How to not get a yeast infection. Effective Strategies to Prevent Yeast Infections: A Comprehensive Guide

22.08.202329.06.2023 by alexxlab

How can you prevent yeast infections. What are the risk factors for developing a yeast infection. Which lifestyle changes can help reduce the likelihood of getting a yeast infection. What are the best practices for maintaining vaginal health. How do probiotics impact yeast infection prevention. What role does diet play in preventing yeast overgrowth. How can proper hygiene habits minimize the risk of yeast infections.

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Understanding Yeast Infections: Causes and Types

Yeast infections are a common health concern that affects many individuals, particularly women. These infections occur when there’s an overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast naturally present on the skin and in the body. While yeast is typically harmless in normal amounts, an imbalance can lead to infection.

There are several types of yeast infections, including:

Genital yeast infections
Oral thrush
Throat thrush

Understanding the causes and types of yeast infections is crucial for effective prevention. Factors that can contribute to yeast overgrowth include hormonal changes, weakened immune system, certain medications, and lifestyle habits.

Maintaining Proper Hygiene to Prevent Genital Yeast Infections

Genital yeast infections are among the most common types, particularly in women. Implementing proper hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of developing these infections.

Essential Hygiene Tips:

Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent the spread of microorganisms
Wear clean, cotton underwear and change it regularly
Avoid tight-fitting clothing that can trap moisture
Wash underwear in hot water and use gentle, fragrance-free detergents
Allow bathing suits to dry completely before rewearing

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can create an environment less conducive to yeast overgrowth in the genital area.

The Role of Diet in Yeast Infection Prevention

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy balance of microflora in your body, which can help prevent yeast infections. Certain foods can promote beneficial bacteria growth while others may contribute to yeast overgrowth.

Beneficial Foods for Yeast Infection Prevention:

Yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus
Fermented foods rich in probiotics
Foods high in fiber to support digestive health
Garlic, known for its antifungal properties

Incorporating these foods into your diet can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in your body. However, it’s important to remember that dietary changes alone may not be sufficient to prevent all yeast infections.

Probiotic Supplements: A Potential Ally in Yeast Infection Prevention

Probiotics have gained attention for their potential role in preventing yeast infections. These beneficial bacteria can help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the body, potentially reducing the risk of yeast overgrowth.

While research on the effectiveness of probiotic supplements for yeast infection prevention is ongoing, many healthcare professionals recommend them as a complementary approach. If you’re considering probiotic supplements, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider first.

Choosing the Right Probiotic:

Look for supplements containing Lactobacillus species
Consider the colony-forming units (CFUs) – higher numbers may be more effective
Check for additional beneficial strains like Bifidobacterium

Remember, while probiotics can be beneficial, they should not replace other preventive measures or medical treatments when necessary.

Sexual Health Practices for Yeast Infection Prevention

Sexual activity can impact your risk of developing yeast infections. Implementing safe sexual practices can help reduce the likelihood of infection transmission and maintain overall genital health.

Key Sexual Health Tips:

Avoid sexual activity while you or your partner has an active yeast infection
Use barrier methods like condoms to reduce the risk of transmission
Practice good hygiene before and after sexual activity
Consider using dental dams during oral sex to prevent oral thrush

Open communication with your sexual partner(s) about yeast infections and other sexual health concerns is crucial for mutual prevention and care.

Preventing Oral and Throat Thrush: Oral Hygiene Best Practices

Oral and throat thrush, while less common than genital yeast infections, can still cause discomfort and health issues. Maintaining good oral hygiene is key to preventing these types of yeast infections.

Oral Hygiene Tips for Thrush Prevention:

Brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily
Clean dentures regularly and ensure proper fit
Address dry mouth issues to prevent plaque formation
Schedule regular dental check-ups

For individuals prone to oral thrush, your healthcare provider may recommend additional preventive measures or antifungal treatments.

Clothing Choices and Their Impact on Yeast Infection Risk

The clothing you wear can significantly affect your risk of developing yeast infections, particularly in the genital area. Certain fabrics and clothing styles can create an environment that promotes yeast growth.

Clothing Recommendations:

Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton for underwear
Avoid tight-fitting pants or undergarments that can trap moisture
Change out of wet or sweaty clothes promptly
Consider sleeping without underwear to allow for better air circulation

By making mindful choices about your clothing, you can help maintain a dry, balanced environment that’s less hospitable to yeast overgrowth.

