What are the common symptoms of yeast infections. How can you prevent yeast infections from occurring. When should you see a doctor about a yeast infection. What treatment options are available for yeast infections.

The Basics of Yeast Infections: What You Need to Know

Yeast infections are fungal infections that can affect both men and women, occurring in various parts of the body. However, the most common form is the vaginal yeast infection, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis. These infections are widespread, with approximately 75% of women experiencing at least one yeast infection in their lifetime. Moreover, 40-45% of women may suffer from recurring infections.

A vaginal yeast infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of healthy yeast that normally resides in the vagina. This overgrowth can be triggered by several factors, disrupting the delicate balance of the vaginal microbiome.

Recognizing the Signs: Common Symptoms of Yeast Infections

Are you experiencing unusual discomfort in your genital area? It could be a yeast infection. The primary symptoms include itchiness and irritation, but there are several other signs to watch out for:

• A thick, white, clumpy discharge resembling cottage cheese, often with little to no odor
• Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva (the outer part of the female genitals)
• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse

If you’re experiencing any combination of these symptoms, it’s essential to consider the possibility of a yeast infection and take appropriate action.

Unraveling the Causes: What Triggers Yeast Infections?

The vagina naturally maintains a delicate balance of yeast and bacteria. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to an overgrowth of yeast, resulting in an infection. But what causes this imbalance?

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact the vaginal environment. Events such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, and even the use of birth control pills can alter the balance of healthy yeast in the vagina.

Antibiotic Use

While antibiotics are essential for fighting bacterial infections, they can inadvertently kill off the good bacteria in your vagina. This disruption can lead to an overgrowth of yeast, potentially causing an infection.

Weakened Immune System

A compromised immune system can make it challenging for your body to maintain the proper balance of microorganisms, increasing the risk of yeast infections.

Individual Chemistry

Interestingly, your natural reaction to another person’s genital chemistry can sometimes alter your vaginal flora enough to trigger an infection. However, it’s important to note that yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections.

Uncontrolled Diabetes

Poorly managed diabetes can lead to increased sugar levels in the mucus membranes of your vagina, creating an ideal environment for yeast overgrowth.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Yeast Infections at Bay

Can you reduce your risk of developing a yeast infection? Absolutely! Here are some effective prevention strategies:

• Wear loose-fitting clothing made of breathable materials like cotton
• Avoid tight-fitting jeans, leggings, and pantyhose
• Steer clear of douching, which can disrupt the natural vaginal flora
• Skip scented feminine hygiene products, including fragranced bath products, pads, and tampons
• Use antibiotics only when necessary
• Change out of wet clothing, such as swimwear and workout attire, promptly

By keeping the vaginal area dry and cool, you can help maintain a balanced vaginal flora and reduce the risk of yeast infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Knowing When to Consult a Doctor

While many yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter medications, there are instances when it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if:

• You’re experiencing symptoms for the first time and have never had a yeast infection before
• You have concerning symptoms but are unsure if they indicate a yeast infection
• Over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories fail to relieve your symptoms

Remember, the symptoms of a yeast infection can sometimes mimic those of more serious conditions, including sexually transmitted infections and bacterial vaginosis. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional.

Treatment Options: Addressing Yeast Infections Effectively

How are yeast infections typically treated? There are several options available, depending on the severity and frequency of your infections:

Over-the-Counter Treatments

For mild to moderate yeast infections, over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, or suppositories are often effective. These typically contain miconazole, clotrimazole, or similar medications.

Prescription Medications

In more severe cases or for recurring infections, your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications like fluconazole (Diflucan) or stronger topical treatments.

Long-Term Maintenance

For women who experience frequent yeast infections, long-term maintenance therapy may be recommended. This could involve taking a weekly oral antifungal medication or using periodic topical treatments.

It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

The Role of Probiotics in Yeast Infection Management

Can probiotics help in managing yeast infections? Some studies suggest that probiotics, particularly those containing Lactobacillus species, may help in preventing and treating yeast infections. These beneficial bacteria can help maintain a healthy vaginal pH and microbiome balance.

While more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of probiotics in treating yeast infections, many healthcare providers recommend them as a complementary approach to traditional treatments.

