6 Home Remedies for Yeast Infections, According to Doctors
Everyone Should Eat More Cottage Cheese
For whatever reason, cottage cheese has an especially maligned reputation among dairy products. It frequently pops up on scientifically dubious surveys gauging people's most hated foods, listed among other polarizing edibles like anchovies and liver. But that designation feels especially outdated in 2024. Last year was a big year for cottage cheese, thanks in large part to TikTok food creators who used it for everything from cookie dough to a mustard-spiked dip, and I couldn't be more thrilled.
To be clear, I was once a cottage cheese hater. I blame it on my years of dieting, a time when I could somehow convince myself that a combination of gloopy fat-free cottage cheese and zero-sugar fruit jam could convincingly replace a decadent dessert. But a couple of years ago, while browsing a random Pinterest board, I stumbled across the idea that cottage cheese could actually be eaten with savory ingredients. I was a little repulsed at first, but something about the salty tang of cottage cheese paired with melted cherry tomatoes and fresh basil just seemed like a pairing that could work. I grabbed a tub of generic, full-fat cottage cheese from the grocery store, piled the soft tomatoes on top, and the rest is history.
Cottage cheese is now a regular part of my breakfast and snack rotation. It's impossibly easy, making it perfect for days when I don't have any interest in cooking eggs and toast in the morning. Most of the time, I don't go to all the trouble to roast tomatoes and chop basil; I simply sprinkle some lemon pepper on top and give the bowl a good stir. A good hot sauce, like Crystal or Tapatio, is also an excellent, low-effort option. I have come around somewhat to the idea of eating cottage cheese with sweet accouterments, especially a few wedges of fresh peach and a drizzle of Mike's Hot Honey, which sort of scratches that sweet-savory itch.
In my new life as a cottage cheese enthusiast, I have learned that which brand you buy is crucially important. Some of this comes down to personal preference — whether you prefer large curd or small, what fat content you're looking for — but some brands are unequivocally better than others. It's likely that your best source for super-fresh cottage cheese is a dairy purveyor at your local farmer's market, but there's plenty of good cottage cheese at the grocery store. My preferred, widely available brand is Good Cultures, which is made with only a few ingredients (salt, milk, cultures) and boasts a decadently creamy texture. Vermont's Cabot Creamery also makes excellent cottage cheese, and there's even a vegan cottage cheese in the works from the wonderful Miyoko's Creamery. The only brand that I cannot recommend under any circumstances is Daisy — the curds in its cottage cheese are tiny, identical cubes, resulting in a less than desirable texture.
Speaking of texture, the lumpy consistency of cottage cheese is also a common complaint among its haters, but there's an easy way to solve that problem: just put it in the blender. After a couple pulses, cottage cheese becomes seriously thick and creamy, making it perfect for eating on its own or stirring into dips and soups. It is weirdly good when added to pancake batter, too — the milky, slightly tangy flavor makes it a solid substitute for buttermilk.
Whether you decide to blend it or spatter it with hot sauce or serve it with fruit, it's time for cottage cheese to reclaim its rightful place at the breakfast table. Cottage cheese is perhaps the only dairy preparation that inspires this level of both devotion and revulsion, which is probably why I'm not the first person to demand a reappraisal of cottage cheese. But in this era in which there's a trendy new food to try every single day, it's always good to have a reminder that cottage cheese will always be chilling humbly in the dairy case, waiting for us to realize that it's great — again.
Sign up for the Sign up for Eater's newsletter The freshest news from the food world every dayI Tried 6 Brands Of Cottage Cheese To Find The Best One To Buy Right Now
6. Organic Valley Organic Valley was the most expensive cottage cheese I tried. Meredith Schneider
Organic Valley had my least favorite cottage cheese.
First of all, it was the most expensive purchase. I found a 16-ounce tub of 2% cottage cheese for $7 that was on sale for $6.29. But even with the discount, that's $0.40 an ounce.
For what Organic Valley promises, I thought the price could be worth it. It's USDA-certified organic, and each ½ cup serving contains 15 grams of protein and 3 grams of sugar.
