When most people, namely women get a yeast infection, they are pretty confident that is what they have because they have learned to recognize the symptoms. The first call of duty is usually to head to the drug store and buy a combination of creams and suppositories. These treatments might work, but if they do, most of the time the relief is only temporary. In my experience, there are natural ways to combat a yeast infection that will take care of it once and for all.

Plain yogurt is full of good bacteria which help to fight yeast. Plain yogurt can be used internally as well as externally for a yeast infection. Make sure that you are only using plain and unsweetened yogurt because sugar will breed bacteria and make things much, much worse. If you decide to use the plain yogurt internally, simply dip a tampon into the yogurt and insert it or you can just apply it by rubbing it around the outside. Don't leave it on for too long because it will then have the opposite effect.

Yeast absolutely hates garlic! Again garlic can be used internally or externally too. You can take garlic tablets which will work fine or you can take a peeled clove of garlic and insert in into the vagina for immediate relief. If you are a brave garlic lover, then press a whole clove of garlic and drink it down with some water. This is probably the most effective way to go about using garlic for yeast infections.

Apple cider vinegar works well for relieving the itch affiliated with a yeast infection if you apply it to your bath water. Oil of oregano is also very potent against yeast. This should be taken orally daily and according to the directions on the package. Water works well too, especially for preventative measures. The water causes more frequent urination which will reduce your chances of getting a yeast infection. Why? The more water you drink, the more you will urinate, and therefore you will flush the sugars that feed the yeast out. The great thing about water is that it is natural and easily accessible.

I don't know about you, but I'd rather not run to the drugstore to spend money on expensive products that only provide temporary relief. I'd rather learn how to keep yeast levels at the proper levels naturally, so I don't have to deal with the infections at all.