Debunking Myths: Common Misconceptions About Yeast Infections

There are several myths surrounding yeast infections that can lead to confusion and misinformation. Let’s address some of these misconceptions:

Myth: Yeast Infections Are Sexually Transmitted

While sexual activity can sometimes trigger a yeast infection, these infections are not considered sexually transmitted diseases. They can occur even in individuals who are not sexually active.

Myth: Only Women Get Yeast Infections

Although more common in women, men can also develop yeast infections. These typically occur on the penis and can cause redness, itching, and a rash.

Myth: Eating Yogurt Cures Yeast Infections

While yogurt contains beneficial bacteria, eating it is unlikely to cure an active yeast infection. However, some studies suggest that applying probiotic yogurt directly to the vagina may help in some cases.

Myth: Douching Prevents Yeast Infections

Contrary to popular belief, douching can actually increase the risk of yeast infections by disrupting the natural balance of vaginal flora. It’s best to avoid this practice altogether.

The Impact of Lifestyle Factors on Yeast Infection Risk

Are certain lifestyle choices increasing your risk of yeast infections? Let’s explore some factors that could be contributing to recurrent infections:

Diet and Nutrition

While there’s no definitive evidence linking specific foods to yeast infections, some research suggests that a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates may increase the risk. Conversely, a balanced diet rich in probiotics and low in sugar may help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome.

Stress Levels

Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, potentially making you more susceptible to yeast infections. Implementing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise may help reduce your risk.

Sleep Habits

Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system. Poor sleep habits could potentially increase your vulnerability to infections, including yeast infections.

Clothing Choices

As mentioned earlier, tight-fitting, non-breathable clothing can create a warm, moist environment that’s ideal for yeast growth. Opting for loose, breathable fabrics can help reduce your risk.

Understanding Recurrent Yeast Infections: When to Be Concerned

Do you find yourself dealing with yeast infections on a regular basis? Recurrent yeast infections, defined as four or more infections in a year, can be frustrating and may indicate an underlying issue.

Possible causes of recurrent yeast infections include:

• Undiagnosed diabetes
• A weakened immune system
• Hormonal imbalances
• Resistant strains of yeast
• Certain medications or birth control methods

If you’re experiencing frequent yeast infections, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend additional testing to rule out other conditions and develop a long-term management plan.

The Connection Between Yeast Infections and Other Health Conditions

Are yeast infections linked to other health issues? In some cases, recurring yeast infections can be a sign of an underlying health condition. Some conditions that may increase your risk of yeast infections include:

HIV/AIDS

Individuals with HIV/AIDS often have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to various infections, including yeast infections.

Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing yeast infections. It’s important for pregnant women to consult their healthcare provider before using any treatments.

Autoimmune Disorders

Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis that affect the immune system can potentially increase the risk of yeast infections.

Certain Cancers

Some cancers and cancer treatments can weaken the immune system, potentially leading to an increased risk of yeast infections.

If you have any of these conditions and are experiencing frequent yeast infections, it’s crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider to ensure proper management of both conditions.

Navigating Yeast Infections During Pregnancy

How do yeast infections affect pregnant women? Yeast infections are actually more common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. While they don’t pose a direct risk to the developing baby, they can be uncomfortable for the mother and may increase the risk of other infections.

If you’re pregnant and suspect you have a yeast infection, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter treatments. Some medications may not be safe during pregnancy, and your doctor can recommend the most appropriate and safest treatment options.

The Future of Yeast Infection Treatment: Emerging Research and Therapies

What does the future hold for yeast infection treatment? Researchers are continually exploring new approaches to prevent and treat yeast infections. Some promising areas of study include:

Novel Antifungal Agents

Scientists are developing new antifungal medications that may be more effective against resistant strains of yeast.

Probiotic Therapies

Further research is being conducted on the use of specific probiotic strains to prevent and treat yeast infections.

Immunotherapy

Some researchers are exploring the potential of immunotherapy to enhance the body’s natural defenses against yeast overgrowth.

Personalized Treatment Approaches

As our understanding of the vaginal microbiome grows, there’s potential for more personalized treatment approaches based on an individual’s unique microbial makeup.

While these areas of research are promising, it’s important to remember that current treatment options are generally effective for most cases of yeast infections. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the most up-to-date and appropriate treatment recommendations.

Yeast Infections – Advanced Gynecology

Common Yeast Infection Symptoms

Causes of Yeast Infections

Yeast Infection Prevention

When To See a Doctor About a Yeast Infection

How Advanced Gynecology Can Help: Treatment Options for Yeast Infection

Yeast infections can happen to anyone at seemingly anytime. They are uncomfortable, itchy and irritating, but are easily treatable.

