pantaloons with tights! The fewer layers of clothing you wear, the better the ventilation.

Use non-colored toilet paper. Paint is another chemical with potential irritant properties. Dr. Krendell suggests that you avoid unnecessary irritation by using plain white, unscented toilet paper.

Use toilet paper correctly. After a bowel movement, wipe from front to back. Before touching the vagina, wash everything that has been in contact with the anus.

Wash before sexual intercourse. If you and your partner are so clean that you “squeak”, then you are less likely to transfer fox pathogens into the vagina. Wash your hands and genitals before having sexual intercourse.

Rinse with water only. The vagina is a self-cleansing organ, but some women feel they need to be pampered. If you do, Dr. Krendell recommends using a cool water rinse, and not often, as it’s an irritating procedure.

Do not douche during menstruation when the cervix is ​​open: the upward flow of water can bring infection into ml Iku. Also, never douche during pregnancy unless your washerman instructs you to do so.

Douche with vinegar. Vinegar has approximately the same keel as the vagina, for this reason a lukewarm mixture of vinegar and water (4 tablespoons of vinegar per 0.5 liters of water) can be used as a douche liquid. Some doctors ‘tinyut that with the right acid-base balance in shalita, yeast overgrowth is less likely.

And “run sex when you have vaginitis. “In inflammation caused by a yeast infection, sexual intercourse can cause more hgt; p. neck irritation. In addition, yeast can pass to your uipmepy, which can later re-infect you,” says tp Krendell.

c

Urinate before and after. “Men and women should bathe and urinate before and after sex to flush out pathogens from the urethra and avoid bladder infections,” says Dr. Krendell.

Use a condom. An unslick, unmoistened condom will be less irritating. It will also protect partners from transferring yeast to each other.

Do not overeat yeast products. Women with a recurrent yeast infection may develop an allergy to food containing yeast and mold. Avoid consumption of foods and drinks such as bread, donuts, beer, wine, vinegar, pickles, fermented foods, cheeses, mushrooms, and fruit juices.

Control your blood sugar. Yeast grows well on sugar, according to California researchers. A yeast infection is favored by the consumption of large amounts of sugar. This is a great food for yeast. People with diabetes due to a tendency to yeast infection should control their blood sugar levels. Excess lactose in dairy products and artificial sweeteners also increases the chance of developing a yeast infection.