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What prevents yeast infections. 10 Effective Ways to Prevent Yeast Infections: Essential Tips for Vaginal Health

by alexxlab

How can you prevent yeast infections naturally. What are the most effective strategies for avoiding candidal vulvovaginitis. Which lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of vaginal yeast overgrowth. What should you know about yeast infection prevention and treatment.

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Understanding Yeast Infections: Causes and Risk Factors

Yeast infections, medically known as candidal vulvovaginitis, are a common issue affecting many women. These infections occur when there’s an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus naturally present in our bodies. While yeast infections can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, understanding their causes and risk factors is the first step in prevention.

Several factors can increase your susceptibility to yeast infections:

  • Pregnancy
  • Diabetes
  • Weakened immune system
  • Antibiotic use
  • High-estrogen birth control
  • Use of douches or vaginal sprays

Are certain women more prone to yeast infections? Indeed, about 75% of women will experience at least one yeast infection in their lifetime, with half experiencing two or more. While it may not be possible to prevent all yeast infections, there are several strategies you can employ to reduce your risk significantly.

The Importance of Proper Hygiene in Yeast Infection Prevention

Maintaining good hygiene practices is crucial in preventing yeast infections. However, it’s essential to strike a balance, as overzealous cleaning can sometimes do more harm than good.

Choose the Right Underwear

Can your choice of underwear really affect your risk of yeast infections? Absolutely. Opt for breathable, cotton underwear. Unlike synthetic materials, cotton doesn’t trap heat or moisture, helping to keep the vaginal area dry and less hospitable to yeast overgrowth.

Avoid Tight-Fitting Clothes

Tight clothes can increase body temperature and moisture around your private parts, creating an environment conducive to yeast growth. Ensure your jeans, skirts, yoga pants, and other garments allow for adequate air circulation.

Say No to Douching

Why is douching discouraged? Douches and other “feminine hygiene products” can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in your vagina. By removing some of the good bacteria that naturally fight off infections, these products can inadvertently increase your risk of yeast infections.

Practice Proper Wiping Technique

Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. This simple habit can prevent the spread of bacteria from the anal area to the vagina, reducing the risk of various infections, including yeast infections.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Yeast Infections

Beyond hygiene practices, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of developing yeast infections.

Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture

How does moisture affect yeast growth? Yeast thrives in warm, damp environments. To minimize risk:

  • Change out of wet bathing suits or damp workout clothes promptly
  • Avoid prolonged soaks in hot tubs
  • Limit time spent in extra hot baths

Manage Your Health Conditions

If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar levels under control can help prevent yeast infections. Uncontrolled diabetes can increase glucose levels in vaginal secretions, providing more fuel for yeast growth.

The Role of Diet in Yeast Infection Prevention

Your diet can play a significant role in preventing yeast infections. Certain foods can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your body, while others may promote yeast growth.

Incorporate Probiotics

How can probiotics help prevent yeast infections? Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help maintain a healthy balance in your vaginal microbiome. Consider incorporating yogurt with active cultures into your diet. These good bacteria can help your body control yeast growth naturally.

Limit Sugar Intake

Yeast feeds on sugar, so a diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can potentially increase your risk of yeast infections. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks.

Antibiotic Use and Yeast Infections: What You Need to Know

While antibiotics are crucial in treating bacterial infections, they can also increase your risk of developing a yeast infection. Understanding this connection can help you take preventive measures.

Use Antibiotics Judiciously

Why do antibiotics increase the risk of yeast infections? Antibiotics don’t just kill harmful bacteria; they can also eliminate the beneficial bacteria that keep yeast growth in check. Use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Remember, antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like colds or flu.

Consider Probiotic Supplementation

If you must take antibiotics, consider supplementing with probiotics. This can help replenish the good bacteria in your body and potentially reduce your risk of developing a yeast infection.

Menstrual Hygiene and Yeast Infection Prevention

Your menstrual cycle can impact your susceptibility to yeast infections. Proper menstrual hygiene is crucial in prevention.