But the curd size was all over the place, and I found it unappetizingly firm. To me, it was also the most bitter-tasting of the bunch.
Because it was moisture-heavy, I found it difficult to spoon out. My serving kind of sat in a pool of its own liquid.
5. Daisy Daisy's cottage cheese tasted very sweet. Meredith Schneider
Although I didn't know it until today, sweet cottage cheese is not my favorite. Unfortunately, Daisy's 2%, extra creamy, small-curd cottage cheese was the sweetest.
It still had its fair share of protein at 13 grams a serving, and it only cost me $4 for 24 ounces, or $0.17 an ounce. It's also made from three identifiable ingredients, which I like.
But it contains 4 grams of sugar, and I thought it tasted slightly more dessert-worthy than the others.
4. 365 365 had a nice, mid-level cottage cheese. Meredith Schneider
Whole Foods' store brand, 365, proudly displays the USDA-organic badge of approval on the carton. I bought a 16-ounce container of the low-fat, small-curd option for $4, or $0.25 an ounce.
It's made with 1.5% milk fat and has 13 grams of protein and 4 grams of sugar.
As far as texture goes, the curds seemed more spaced out and slippery because of the moisture content.
But the cottage cheese didn't taste overly sweet, and it also didn't have a bitter aftertaste. I paired it with a pear, and I found it to have the perfect balanced flavor.
3. Good Culture Good Culture was also a pricier brand of cottage cheese. Meredith Schneider
Good Culture's organic, low-fat, 2% cottage cheese was thick and creamy, as the label promised.
I found a 16-ounce container for $6, so at $0.38 an ounce, it was one of the more expensive options.
But it's made of five identifiable ingredients, contains 3 grams of sugar, and packs 14 grams of protein per serving.
The cottage cheese tasted a little tangy to me — almost like the Greek yogurt equivalent of cottage cheese. But I thought it would be particularly good for dipping chips or fruit for a high-protein snack.
The thick texture allows it to sit firmly. Next time, I'd try this on a bagel or even in crab rangoon as a slightly healthier alternative to cream cheese.
2. Friendly Farms I usually buy Aldi's Friendly Farms cottage cheese. Meredith Schneider
Aldi's Friendly Farms cottage cheese is my go-to, simply for my budget's sake. It's made with 1% milk fat (great for a sensitive stomach), has 12 grams of protein, and is only $2.40 for 24 ounces, or $0.10 an ounce.
It came out of the container a little more rigid than the other options, but it wasn't unappealing.
For me, the drawbacks are that it's made with over 12 ingredients (I think the simpler, the better) and that it has 5 grams of sugar.
But I thought it tasted a little less sweet than Daisy, making it great for breakfast bowls or smoothies.
I could see this choice being especially good for families trying to please a wide range of palates.
1. Trader Joe's I was blown away by Trader Joe's cottage cheese. Meredith Schneider
Trader Joe's only carries its store-brand cottage cheese in a few different curd sizes and milk-fat percentages, so it gets a star for making the decision-making process a little simpler.
It gets another star for its price. I bought a 16-ounce tub of small-curd, 1.5% cottage cheese for $3, or $0.19 an ounce. There was also a 24-ounce option for $4.
The product has 4 grams of sugar and 13 grams of protein, and much like Good Culture, it had a thicker consistency without being whipped. I've always been a fan of the texture of cottage cheese, and this one delivered.
I thought the flavor was more cheese-like than the others. But I think you can dress it up or down for different recipes.
Overall, it was my favorite of the six cottage cheeses I tried.
The 5 Best At-home Yeast Infection Tests Of 2024
An estimated 75% of women will experience at least one yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis (CV) in their lifetime, and nearly half will experience two or more infections. To make matters worse, yeast infections can be hard to distinguish from other vaginal conditions and sexually transmitted diseases, most notably bacterial vaginosis (BV) and trichomonas vaginalis (TV), as all three are a type of vaginitis (the clinical word for inflammation of the vagina) and can cause similar symptoms, such as vaginal pain, burning, itching and redness. However, when it comes to treatment, there are distinct differences between the three conditions which require different treatment plans, so it's important to determine which condition you have.