Yeast infections are fungal infections that can occur in both men and women in several different places on the body. The most common form of yeast infection is the vaginal yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis). 75% of women will experience a yeast infection in their lifetime, while up to 40%-45% of women will have recurring infections. A vaginal yeast infection occurs when healthy yeast that normally lives in your vagina grows out of control. This overgrowth of yeast can be triggered by several different factors.

There are many different treatment options for yeast infections including prescription pills and creams, as well as over-the-counter options. Recurrent yeast infections may call for a longer treatment course and maintenance options.

Common Yeast Infection Symptoms

The main symptoms of a yeast infection are itchiness and irritation; however you may experience any or all of the following:

• A thick, white, clumpy discharge, similar to cottage cheese, that often has little to no odor.
• Redness and swelling of the vagina and the vulva (the outer part of the female genitals)
• Pain or burning during urination
• Uncomfortable or painful sexual intercourse

Causes of Yeast Infections

The vagina is home to a natural balance of yeast and bacteria. If the chemistry of the vagina becomes imbalanced, the normal yeast that live in the vagina can grow too much and lead to an infection. Here are some things that can lead to an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina:

• Hormonal changes can change the balance of healthy yeast in the vagina. Pregnancy, breast-feeding, menopause, and birth control pills are all hormonal factors that can change the vaginal environment.
• Antibiotics can kill off many of the bacteria that live in your vagina, causing an imbalance in the natural vaginal flora. While antibiotics kill off whatever bad bacteria is causing the primary infection, it also kills off the good bacteria that keeps the vaginal flora healthy, leading to an overgrowth of yeast.
• A weakened or impaired immune system.
• Your natural reaction to another individual’s genital chemistry can alter the natural vaginal flora enough to cause an infection (though a yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection).
• Diabetes that is not well-controlled, leading to an increase in sugar in the mucus membranes (moist linings) of your vagina, creating the perfect conditions for the overgrowth of yeast.

Yeast Infection Prevention

There are many factors that increase the risk of developing a yeast infection. To reduce this risk, wear loose fitting clothing made of breathable materials like cotton. Try to avoid:

• Tight fitting jeans, leggings and pantyhose
• Douching, which can remove normal bacteria that helps to keep the vaginal flora balanced
• Scented feminine hygiene products including fragranced bath salts, bubbles and soaks, pads and tampons
• Unnecessary antibiotic use
• Remaining in wet clothing, such as swimwear and workout attire, for prolonged periods of time Keeping the vaginal area dry and cool helps to keep the vaginal flora balanced.

When To See A Doctor about a Yeast Infection

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• You’ve developed symptoms and have never experienced a yeast infection previously
• You have concerning symptoms but are unsure whether or not you have a yeast infection
• Over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories do not relieve your symptoms

How Advanced Gynecology Can Help: Treatment Options for Yeast Infection

If you’ve been suffering with itchiness or unusual discharge, Advanced Gynecology is here for you. Our board-certified team of women’s health experts are ready to help you with diagnostic care and a range of options from testing to maintenance. We will counsel you about the best options for you and your health. If you think you have a yeast infection, see your doctor before treating yourself. The symptoms of a yeast infection can be similar to more serious conditions, including sexually transmitted infections and bacterial vaginosis. 

For more information, schedule an appointment today or call 706-389-9228 to speak with one of our patient coordinators.

Request an Appointment

What Causes Your Yeast Infections?: The Ob-Gyn Center: OBGYNs

When you experience that all too familiar vaginal itching, burning, and irritation, it could be that you’ve developed a yeast infection. With around 75% of women getting at least one in their lifetime, yeast infections are extremely common and can be unpleasant to experience.

If you’ve had one or multiple yeast infections, you’re undoubtedly wondering what causes them and what you can do to minimize your risk of further infections. Anita Gondy, MD, Saovaros V. Michaels, MD, and Henry Luh, DO, our OB/GYNs at Women’s Health Associates of Southern Nevada, Northwest in Las Vegas, Nevada, explain the most common causes, prevention, and treatment tips for yeast infections.

What are yeast infections?