Change Feminine Products Frequently

During your period, change tampons, pads, and panty liners often. Menstrual blood can change the pH of your vagina, potentially creating an environment more conducive to yeast growth.

Choose Unscented Products

Opt for unscented menstrual products. Scented tampons, pads, and panty liners can irritate the vaginal area and disrupt the natural balance, potentially increasing your risk of infection.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Yeast Infections

While prevention is key, it’s equally important to know when to seek medical attention for potential yeast infections.

Recognize the Symptoms

What are the common symptoms of a yeast infection? Look out for:

  • Itching or soreness in the vaginal area
  • Unusual vaginal discharge
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Burning sensation during urination

Consult a Healthcare Provider

If you experience these symptoms, especially if it’s your first yeast infection, consult a healthcare provider. They can confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment. Remember, these symptoms can also indicate other conditions, so professional evaluation is crucial.

Recurrent Infections

If you experience frequent yeast infections (four or more in a year), it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying causes and develop a more comprehensive prevention and treatment plan.

Natural Remedies and Supplements for Yeast Infection Prevention

While medical treatments are often necessary for active yeast infections, several natural remedies and supplements may help in prevention.

Garlic

Garlic has natural antifungal properties. Including fresh garlic in your diet or taking garlic supplements may help prevent yeast overgrowth.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains caprylic acid, which has antifungal properties. While more research is needed, some people find that including coconut oil in their diet or applying it topically can help prevent yeast infections.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has antifungal properties and may help prevent yeast infections when used in diluted form. However, it should never be applied directly to the vaginal area without proper dilution and guidance from a healthcare provider.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C can help boost your immune system, which in turn can help your body fight off yeast overgrowth. Consider increasing your intake of vitamin C-rich foods or taking a supplement.

It’s important to note that while these natural remedies may be helpful in prevention, they are not substitutes for medical treatment of active yeast infections. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

The Connection Between Stress and Yeast Infections

While often overlooked, stress can play a significant role in your susceptibility to yeast infections. Understanding this connection can help you take a more holistic approach to prevention.

How Stress Affects Your Immune System

Can stress really increase your risk of yeast infections? Indeed, chronic stress can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to maintain the delicate balance of microorganisms in your vaginal area. When your immune system is compromised, opportunistic organisms like Candida can overgrow, leading to a yeast infection.

Stress Management Techniques

Incorporating stress management techniques into your daily routine can help boost your overall health and potentially reduce your risk of yeast infections. Consider practices such as:

  • Regular exercise
  • Meditation or mindfulness practices
  • Adequate sleep
  • Yoga or tai chi
  • Deep breathing exercises

The Importance of Self-Care

Prioritizing self-care isn’t just about relaxation; it’s an essential part of maintaining your overall health, including vaginal health. Make time for activities you enjoy, maintain social connections, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re struggling with chronic stress or anxiety.

The Role of Sexual Health in Yeast Infection Prevention

While yeast infections are not typically considered sexually transmitted infections, sexual activity can influence your risk. Understanding the connection between sexual health and yeast infections can help you take appropriate preventive measures.

Practice Safe Sex

Using condoms during sexual intercourse can help prevent the spread of yeast infections between partners. This is particularly important if your partner has symptoms of a yeast infection.

Maintain Good Hygiene Before and After Intercourse

Urinating before and after sexual activity can help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse. Also, gently cleaning the genital area after sex can help maintain a healthy pH balance.

Communicate with Your Partner

If you’re prone to yeast infections, it’s important to communicate this with your sexual partner. They should be aware of the symptoms and seek treatment if necessary to prevent passing the infection back and forth.

The Impact of Hormonal Changes on Yeast Infections

Hormonal fluctuations can significantly influence your susceptibility to yeast infections. Understanding these connections can help you take proactive steps in prevention.

Menstrual Cycle

Many women experience an increased risk of yeast infections just before or during their menstrual period. This is due to the hormonal changes that occur during this time, which can alter the vaginal pH and create an environment more conducive to yeast growth.

