How to Prevent Yeast Infections

A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus normally found in the body. The organism Candida albicans is usually responsible for most infections. It can be caused by a variety of reasons including tight clothing, feminine products, pregnancy, diabetes, and the use of certain medications. Here are some strategies that can help you prevent yeast infections.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Towels

1. Dry vaginal area throughly after showering or swimming. A moist environment encourages the growth of yeast.
2. Avoid wearing tight clothing such as tight jeans, nylon panties, pantyhose, or clothing made of synthetic materials such as polyester. A tight, moist environment encourages the growth of yeast.
3. Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch.
4. Remove your wet bathing suit as soon as possible after swimming.
5. Wipe yourself after urinating or a bowel movement from front to back. This helps to avoid possible transfer of yeast from the rectum to the vagina.
6. Check diaper frequently for soiling. A moist environment encourages the growth of yeast.
7. Avoid douching. Douching disturbs normal vaginal pH balance which can lead to yeast infections.
8. Avoid use of feminine hygiene products such as feminine sprays and bubble baths. These products can be irritating to the vagina.
9. Avoid use of scented, deodorant or colored toilet paper, tampons, pads, or pantyliners. These products can be irritating to the vagina.
10. Use unscented pads and tampons during your menstrual period.
11. Use unscented and white toilet paper.
12. Eat yogurt that contains live cultures of lactobacilius acidophilis.
13. Decrease consumption of sugar. Increased sugar levels in your body causes yeast to grow faster.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your health care provider about prophylactic treatment for yeast infections if you are taking medication that increases your chances for a yeast infection, such as antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and steriods.
• Signs and symptoms of a yeast infection include: redness and itching of the vaginal area, burning during urination, pain during intercourse, and white, cheesy, odorless discharge.
• If you suspect you are having a yeast infection for the first time, consult your health care provider for medical evaluation to be sure it is in fact a yeast infection.