Naturopathic Chronic Yeast Infection Treatment

Estrogen keeps the healthy bacteria and pH in the vaginal area balanced. When estrogen starts to fluctuate in perimenopause and eventually drops in menopause, the vaginal flora and pH shift. This change makes it much easier for yeast to thrive, leading to an overgrowth of yeast, also known as a yeast infection.

Another component to chronic yeast infections in menopause is the increased likelihood of urinary incontinence. The decline of estrogen also affects the perineum and muscles that control urination, making it more likely for women to have some urinary leaking. This leaking sets up an environment that yeast can thrive in.

Taking repeated doses of oral or vaginal antifungals is not an actual “treatment” for chronic yeast infections in perimenopause and menopause. They’re often used to address the immediate symptoms and prevent a worsening infection, but they won’t prevent future infections.

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a collection of changes, symptoms, and resulting infections that develop in menopause due to changes in the vulvovaginal area. Recurrent yeast infections are part of GSM and therefore require attention to the changes that are occurring in the vaginal area because of low estrogen to actually treat the cause.

Chronic yeast infections and other GSM symptoms and conditions can be debilitating, but they don’t need to be. If you are struggling with recurrent yeast infections, vaginal dryness or other GSM symptoms, schedule a visit with Dr. Hamilton to get solutions. Dr. Hamilton offers virtual visits to all Oregon and Washington residents and in-person visits in Portland, OR.

The perimenopause and menopause transition is a journey. It doesn’t need to be a painful one.