Understanding Risk Factors and Predisposition to Yeast Infections

While prevention strategies can be highly effective, it’s important to understand that some individuals may be more prone to yeast infections due to various factors. Recognizing these risk factors can help you take more targeted preventive measures.

Common Risk Factors for Yeast Infections:

Hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy or menstruation)
Diabetes or other conditions affecting blood sugar levels
Weakened immune system
Recent antibiotic use
Certain birth control methods

If you find yourself frequently experiencing yeast infections despite preventive measures, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying causes and provide personalized prevention and treatment strategies.

The Role of Medications in Yeast Infection Prevention

In some cases, medications may play a role in preventing yeast infections, particularly for individuals who are prone to recurrent infections or those at high risk due to other medical conditions.

Preventive Medication Strategies:

Antifungal medications taken prophylactically
Probiotics prescribed alongside antibiotics
Hormonal treatments to address underlying imbalances

It’s crucial to note that any preventive medication regimen should be undertaken only under the guidance of a healthcare professional. They can assess your individual risk factors and determine the most appropriate preventive strategy.

Lifestyle Factors That Influence Yeast Infection Risk

Beyond specific prevention strategies, overall lifestyle factors can significantly impact your risk of developing yeast infections. Adopting a holistic approach to health can help create an environment in your body that’s less conducive to yeast overgrowth.

Lifestyle Considerations for Yeast Infection Prevention:

Manage stress levels through relaxation techniques or exercise
Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients
Get adequate sleep to support immune function
Stay hydrated to support overall body function
Avoid excessive sugar intake, which can feed yeast growth

By addressing these lifestyle factors, you can support your body’s natural defenses against yeast overgrowth and reduce your risk of infections.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Yeast Infection Prevention

While many preventive measures can be implemented at home, there are times when it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice regarding yeast infection prevention.

Situations Warranting Medical Consultation:

Recurrent yeast infections (more than 3-4 times per year)
Persistent symptoms despite over-the-counter treatments
Uncertainty about whether symptoms indicate a yeast infection
Presence of other health conditions that may increase infection risk

A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice, perform necessary tests, and prescribe appropriate treatments or preventive measures based on your individual health profile.

Natural Remedies and Their Potential in Yeast Infection Prevention

Many individuals turn to natural remedies as part of their yeast infection prevention strategy. While scientific evidence for some of these methods may be limited, some people find them helpful as complementary approaches.

Popular Natural Prevention Methods:

Tea tree oil as a topical application (diluted appropriately)
Apple cider vinegar baths or diluted rinses
Coconut oil as a natural antifungal
Boric acid suppositories (under medical supervision)

It’s important to approach natural remedies with caution and always consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating them into your prevention routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

The Importance of Education in Yeast Infection Prevention

Knowledge is a powerful tool in preventing yeast infections. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies can empower individuals to take proactive steps in maintaining their health.

Key Areas of Yeast Infection Education:

Recognizing early symptoms of yeast infections
Understanding personal risk factors
Learning about proper hygiene practices
Staying informed about new research and prevention strategies

Consider seeking information from reputable health sources, attending educational sessions, or discussing yeast infection prevention with your healthcare provider to enhance your knowledge and prevention skills.

By implementing a combination of these preventive strategies and maintaining awareness of your body’s needs, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing yeast infections. Remember that prevention is an ongoing process, and it may take some time to find the right combination of strategies that work best for you. If you continue to experience frequent yeast infections despite preventive measures, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice for more targeted interventions.

How to Prevent Yeast Infections

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Medically reviewed by Holly Ernst, PA-C — By Kristeen Cherney — Updated on March 5, 2019

Yeast is common

Yeast infections are relatively common. This is especially true of vaginal yeast infections. However, yeast infections don’t just affect the vagina. They can occur on the penis and other areas of the body, like in the mouth and throat.

Most often, an overgrowth of Candida is the reason behind a yeast infection. Candida is a family of yeasts that naturally occur on the skin. It’s usually harmless in normal amounts. Yeast is part of the fungi kingdom.

Keep reading to learn more about preventive measures for the most common yeast infections.

Keep in mind you may simply be prone to frequent yeast infections or genetically predisposed to yeast infections. Still, preventive measures may help a lot with preventing a yeast infection.

