An expert warns that treating a yeast infection with apple cider vinegar is not only dangerous, but it could also do more damage.
While apple cider vinegar is popularly perceived as being a great remedy for a host of issues like dandruff and allergies, treating yeast infections with it is not a good solution. Many beauty bloggers recommend taking apple cider vinegar bath or soaking a tampon in apple cider vinegar to treat the condition. However, this could be harmful methods to try. “There is little evidence related to the efficacy of apple cider vinegar to treat yeast infections, and the studies that are out there are not robust,” Jennifer Linhorst, MD, an OB/GYN practising in Denver (US), told a news portal.
While Linhorst notes that there is nothing wrong with trying alternative medicine and natural remedies, one needs to take precaution with how it is being used. "When it comes to apple cider vinegar, if one wants to try it out, I would recommend restricting its use to the oral route. I would not recommend actually putting vinegar in or near the vagina," Linhorst told a news portal. She recommends diluting apple cider vinegar if you take it orally. As the acid in it can damage your teeth and mouth.
However, using it to treat yeast infection topically may make the symptoms worse and cause further irritation because it is acidic. "While for the vast majority of people, this is not going to pose a health risk, anyone who has ever had some form of vulvovaginitis (aka inflammation of the vulva and vagina) can tell you that quality of life is diminished substantially for the duration of symptoms,” Linhorst told a news portal.
Another point Linhorst makes is that sometimes what women may perceive as being a yeast infection may not actually be a yeast infection. "There is some evidence that women are not actually that great at diagnosing what is causing the irritation down there," Linhorst told a news portal.
One study found that only 33.7% of self-diagnosed yeast infections by female participants were right about having the condition. Some women tend to mistake other health issues like a rash,bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections and decreased estrogen during menopause for a yeast infection. “Each of these conditions is treated very differently and proper treatment relies on a proper diagnosis,” Linhorst told a news portal. The best way to know for sure what you have is by consulting with a professional so you can take the right treatment.
There are also ways you can take precaution to protect yourself against these kinds of health issues. For one, avoid scented tampons. You should also shower immediately after a workout. You should also opt for breathable clothes especially in the summer. Take precaution when choosing feminine hygiene products.