Quick Overview
While it's always best to see a health care provider if you have any type of unusual vaginal discharge, irritation or pain, another option for confirming CV is by using an at-home yeast infection test. These tests are designed to allow you to get a full understanding of your vaginal health via lab processing or to quickly find out if your pH levels are off.
To help you find the best at-home yeast infection test for your needs, we spoke with our panel of medical experts to learn about the various self-administered yeast infection tests on the market. Our team then researched more than 20 different home-based yeast infection and pH tests and rated each based on accuracy, virtual medical support offered, including prescribing doctors on staff, ease of use, the wait time should your sample need to be mailed and processed by a lab and the test kit's price point. Here are the best at-home yeast infection tests for 2024, according to our researchers and experts.
LetsGetChecked
Cost: $199Time to results: 2-5 daysDoctor consultation available: YesAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: YesFree shipping: Yes
LetsGetChecked Vaginitis Test not only tests for a yeast infection but also screens for BV and TV, so there will be no question about which form of vaginitis you are suffering from. The testing process requires a simple vaginal swab that you send to a CLIA- and CAP-certified lab for processing with the enclosed prepaid shipping materials. A major benefit of lab testing is knowing you can trust the results and have medical support if needed. Should you test positive for any of the screened conditions, you can also get the treatment you need by scheduling a virtual consultation with a LetsGetChecked health care provider for an additional $39 fee.
One downside is that LetsGetChecked cannot prescribe medication to residents of Arizona, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina or West Virginia. If you live in one of these states and would need medical support due to being underinsured, this might not be the test for you.
Pros
DIAGNOX HEALTH
Cost: $12 - $17Time for results: 30 secondsDoctor consultation available: NoAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: YesFree shipping: Depends on where it's purchased
The Vaginox test kit doesn't specifically detect the presence of yeast – instead, it measures vaginal pH levels. Normal vaginal pH ranges from 3.8 to 4.5, so the test can be helpful in determining whether or not you have a yeast infection or something more serious like BV or trich. Here's a quick summary of vaginal pH levels:
Yeast infection – typically within the normal range of 4.0 – 4.5
Bacterial vaginosis – typically greater than 4.5
Trichomoniasis – typically 5.0 – 6.5 or higher
It's important to note that since vaginal pH levels are normal with a yeast infection, this test is best for those who want a quick way to rule out BV or trich. To use the Vaginox kit, you'll simply take a swab of your vagina and then apply the sample to the test strip. After 30 seconds, a color will appear on the test strip. You'll then use the color chart to interpret your results.
Most vaginal pH strips work in the same way, but what really sets Vaginox apart is that its test strips are individually wrapped, which is usually not the case with pH strips; the sterile strips mean results are more accurate, and tests have a longer shelf life. What's more, the tests are eligible for FSA and HSA payment.
ProsDaye
Cost: $125 - $180Time for results: 5-10 daysDoctor consultation available: Yes, for additional feeAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: NoFree shipping: Yes
Daye, a female-founded gynecological health startup, best known for creating the first CBD tampon, has also developed a vaginal microbiome test that will not only let you know if you have a yeast infection, BV or TV, but it will also give you a full picture of your vaginal health. If the words "vaginal microbiome" are new to you, in short, your vaginal microbiome is an ecosystem made up of bacteria, yeasts, and other microorganisms. When your microbiome is off, it becomes vulnerable to infections and other gynecological health complications. Daye's screening is designed to analyze the microbes in your sample to detect conditions like yeast infections or BV and ultimately gain a full picture of your overall vaginal health. The test can even tell if you are susceptible to UTIs or if you have the microbes that make it more difficult to conceive.
The test is super easy since it essentially uses a tampon to gain your test sample. Each kit comes with two diagnostic tampons — one to send to the lab for screening and one to keep as a backup, just in case there is any error in the sample taken on your first test. The test alone is $125, but for an additional $55, you'll get a 30-minute live consultation with a health expert. If your test is positive, you can opt to meet with a medical expert and receive treatment for an additional fee if your state allows it.