Vaginal yeast infections, or candidiasis, are caused by a change in the balance of bacteria to yeast cells in your vaginal opening. You develop a yeast infection when candida albicans yeast starts multiplying in your vagina, causing an infection to develop.

Symptoms of vaginal yeast infections include irritation, itchiness, a burning sensation, and redness and swelling in and around your vagina. You can also develop a white, thick discharge that has an appearance similar to cottage cheese.

Yeast infections are not usually dangerous, but they can be highly uncomfortable or painful, especially when urinating, during sexual intercourse, or if you’re prone to recurring infections.

Common causes of yeast infections

There are a number of reasons you can develop a yeast infection. Some of the most common causes include:

Taking antibiotics

Antibiotics resolve infections by killing bacteria, but this also means they can kill the healthy bacteria in your vagina. This can upset your vaginal bacterial-yeast balance, leading to a yeast infection.

Being pregnant

Pregnancy causes fluctuations and changes in your hormones as you grow your baby. These changes can make you more prone to developing yeast infections while pregnant.

Hormonal changes related to your menstrual cycle or contraceptives

Hormonal fluctuations also are at their highest in the days before you start your period, making this the most likely time in your cycle to get a yeast infection. Taking oral contraceptives increases the levels of estrogen in your body, which also ups your risk.

Diabetes

Having diabetes that is poorly controlled or uncontrolled makes you more likely to get yeast infections.

Reduced immunity

If you have a lowered immune system, you’re also at greater risk of yeast infections.

Preventing yeast infections

For most women, making a few simple lifestyle changes can help reduce the odds of getting recurring yeast infections. When you are unwell, avoid taking antibiotics unless absolutely necessary to treat your condition.

Additionally, avoid wearing clothes that are tightly fitted around the crotch area, and choose cotton underwear. When your crotch area becomes wet, such as after swimming or getting sweaty, change to dry clothes as soon as possible.

You should also avoid or minimize your use of hot tubs, bubble baths, and douching.

Treating yeast infections

If you develop a yeast infection, our team at WHASN – NW treats your infection with antifungal or oral medications. If you’re pregnant, our team prescribes topical antifungals safe for your baby.

Yeast infections clear up within three days to two weeks. If treatment doesn’t resolve your infection, you get another yeast infection within a few months, or you’re getting yeast infections regularly, our team can prescribe stronger therapies to stop your infections.

If you have a yeast infection or are struggling with frequent yeast infections, call our office or request an appointment online today.

Expecting Twins? Here’s How Your Prenatal Care Looks a Little Different

Twins bring double the joy and fun of watching them grow. When you’re pregnant with twins, your prenatal care usually looks a bit different than when you’re expecting one baby. Here’s what you need to know about pregnancy with twins.

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Lesser-Known Symptoms of Preeclampsia

One of the most common conditions you can develop that causes a high-risk pregnancy is preeclampsia, which can be dangerous to you and your unborn baby. Discover some of the lesser-known symptoms that might mean you have preeclampsia.

The Truth About Prenatal Vitamins

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Chronic Pain from Endometriosis — Should I Consider a Hysterectomy?

Having endometriosis can mean you experience chronic pain that impacts multiple aspects of your life. Find out if a hysterectomy or another treatment is the best solution to your pain from endometriosis.

6 Ways to Stay Healthy During Pregnancy

During the nine months you’re pregnant, healthy choices aren’t only important for your own health, they’re also essential to your unborn baby’s immediate growth and development. Follow these six tips to stay healthy and thrive during pregnancy.

Treatment of thrush in Moscow – prices at the clinic “Medline-Service”

Thrush is one of the most common gynecological diseases. The name of the disease is familiar to many. Not everyone knows that this develops rarely and passes quickly. Thrush is popularly called candidiasis of the genital organs and the mouth area. This infectious disease. The main features are the selection of white color.

Milkmaid is a colloquial name. Experts call the disease “candidiasis” – from the word Candida – yeast-like fungi, which are present in small quantities on the mucous membranes, in particular – are present in the composition of the vaginal microflora. In men, thrush occurs sporadically, most often as brief observers. The external male genital organs are of little use for the reproduction and life of these fungi.

Causes of thrush in women

Protected thrush is found in the mucous membranes of the mouth and in the vagina in women.
Very rarely it happens in the armpits.

The causative agent of a yeast infection penetrates the mucous membrane of the vagina, mouth from the intestines or during sexual intercourse, and the disease also develops with reduced immunity. The weakening of the body’s natural defenses is a free predisposing factor.