Preventing genital yeast infections

For the prevention of genital yeast infections, consider the following:

Avoid sexual activity while a partner has a yeast infection, even if they don’t have active symptoms. Yeast infections can be passed back and forth. They can also be transferred from one area of the body to another, like genitals to mouth.
Wipe front to back to help prevent additional microorganisms from being pushed up in the vagina or introduced into the urinary tract.
Wear cotton underwear and change it regularly. Also wear loose, cotton clothing. Tight clothing might trap in moisture and cause friction on your skin, making areas more susceptible to yeast overgrowth.
Wash certain garments like underwear in hot water. Add bleach if necessary. Also, be sure to use gentle detergents that are free of fragrances and colors. These will be less irritating to your skin should an infection develop.
Let your bathing suit dry fully. Avoid constantly re-wearing the same wet bathing suit.
Eat foods that help balance out microflora in the body. These can include yogurts containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, a type of natural probiotic.
Take a probiotic supplement. Always let your doctor know what supplements you take.
Take antifungal medications (fluconazole) whenever you’re prescribed an antibiotic. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you’re prone to yeast infections.

Keep in mind that complementary treatments or prevention, like taking probiotics or using garlic or tea tree oil, aren’t medically proven for safety and efficacy in treatment. However, some people feel they do help with balancing natural bacterial balance. Make sure to discuss all supplements and over-the-counter treatments with your doctor.

Preventing oral and throat thrush

Preventing oral and throat thrush requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices. Antifungal drugs may also be used to treat recurring infections. Here’s how to prevent oral and throat thrush:

Address dry mouth to prevent plaque formation and yeast growth. Here are some remedies.
Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, every day.
Clean your dentures regularly.
See your dentist for regular checkups.
Wear dental dams during oral sex.

A yeast overgrowth causes most cases of yeast infections. Three common types of yeast infections are:

genital yeast infection
oral thrush
throat thrush

Learn more about other fungal infections like jock itch and athlete’s foot.

To help you prevent a yeast infection, it’s good to know which factors contribute to one in the first place. While yeast infections can happen to anyone at any age, there are certain risk factors that can increase your chances.

The core of a yeast infection is the overgrowth of yeast, so simply having too much in the body can automatically put you at risk.

More specific factors that increase your risk include:

Taking antibiotics. While antibiotics get rid of harmful bacteria, they also kill good bacteria. Without healthy bacteria to keep Candida at bay, it can quickly multiply and become a potential problem.
Taking high-estrogen birth control pills. Estrogen in birth control pills can lead to yeast overgrowth. Pregnant women are also at a higher risk of yeast infections due to naturally higher estrogen levels.
Humidity. Candida yeasts and other fungus tend to thrive in wet, humid conditions.
Moisture in your clothing. Sweaty clothes and wet bathing suits can increase moisture in the genital area, making it a breeding ground for fungal overgrowth.
Having certain conditions. Diabetes or a compromised immune system may also increase your risk.

Mild yeast infections are the easiest to treat, especially when they’re caught early. Severe or recurring yeast infections can take more time. Keep in touch with your doctor if symptoms of a yeast infection get worse or come back.

Last medically reviewed on September 17, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Candida infections in the mouth, throat, and esophagus. (2017).
cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/thrush/index.html
Duerr A, et al. (2003). Incident and persistent vulvovaginal candidiasis among human immunodeficiency virus-infected women: Risk factors and severity.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=12636961
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2015). Yeast infection (vaginal).
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017). Acidophilus.
mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-acidophilus/art-20361967
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Oral thrush.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-thrush/symptoms-causes/syc-20353533
The prevention and treatment of oral thrush. (2016).
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0088209/
Steckelberg JM. (2018). Yeast infection in men: How can I tell if I have one?
mayoclinic.org/male-yeast-infection/expert-answers/faq-20058464
Vaginal candidiasis. (2017).
cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/genital/index.html
Vaginal yeast infections. (2018).
womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/vaginal-yeast-infections
Vaginitis. (2017).
acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Vaginitis

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Medically reviewed by Holly Ernst, PA-C — By Kristeen Cherney — Updated on March 5, 2019

Methods and when to see a doctor

Small amounts of fungus naturally exist on and in the body, causing no problems. But certain factors can cause it to multiply out of control, resulting in a yeast infection.