ProsMyLab Box
Cost: $189Time for results: 2-5 daysDoctor consultation available: YesAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: YesFree shipping: Yes
The MyLab Box V-Box 5 Panel At Home Vaginal Health Test not only comes with a free medical consultation should you test positive, but tests for four other major vaginal health issues in addition to yeast infections: BV, TV, and the STI's chlamydia and gonorrhea. Taking the test is as simple as taking one vaginal swab that you will mail to a CAP- and CLIA-certified lab with the enclosed shipping materials, and you'll receive your results electronically within two to five days of lab receipt. If your test is positive for any of the five conditions, you can schedule a free doctor consultation to determine whether or not treatment is needed; prescriptions will be sent to a pharmacy of your choice.
Note: This test is not available for purchase in New York.
ProsStix
Cost: $24-$28Time for results: 2 minutesDoctor consultation available: NoAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: YesFree shipping: No
Unfortunately, for some people, yeast infections are a regular occurrence. Stix makes it easy and convenient for those who are all too familiar with having a yeast infection to both test and treat the infection with its all-in-one Yeast Infection Test & Treat Kit. The kit includes two pH tests, a three-day yeast infection treatment kit and liners to help prevent staining. You'll first use the pH test to verify if you have a yeast infection — you'll only need to wait two minutes for the results — then, if positive, you can immediately start treatment. There are even 20 panty liners included to help prevent stains from both the infection and treatment.
We also like that there is a subscribe and save option that allows those with regular infections to keep the tests and treatments coming at regular intervals for the relatively affordable price of $24. While the shipping is not free, the kits come in discreet packaging and can be purchased with FSA or HSA funds.
ProsThere are two different types of at-home yeast infection tests: 100% at-home vaginal pH tests and lab-based tests where you take the sample in the privacy of your home rather than a doctor's office, then ship the sample to a predetermined lab using the shipping materials included with the testing kit.
Vaginal pH tests are done entirely at home and provider results are ready in a matter of minutes. These tests measure your vaginal pH levels to help determine whether or not you have an infection. Different infections are associated with different pH levels: with a yeast infection, in addition to having the usual symptoms of burning, itching and discomfort, you'll typically have a normal pH. With BV and trich, your pH level will typically be much higher so you can get a quick answer using a process of elimination.
Lab-based tests, on the other hand, are much more accurate, says Dr. Madeline Stark, an ob-gyn based in Chicago. With these tests, only the sample collection is done at home. The testing process is done in a lab using nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), which can detect the presence of yeast.
How we chose the best at-home yeast infection testTo find the best at-home yeast infection test available, our team researched more than 20 different options and compared them based on cost, ease of use, and accuracy with the help of medical experts. The medical experts we consulted included obstetrician-gynecologists (OB/GYN) and reproductive endocrinologists, among other healthcare professionals who specialize in female sexual and reproductive health.
How to choose the best at-home yeast infection test for your needsWhen choosing the right yeast infection test for you, consider the following factors:
Type of test: When it comes to hat home yeast infections tests, you have the option of either a vaginal pH test (a cheaper option) with on-the-spot results or a lab test for a more accurate, in-depth screening. If you opt for a lab test, also consider what is being tested. Some tests – like the ones from Daye – look at your entire vaginal microbiome and can give you a more detailed understanding of your vaginal health. There are also tests that combine yeast infection and STD screenings. Such as the test from MyLab Box.
Accuracy: Lab tests are going to be more accurate than vaginal pH strips. If you do choose a lab-based test, make sure to go with a reputable company that uses CAP- and CLIA-certified labs for the most accurate results.
Time until results: Lab tests can take anywhere between 2 and 10 days for results, so if you need something sooner, vaginal pH tests will give you results instantly.
Medical support: Many lab-based tests offer doctor consultations and treatment options for positive results. With some, consultations are included in the price of the initial test, whereas others will offer consults for an additional fee.