The presence of a yeast fungus on the mucous membrane in small quantities is quite natural, if there are no external manifestations of fungal diseases.
If the level of acidity (pH) of the internal environment of the vagina changes, the level of glucose in the cells rises, then the candidiasis fungi will begin to multiply actively.

Thrush in women can develop at any age, but most often it occurs in the active reproductive period, when menstrual function occurs and female sex hormones are produced. Candidates can become factors:

• long-term treatment with antibacterial drugs;
• hormonal disorders;
• defect of the vaginal mucosa during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures;
• use of flavored lubricants and condoms, as well as poor quality personal care products that contain dyes and other harsh chemical additives;
• endocrine diseases;
• pregnancy;
• wearing tight, uncomfortable underwear;
• chronic inflammatory processes of the urogenital organs;
• venereal infections;
• hypothermia of the body;
• immunosuppression;
• taking corticosteroid drugs.

More recently, the symptoms of thrush were not considered a reason for contacting specialists. Such negligence leads to an exacerbation of other chronic infectious and inflammatory processes, such as cystitis, which also does not occur among women. Today, experts are promoting a responsible attitude to thrush. Long-term vaginal candidiasis leads to a strong weakening of local immunity and a violation of the vaginal microflora, which can provoke other diseases of the gynecological and urological profile.

First signs and symptoms of thrush in women

Of course, thrush can be easily identified by the main clinical manifestations. However, a person cannot determine the presence of other co-infections that do not occur with candidiasis. Therefore, it is better to immediately contact a specialist at the first symptoms of thrush.

The main symptoms of thrush:

• profuse white discharge on mucous membranes;
• genital itching;
• pain in the vulva;
• discomfort during intercourse.

Diagnostic methods for thrush

The main problem is that women try to cope with thrush on their own. But candidiasis is often combined with other dangerous infections that can only be detected through diagnostics.

On examination, the gynecologist notices characteristic changes, his own thrush: redness of the mucous membrane, swelling of the tissues, the appearance of a white cheesy plaque, especially in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bnatural folds. To confirm the diagnosis, the specialist conducts microscopy, ELISA, PCR study.

Treatment of thrush in women

For starters, you should visit a gynecologist. It is necessary to pass some tests, according to the results of which a diagnosis will be made and treatment will be prescribed. Treatment goals for thrush include:

• pathogen detection;
• its destruction;
• prevention of reinfection.
• Treatment of thrush is minimal local. But with a pronounced course of candidiasis, systemic therapy is used. Specialists use the following groups of tools:
• antifungal, antimicrobial or combined preparations (suppositories, douches, tampons, tablets;
• antifungals by mouth (individual dosage is very important here).
• products and dietary supplements that increase immunity.

First of all, the causes of the development of diseases. If violations of the relationship of sex hormones are expected, hormonal correction is required. Sometimes women need advice from an endocrinologist and other highly specialized specialists.

The main treatments for thrush remain antifungal drugs, which can be produced in the form of tablets, capsules, suppositories, creams and gels. Topical application of funds is prescribed for a mild degree of candidiasis. Experts recommend antifungal drugs in tablet form. Many modern remedies that are prescribed for the symptoms of thrush are highly effective.

Features of the treatment of chronic thrush

Treatment of chronic thrush requires priority research. It is necessary to assess the state of the intestinal microflora and the activity of the immune system. In addition to local drugs, medications are prescribed that have a systemic effect and destroy pathogenic fungi in the body.

Effective treatment of vaginal candidiasis requires consideration of sexual partners in women. Some sexually transmitted infections in women are asymptomatic. If concomitant diseases of the urogenital tract are not treated, then the main focus is on the symptoms.

Prevention of thrush

Prevention of the appearance of signs of the mammary gland in women is to eliminate the symptoms of gynecological diseases and timely detection of identified pathologies.

The main recommendations for the prevention of vaginal candidaosis:

Use serious cotton underwear. It will not facilitate the penetration of the necessary air into the skin. These are very good conditions for the reproduction of fungi.

When using various types of chemicals, it is necessary to choose products that are water-soluble, free of fragrances and chemicals.

In the event of an allergic reaction to condoms, stop using them immediately. You can try using polyurethane contraceptives. If the symptoms do not disappear, it is necessary to go to the doctor.