Yeast infections usually happen when the fungus Candida albicans proliferates unchecked. This can occur almost anywhere on or in the body, including the skin, mouth, and genitals.

Though the symptoms can be uncomfortable, a yeast infection is usually not serious. However, the infection can enter the bloodstream if the person does not receive treatment, and this is a medical emergency.

Below, find seven tips for preventing yeast infections. Also, learn why these infections can return and when to contact a doctor.

Here, we explore the benefits of breathable underwear, the risks posed by diabetes, and more.

1. Having a low-sugar diet

Yeasts feed on sugars and starches. A 2015 review observes that consuming refined sugars and high-lactose dairy products may encourage the growth of yeast. Eating fewer of these foods may help prevent yeast infections, though further research is necessary.

In the meantime, a person may find that eliminating the following helps prevent yeast infections:

foods containing simple sugars
white flour
white rice
foods and drinks that have been fermented with yeast

Cutting out sugars and refined carbohydrates can result in increased hunger. In response, a person should boost their intake of:

low-starch fruits and vegetables
protein-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, and legumes
healthful fats and oils

2. Maintaining a healthy weight

Someone with overweight or obesity may have larger skin folds that trap in heat and moisture. In this type of environment, yeasts thrive

Having overweight or obesity also increases a person’s risk of diabetes, a condition that makes a person more susceptible to yeast infections.

3. Managing diabetes

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes cause high blood glucose levels, which encourage the growth of yeast. This is why people with diabetes have an increased risk of yeast infections.

To reduce this risk, people with diabetes need to control their blood glucose levels, which tends to involve:

regularly monitoring their levels
taking insulin or other diabetes medications
making dietary changes

4. Wearing breathable clothing

Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. To prevent yeast infections of the skin and genitals, opt for loose clothing made from breathable materials, such as:

cotton
linen
silk

For exercising, try fabrics that wick moisture away from the skin. Also, make sure to change out of damp clothes immediately after a workout.

5. Having good hygiene

Boosting hygiene can help prevent yeast infections.

Avoid cleaning the genitals with scented products, which can irritate these delicate areas. Look for products that are unscented and free from other harsh chemicals.

After a bath or shower, dry the genital area gently but thoroughly to remove any excess moisture.

Penile hygiene

Smegma is a natural fluid that can help lubricate the head of the penis and the foreskin, but a buildup of smegma encourages the growth of yeast.

Cleaning the penis thoroughly and regularly helps prevent this buildup.

Vaginal hygiene

The following strategies reduce the risk of vaginal yeast infections:

Avoid douching: The vagina contains important bacteria that control populations of fungi. Douching can cause an imbalance in these bacteria, resulting in an overgrowth of fungi and a yeast infection.
Wipe from front to back: This helps prevent the spread of yeast or bacteria between the anus and vagina.
Change pads or tampons frequently: This helps prevent vaginal infections generally.

6.

Maintaining strong sexual health

Yeasts infections can pass to partners through sex — unless people use barrier protection, such as condoms.

A person’s penis is sometimes itchy following unprotected intercourse with someone who has a vaginal yeast infection. If both partners have symptoms of a yeast infection, both require treatment.

7. Taking probiotics

Beneficial bacteria help control populations of fungi that cause yeast infections. An imbalance in the numbers of helpful and harmful bacteria can lead to an overgrowth of fungi and a yeast infection.

Some factors that can contribute to a bacterial imbalance include:

chronic stress
hormonal changes or imbalances
the use of antibiotics

Taking probiotics might help replenish levels of beneficial bacteria in the body, thereby preventing yeast infections.

The following foods are good sources of probiotics:

yogurt containing live bacterial cultures
fermented foods, such as:
- kefir
- kimchi
- kombucha
- some pickles
- some sauerkraut

Alternately, people can take probiotic supplements containing the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus.

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can increase a person’s risk of yeast infections. These infections are especially common during the third trimester.

There is no evidence that vaginal yeast infections can harm a fetus. For the pregnant person, however, they can be very uncomfortable.

A person can reduce the risk of a yeast infection by:

avoiding hygiene products that contain fragrances and other harsh chemicals
avoiding douching and genital deodorants
avoiding perfumed toilet paper
avoiding hot baths and hot tubs
immediately changing out of damp clothing, such as after exercising
wearing underwear made from breathable materials, such as cotton or silk

Some yeast infection treatments are not safe during pregnancy, so contact a doctor or pharmacist for advice.