Cost: The tests on this list range from $15 to $200 (or more). Tests that require lab processing are pricier, while vaginal pH tests offer a more affordable option. Also, consider the cost of shipping, treatment options and medical support, as well as if the test is eligible for payment through your HSA or FSA.
Privacy: Make sure to choose a company that is HIPPA-compliant and safeguards your information. Additionally, some tests are shipped in discreet packaging, because there's no reason to let all your neighbors know you've ordered vaginal swabs!
Frequently Asked Questions What is a yeast infection?Yeast infections are caused by a type of fungi called candida (a genus of yeast). Candida naturally lives in and on your body, but when there's an overgrowth, it can lead to infections, including oral thrush and vaginal candidiasis.
According to Stark, there are certain risk factors that can make vaginal yeast infections more likely:
Diabetes — Yeast feeds on glucose, so women who have elevated blood glucose levels are often at a higher risk.
Antibiotics — Since antibiotics kill bacteria, including the good bacteria, yeast can grow unchecked.
Compromised immunity — being immunocompromised makes it harder for the immune system to prevent infection.
Increased estrogen — Yeast infections are more common in women with higher levels of estrogen, such as women who are pregnant or on hormonal birth control.
Probably not, says Dr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified ob-gyn, "While a mild yeast infection can occasionally resolve on its own, most of the time, untreated infections will only get worse.
Stark adds, "In some cases, symptoms of itching, irritation and increased discharge can occur and then resolve within a few days, which can be mistaken for a mild infection. But, she says, "In this scenario, it's more likely that yeast was not the culprit."
Are yeast infections contagious?Yeast infections are usually not contagious, says Hack, however it is possible to transmit an infection to a partner. "A large amount of yeast could be introduced into the vagina through a yeast infection on the glans penis," she explains, adding that the passage of yeast can go both ways; some men — as many as 15% — can develop an itchy rash on their penis after unprotected sex with a partner who has a yeast infection.
What are the signs of a yeast infection?Yeast infections can cause irritation, inflammation and discomfort of the vagina and vulva, says Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob-gyn and medical director of Pediatrix Medical Group. Symptoms can vary, but they typically include:
Vaginal itching
A burning sensation when urinating or during intercourse
Redness or swelling of the vulva
Pain or soreness
Red, scaly rash
An abnormal discharge — it can be thin and watery or thick, white and clumpy with a cottage cheese-like appearance
Discharge is generally odor-free
It's important to note that symptoms can vary so it's always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you've never had a yeast infection before.
How do you treat a yeast infection?Yeast infections are treated with a type of antifungal medication called azoles, says Stark. It comes in either topical or oral form and there are both over-the-counter and prescription options available. Over-the-counter medications include topical creams, ointments and vaginal suppositories, while oral medications require a prescription. There is also a prescription-strength cream available.
Both topical and oral antifungals have similar effectiveness, Stark says, so treatment is typically based on individual preference. The only exception, she says, is during pregnancy. Topical medications are recommended for women who are pregnant, especially during the first trimester.
Are at-home yeast infection tests as accurate as in-person tests?It depends on the type of test you choose, Dr. Purdie says. Tests which are based on vaginal pH are far more limited. If your vaginal pH is higher than normal, it can be indicative of a yeast infection, but these kinds of tests can't tell you for sure if you have an infection. Lab-based tests, on the other hand, actually check your vaginal fluid for the presence of yeast or other bacteria, so they are equivalent to the type of testing that you'd get at a doctor's office.
Meet our panel of expertsDr. Stephanie Hack, obstetrician and gynecologist
Dr. Madeline Stark, obstetrician and gynecologist
Dr. Jill Purdie, ob/gyn and medical director of Pediatrix Medical Group
Aleece Fosnight, physician's assistant specializing in sexual medicine
Dr. Dan Nayot, reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist
Dr. Tara Brandner, family nurse practitioner and fertility coach
Dr. Janet Choi, reproductive endocrinologist and chief medical officer of Progyny
Dr. Rashid Bani, medical director at Your Sexual Health
View comments
Comments
Post a Comment