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How To Deal With A Bad Case Of Yeast Infection With Apple Cider Vinegar
The moment signs of a vaginal yeast infection make themselves known – the itch you discreetly get at by squirming in your seat, the gates of hell suddenly relocating to between your legs, and the clumpy discharge – nothing else matters… other than getting rid of it.
The Internet seems to think a possible hero might be the trendiest new cure-all: Apple cider vinegar. I mean, it seems capable of promoting everything from smooth skin to healthy hair… so why not?
How do I know I have a yeast infection?
A yeast infection, or candidiasis, is caused by a fungus called Candida and it loves dark, wet spaces like mouths, throats and (you guessed it) vaginas. It’s totally harmless until it multiplies – that’s when trouble starts, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
If the material of your underwear doesn’t allow for breathability (cotton’s always a good choice; silk, not so much), or if you’re taking an antibiotic that can kill bacteria that normally protects the vagina, for example, Candida might multiply, leaving you infected.
Yeast infections come with a side of symptoms that include the very common itching, as well as burning, redness, swelling, pain during sex, pain while peeing, soreness and thick discharge, according to the Office on Women’s Health (OWH).
While they’re uncomfortable, yeast infections are super common. OWH indicates three out of four women will have a yeast infection at least once in their lives.
Read more: 6 yeast infection symptoms in women that shouldn’t be ignored
Some people seem to think so. Internet theories promoting direct application of diluted vinegar, including douching with it and inserting a vinegar-soaked tampon are floating around out there just begging for investigation.
The verdict: You should not be doing any of this.