A yeast infection may come back repeatedly following treatment. This might happen for several reasons, including:

having sex with a partner who has an untreated infection
taking hormonal birth control
being pregnant
having an underlying health condition, such as diabetes
taking certain medications, such as:
- antibiotics
- steroids
- immunosuppressants
- chemotherapy drugs

A doctor should evaluate anyone who may have a yeast infection to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms, such as sexually transmitted infections.

Also, see a doctor if an infection is not responding to treatment. A stronger dosage or a different type of antifungal medication may be necessary.

A doctor should determine the cause of recurrent yeast infections, as this can result from underlying health issues.

Yeast infections are fungal, and they usually result from an overgrowth of the fungus C. albicans. Small amounts of this naturally live on and in the body, but certain factors can cause this fungus to grow unchecked, resulting in an infection.

To reduce the risk of a yeast infection, have a healthful diet and strong hygiene, and make sure to receive effective treatment for any underlying medical conditions.

Anyone who suspects a yeast infection should see a doctor, and this is especially important if the infection does not respond to treatment or keeps returning.

Is it possible to have sex during thrush?

Can I have sex during thrush? Is candidiasis sexually transmitted? These questions concern patients all over the world. Let’s figure out together with the doctor what partners should know about thrush before sexual intercourse.

Lyudmila Starichenko

doctor of the highest qualification category,
chief physician of the Clinic of Innovative Technologies
work experience 41 years

doctor’s consultation by phone:
+7 (963) 380-10-31
+7 (865) 257-76-05

find out more on the website

Thrush and sex: what is the relationship?

Is thrush sexually transmitted?

How candidiasis affects how you feel during sex

Thrush after intercourse: symptoms

Why should you abstain from sex with thrush?

Sex during treatment of thrush: is it possible?

Treatment of thrush

Prevention: how to avoid thrush

Thrush is a very common disease of the vaginal mucosa. Thrush itself has nothing to do with sex. Therefore, candidiasis cannot occur after intercourse or because of it. The main cause of the manifestation of the disease is a fungal infection.

Read more about who can get candidiasis in our article “Thrush in Women”.

Thrush and sex: what is the relationship?

Many patients with candidiasis are greatly mistaken when they say that they caught the disease from their partner. Despite the common belief, thrush and sex have nothing to do with each other.

Candidiasis is a urogenital disease, and it is simply impossible to catch it from your partner!

However, you can “catch” opportunistic fungi of the genus Candida, which cause thrush. But they are often already in the body in both men and women.

And if everything is in order with your immunity, you follow preventive measures and do not fall into any group of factors that cause thrush, there is a great chance that your body will cope with “extra” fungi on its own and the disease will not develop.

Is thrush sexually transmitted?

Most often, patients ask a similar question and are very worried if they had a sexual relationship with a partner with thrush. But we hasten to reassure you. By itself, candidiasis cannot be transmitted in any way. Only yeast-like fungi that cause thrush can be transmitted. The presence of such fungi on the mucous membranes does not yet mean that the infection will “take root” and the sexual partner will definitely get candidiasis.

Let’s give an illustrative example. Your friend is very sick. Let’s say he caught another SARS. You, in order to support the poor fellow, decided to take care of him and spent the whole day near his bed. The sick person was served either chicken soup or hot tea with lemon and honey. Could you “catch” the same infection? Yes, sure. But are you sure you will get sick now? Not at all. Everything here will depend on the strength of your immunity.

The same analogy can be drawn with thrush. Even if you had a sexual relationship with a person who has candidiasis, it is not at all necessary that now you will have the same disease. Yes, Candida fungi can be transmitted to you, but strong general and local immunity, the composition of your own microflora and the absence of predisposing factors, which we talked about earlier, can “defeat” them.

So, returning to the question, we can definitely say that candidiasis itself is not transmitted, but opportunistic fungi are transmitted. Yes, they can be sexually transmitted, but this is not at all a guarantee that you will now get candidiasis. However, it is still better to protect yourself and engage in exclusively protected sex.

The dangers of oral and anal sex in thrush should also be mentioned. Although the disease itself is not transmitted, oral sex during thrush is dangerous due to the possibility of microcracks and infection of the oral cavity with yeast-like fungi. Such infection can lead to oral candidiasis.

