Yeast Infections

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I don't know why, but I was never informed about how to differentiate between yeast infections and discharge / ovulation. I believe my mother found out that I had an infection after she decided one day last year to mention that she herself had one and that it has the texture of cottage cheese.

So, I bought some cream in late December. The infection disappeared. Now the infection seems to have re-emerged. I found out after pulling out my Diva Cup and finding it coated with cottage cheese.

Anyone have experience handling these pesky infections? Tips are appreciated.

I don't think I have ever had one - but I have read that sugar can be a big culprit.

yeast infections are totally normal and most women get them at some point in their lives. yeast cells are naturally occurring in the vagina, mouth, and digestive tract, and it only becomes a problem when they get out of control and take over these systems.
if you suspect a yeast overpopulation i think the best thing is to combat it naturally first and see if you can keep balance without resorting to more drastic measures like creams and anti-fungals. these things can make you dependent on harsher methods that may not be necessary.

if you notice some funky discharge
1. wear cotton panties only and give yourself panty-free time as well. tight, synthetic fabrics can further irritate the area and cause more discomfort, and leaving them on for a long amount of time creates a dark, wet space that yeast loves.
2. cut back on your sugar intake and eat plenty of foods with probiotics (good bacteria which help digestion and keep bad bacteria and fungus in balance). yogurt, kefir, kombucha...
3. don't shave or wash your pubic area with any type of soap or feminine wash. water only.
4. try to refrain from vaginal sexual activities until it clears up. also, do not use spit as lubrication.
5. do not take or use antibacterial products unless you have a bacterial issue which surpasses the severity of the fungal issue. antibacterials kill all bacteria indiscriminately, which gives the yeast the opportunity to take over your system.
6. if the yeast infection doesn't go away within a few weeks, if the symptoms are unmanageable, or if the infection is reoccurring, then i would suggest seeing an obgyn or health professional who has experience with female health care.

We give Diflucan (a prescription) at the hospital because yeast infections happen quite frequently when women are on certain antibiotics. There are some OTC creams you can try too. Just ask the pharmacist and they can direct you on which would be the best one for your situation.

Some of the tips already mentioned have worked for me like cutting down on sugar, (keep in mind that you could be consuming a lot of sugar in drinks like soda and fruit juice) and having panty free time. I wear nightgowns instead of pj's so things can air out down there. Are we allowed to mention products here? I have no affiliation with this product but it is called Yeast Defense, it's a supplement in capsule form. I get it at drugstore.com you can probably find it at health food stores and other places. As always, the disclaimer, check with your doc before starting any new supplement. It's fun being a woman! NOT! I can say though that I love menopause!