In case of casual sexual intercourse, it is mandatory to use a condom.

Keep your genitals and underwear clean. Natural secretions contain opportunistic pathogens, with an increase in the number of multiplying fungi and a protective inflammatory reaction.

Ovarian cysts and your sex life – Sexual Health

Sexual Health

Source: Flickr / Mr Asta

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Do you feel lethargic? Still starting to flare up acne after you’re done with it? Grow hair where hair is not allowed to grow? And… how is your sex life? It could be PCOS.

I have PCOS: polycystic ovary syndrome. Basically, my ovaries look like Swiss cheese (My OBGYN helpfully called it “Swiss cheese syndrome”. She may or may not be joking). They are greatly enlarged and filled with follicles containing unfertilized eggs that never ruptured during ovulation and then turned into cysts.

Not all PCOS sufferers will actually have polycystic ovaries (yes, it’s a little confusing), but they tend to share a set of criteria that usually includes ovarian cysts because PCOS is a female endocrine disorder. This means that it is caused by hormones. And let me tell you, hormones can really ruin your day.

Female Biology 101

Here’s a quick lesson in female biology. Our ovaries should produce:

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• Estrogen (female hormone)
• Testosterone (male hormone) and
• progesterone (pregnancy hormone)

for those who suffer from PCO, estrogen can be produced in low or normal amounts, while the testosterone is produced in excessive amounts . Progesterone, which is normally produced during ovulation, is not produced at all. It is an imbalance in the ratio of estrogen to testosterone that causes many of the symptoms of PCOS.

Doctors are not sure why some women develop PCOS. For some, this can run in the family. Weight gain can also cause this. And sometimes there is simply no clear reason why someone suffers from PCOS. But it’s fairly common, affecting up to 15 percent of the female population. Of course, one of the side effects that some doctors mention is that it can kill your sex drive.

I was lucky to be free of some of the common symptoms of PCOS, such as hirsutism and acne, but I spent years in agony not understanding what was happening to my own body – and my sex life.

There are several reasons why PCOS has this common sexual side effect. First, balanced hormones are vital to your libido, especially the balance between male and female hormones. Also, PCOS sufferers may have to deal with things like ruptured cysts; they feel like appendicitis and are often accompanied by bleeding. Even if you want to have sex, it can be too painful. Or at the very least, you will be afraid enough of possible pain to avoid it. (Get more tips on how to avoid painful sex when sick’ >

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How to win a battle with your body

I know it sounds pretty dark, but hang in there. There are what you can do to reduce pain and bring pleasure back to the bedroom. Here are a few things that worked for me.

Think about your timing
The pain associated with PCOS tends to coincide with your cycle. You need to be as careful as possible when you are menstruating.

Choose a Painless Position
Experiment with the positions to see which ones are most comfortable for you. Generally speaking, avoid being directly over your partner – even a small angle makes a big difference. I don’t know if this is for everyone, but positions like the reverse cowgirl really hurt me, even in times when cysts aren’t that bad.

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Stuffed stick
Avoid very hard sex toys such as glass, wood and metal when playing with a partner. The lack of flexibility in these toys makes them very unforgiving when they hit a sore spot.

Lube Up
Use plenty of lubricant. I personally like silicone lube as it doesn’t need to be reapplied, but others prefer water based lubes. Either way, choose one that does not contain glycerin. Glycerin may contribute to yeast infection; you don’t need more problems, trust me! When you’re in pain or anxiety, your vagina won’t lubricate itself as efficiently or effectively—lubrication can be your best friend in this situation. (For more information on choosing a lubricant, see the Weaknesses of Sexual Lubricants section.)

Don’t go through
If you feel a sharp stabbing pain during sex, stop. Don’t turn on. This pain will turn into a dull, throbbing pain that can stay with you for hours or even days.

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Don’t forget the prelude
Prelude! It is great for relaxing the body and reduces pain during sex. Plus it’s fun! (Learn more from 10 things you didn’t know about foreplay.)

Orgasm
If you can orgasm before penetration, it will greatly reduce the pain you may experience during sex. If you can’t, fear not – all of the suggestions above will help you have better, more enjoyable, and less painful sex.

Live better, love better

Another important aspect here is managing PCOS in your daily life. This will improve not only your sex life, but your overall quality of life, not to mention your future health. Managing weight gain is often a major part of this.