Thrush during anal sex is also dangerous due to the possibility of microcracks and infection of the rectal ampulla with yeast-like fungi, which, with a weakened immune system, can lead to intestinal candidiasis and systemic diseases.

How candidiasis affects the sensations during sex

Unfortunately, thrush significantly impairs the patient’s quality of life, and especially the quality of sexual life. Often, unpleasant symptoms bother patients so much that they simply don’t feel like having sex. However, if you really want to, then no one limits the patients, although this is undesirable. And yet, doctors strongly recommend protected intercourse.

Those who do decide to have sex during thrush should not expect much. Both men and women experience burning and itching, pain in the lower abdomen and discomfort during candidiasis. These symptoms are greatly aggravated during intercourse. As a rule, men with candidiasis may experience increased sexual desire, but severe pain begins during an erection and the patient fails to enjoy it.

Thrush after intercourse: symptoms

areas genitals.

In addition, in women after intercourse, an unpleasant odor increases significantly, and men may complain of a pronounced swelling of the penis. In addition, the stronger sex may suffer after intercourse from inflammation of the urethra and burning during urination, gray and white plaque, dryness of the mucous membrane and cracks on the surface of the penis, multiple rashes, discharge from the urethra with a specific smell.

Why should you abstain from sex when you have thrush? Doctors recommend giving up sex during thrush for several reasons. Firstly, unpleasant symptoms simply “kill” all desire. Secondly, itching and burning simply interfere with focusing on pleasure, which means that it becomes difficult and almost impossible to get an orgasm.

The last and most important reason is that it is best to avoid all sexual contact during treatment. Of course, thrush itself is not transmitted, but only opportunistic fungi are transmitted, which may not take root at all. But if a person is already sick with candidiasis, then these yeast-like fungi in most cases will take root and may even cause a relapse of the disease. Therefore, if you still really want to, no one will limit you. But then do not neglect protective measures and use a condom without fail.

Why should you abstain from sex when you have thrush?

When prescribing treatment, sexual contact should be avoided at all costs. It is necessary to do this in the first place precisely because during sexual contact there is a risk that again there will be a re-infection with yeast-like fungi. With this outcome, the formation of drug-resistant strains of fungi and transformation into chronic processes is possible in the body. And getting rid of chronic thrush is much more difficult. Therefore, it is better to wait a little with sexual contacts. However, if you still really want to, then no doctor will limit you. Just remember to protect yourself and use a condom.

Sex during thrush treatment: is it possible?

Treatment of thrush

If you are even 100% sure that you have thrush, you cannot choose medications and prescribe treatment for yourself. This can only be done by a doctor on the basis of laboratory tests, based on the clinical picture, the age of the patient, reproductive plans and many other factors. Self-selection of medicines and even more self-medication is strictly prohibited! All drugs against thrush are divided into three types: capsule tablets, ointments and suppositories .

Read more about the treatment of thrush in the material “Thrush in women”.

Prevention: how to avoid thrush

What can I do to avoid thrush? To begin with, strengthen your immunity, since it is thanks to its weakening that the growth of yeast-like fungi begins. Watch your health, temper yourself, eat right, take vitamin complexes and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Antibiotics should also be avoided, which are excellent breeding grounds for Candida.

In addition, basic hygiene rules must be observed. Wear comfortable cotton underwear: after all, synthetic thongs can injure delicate skin and form microcracks that will provoke the appearance of candidiasis.

Girls should forget about scented pads. It is worth paying attention to the timely replacement of pads and tampons according to the instructions.

Oral contraceptives are best replaced with conventional contraception in the form of a condom.

Try to avoid unprotected sex. First, it will protect you from contracting diseases such as AIDS and syphilis. And secondly, unprotected sex can lead to the exchange of bacteria, among which there will be yeast-like fungi that cause thrush.

And, of course, do not forget to visit a gynecologist or urologist at least twice a year. The main thing to remember is that disease prevention is the main guarantee of good health and improving the quality of life for many years to come.

find out how to get diagnosed

Although thrush cannot be contracted through sex, it is best to avoid sexual intercourse during an illness. After all, this way you can protect yourself and your body from possible infection with fungi of the genus Candida. The main thing to remember is that even chronic candidiasis can be cured. It is only necessary to consult a doctor in a timely manner and start taking medications. And only if you follow all the recommendations, you can once and for all forget about what thrush is. Be healthy!

