Your PCOS Diagnosis is Not a Life Sentence
30 Jun 2018
30 Jun 2018
So you have tried cutting out sugar, using gentle soap, wearing cotton underwear, taking probiotics….everything! But the yeast infections just keep coming! What else could it be?!?
It may be that your estrogen levels are too high and/or that you are suffering from suboptimal vaginal pH.
It has been found that higher than normal levels of estrogen may be associated with yeast overgrowth in the vagina—specifically, an infection with a particular yeast type called Candida albicans or “Candida”.
Research from Louisa State University Health Sciences Centers looked at the effects of estrogen on candida and concluded that, “Estrogen is the dominant reproductive hormone that supports and sustains an experimental vaginal Candida albicans infection and reduces the inhibitory activity of epithelial cells against Candida.”
So, what are some of the causes of high estrogen?
The normal pH of the vagina is between 3.8 and 4.5, which is slightly acidic. An elevated vaginal pH, a more neutral pH, allows yeast overgrowth.
Many women experience yeast infections on a monthly, cyclical basis, during or right after their period. Menstrual blood has a pH of 7.4, therefore the vaginal pH increases and allows for yeast to grow.
Vaginal douches, soaps, sprays, tampons, pads and lubricants also can alter the vaginal pH and bacterial flora. Be sure to look for feminine products that are labeled “fragrance free” and “pH balanced for the vagina.”
How can you measure your vaginal pH?
1. purchase a vaginal pH testing kit or roll of pH paper
2. hold a piece pH test paper against the wall of your vagina for a five seconds.
3. compare the colour of the strip to the colour guide on the pH paper package
4. choose the colour that your test result most closely resembles – this is your vaginal pH level.
Your naturopathic doctor will take a detailed history and go over your symptoms with you. Together, you and your ND, will then decide if you need any of the following therapies:
There is no need to keep suffering from uncomfortable yeast infections! Book an appointment with Dr. Kelsey Duncan, ND, today and start preventing these infections!
Effects of Reproductive Hormones on Experimental Vaginal Candidiasis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC97188/
Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-…
Image: Today Women’s Health. https://www.todaywomenhealth.com/en/how-to-test-vaginal-ph/
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30 Jun 2018
30 Jun 2018
30 Jun 2018