If you still have questions, you can ask them to the specialists of the Innovative Technology Clinic.
Website: https://3dkit.ru/
Phone: +7 (963) 380-10-31 +7 (865) 257-76-05
. Dovatortsev, 53 B
Author: Ekaterina Vlasova
Photo: Anastasia Ryazhskaya
How thrush is transmitted to a man – Private practice
Thrush is probably the most common inflammatory disease of the female genital area caused by a fungus of the Candida type, therefore it is also called candidiasis. There is practically no woman who has not had at least one episode of thrush in her life. And now, in general, recurrent chronic candidiasis is very common, characterized by constant exacerbations, itching and white vaginal discharge. All this makes certain adjustments to the sexual life of a woman and her sexual partner. Therefore, the question arises very sharply whether thrush is transmitted during various types of sexual intercourse.
Candidiasis is not necessarily acquired through sexual contact. This fungus lives in small numbers in any organism on the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and genital organs and does not cause any harm. But under certain conditions, it can be sharply activated and cause inflammation. This happens when:
Reduced immunity
Antibiotic treatment
Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives
Frequent douching of the vagina, leading to a violation of its microflora.
Eating a lot of sugars.
As a result, a candidal lesion of the vagina in women or the glans penis in men develops. At this time, the amount of the fungus is very large, and it is able to be transmitted sexually.
Can a man get thrush from a woman during this period? Of course yes! This is exactly what happens most often in the development of candidal balanoposthitis in men after contact with a sexual partner who has an exacerbation of thrush.
Consider the reverse situation. Is it possible to get thrush from a man? Not everything is so clear here. Of course, if there is a large number of Candida albicans and its other subspecies on the surface of the male genital organs or in his urethra, then the infection will definitely get to the mucous membrane of the female genital organs. But with a normal, strong microflora of the vagina, containing a large number of lactobacilli, Candida will not be able to cause inflammation, and thrush will not develop.
After prolonged treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics, the microflora is often disturbed not only in the vagina, but also in the gastrointestinal tract, in the oropharynx. A large number of fungi appear on the oral mucosa, candidal glossitis, stomatitis, and pharyngitis develop. Accordingly, the question arises whether thrush is transmitted from a woman to a man during oral contact, and how possible is such an alternative to sexual life with vaginal candidiasis, when classic sex is prohibited? Dear patients, there should be no illusions about whether it is possible to become infected with candidiasis in this situation. Infection is bound to happen! The fungus absolutely does not care from which mucous membrane to move to a new host. And in the case of orogenital contact, a large number of conditionally pathogenic bacteria also pass, which live in large numbers in the oropharynx and on the tonsils, which further aggravates the damage to the male genital organs.
A very common cause of intestinal candidiasis is dysbacteriosis, when normal bifidumbacteria and lactobacilli are forced out, and opportunistic flora and fungi actively multiply.
Is candidiasis transmitted in this case during anal sex? The situation is generally similar. Transmission of Candida albicans is possible both from the intestinal mucosa to the glans penis and urethra, and from a member affected by candidiasis to the rectum of a partner with the development of candidal proctitis. This also applies to homosexual contacts.
Let’s summarize all the information about how thrush is infected:
Infection of a man with candidiasis during normal vaginal contact in the presence of a large amount of fungus in the woman’s vagina.
Infection of a healthy woman from a man with candidal balanoposthitis or urethritis.
Contact of Candida albicans from the mucous membrane of the tongue, pharynx, cheeks on the genitals of a man or woman during orogenital contacts.
Development of candidiasis of the pharynx due to infection during oral sex from a partner with thrush of the vagina and penis.
Spread of the fungus to the perianal region and rectum from the oropharynx affected by the fungus.
Development of candidal balanoposthitis or proctitis with anogenital contact as a result of the transmission of the fungus from the rectum to the skin of the penis and vice versa.
There are rare cases of transmission of candidiasis when trying on clothes, in the bath and sauna.
Dear patients, now you have complete information about how you can get thrush, and you can plan your sex life to protect yourself and your partners from this disease.
If you have any symptoms of candidiasis of the vagina, penis, mouth, intestines, you should consult a doctor, undergo laboratory diagnostics and adequate therapy. Do not self-medicate. It only leads to the development of a chronic, often recurrent fungal disease.