Pregnancy

Why are pregnant women more susceptible to yeast infections? During pregnancy, hormonal changes can disrupt the vaginal flora, increasing the risk of yeast overgrowth. If you’re pregnant, it’s especially important to maintain good hygiene and consult your healthcare provider if you suspect a yeast infection.

Menopause

The hormonal changes associated with menopause can also increase your risk of yeast infections. Decreased estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness and changes in pH, potentially creating an environment more favorable to yeast growth.

Birth Control

Some forms of hormonal birth control, particularly those with high estrogen levels, can increase your risk of yeast infections. If you’re prone to yeast infections and use hormonal birth control, discuss alternative options with your healthcare provider.

Understanding these hormonal influences can help you anticipate periods of increased risk and take extra preventive measures during these times. Remember, while hormonal changes can increase your susceptibility, maintaining good hygiene practices and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in preventing yeast infections.

Environmental Factors and Yeast Infection Prevention

Your environment can play a significant role in your risk of developing yeast infections. Being aware of these factors can help you make informed choices to reduce your risk.

Climate Considerations

How does climate affect your risk of yeast infections? Warm, humid environments can promote yeast growth. If you live in a hot, humid climate, you may need to take extra precautions to keep the vaginal area dry and cool.

Swimming and Hot Tubs

While swimming is a healthy activity, prolonged exposure to water, especially in chlorinated pools or hot tubs, can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Always change out of wet swimwear promptly and consider using a probiotic supplement during swimming season.

Clothing Choices

Your clothing choices can significantly impact your risk of yeast infections. Opt for breathable fabrics, especially for underwear and workout clothes. Avoid sitting for long periods in wet or sweaty clothes, and change out of damp clothing as soon as possible.

Laundry Practices

Use mild, unscented detergents for your underwear and avoid fabric softeners, which can irritate the sensitive vaginal area. Consider washing underwear separately from other clothing to prevent the spread of any potential pathogens.

By being mindful of these environmental factors and making appropriate adjustments, you can create an environment less conducive to yeast overgrowth, thereby reducing your risk of infections.

10 Ways to Prevent Candidal Vulvovaginitis

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Neha Pathak, MD on September 20, 2021

If you’re like 75% of women, you’ll get at least one yeast infection during your lifetime. Half will get two or more.

You’re more likely to get one when you:

  • Are pregnant
  • Have diabetes
  • Have a weakened immune system
  • Take antibiotics
  • Use birth control with high doses of the hormone estrogen
  • Use douches or vaginal sprays

It may not be possible for all women to prevent yeast infections, but here’s what you can do to lower your odds.

  1. Wear breathable underwear. Cotton is your best choice. It doesn’t hold onto heat or moisture. It will help keep you dry.
  2. Keep things loose. Make sure your jeans, skirts, underwear, yoga pants, tights, pantyhose, etc. aren’t too snug. They can boost your body temperature and increase the amount of moisture around your private parts. That raises your chances for a yeast infection.
  3. Don’t douche. “Feminine hygiene products” like douches can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your vagina by removing some of the good bacteria that’s supposed to be there to fight off infections. And skip the scent in feminine products. This includes bubble baths, soaps, sprays, tampons, and pads.
  4. Avoid hot tubs and extra hot baths. Hot and damp are never your friends.
  5. Change out of wet clothes. Don’t sit in a wet bathing suit after you go swimming or damp workout gear after the gym. Change into dry clothes right away.
  6. In the bathroom, always wipe from front to back.
  7. When on your period, change your tampons, pads, and panty liners often.
  8. Manage your diabetes. If you have it, be sure to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels and keep them under control.
  9. Use antibiotics only when you have to. You don’t need them for conditions like a cold, because they don’t do anything against a virus. If you don’t have to, don’t take them.
  10. Eat yogurt that contains active cultures to add to the good bacteria that help your body control yeast.

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9 ways to prevent yeast infections

Learn how to prevent yeast infection with practices like better hydration, probiotic consumption, and vitamin supplementation

Yeast infection prevention | Risk factors | When to see a doctor

Yeast infections are a really common thing that no one really wants to talk about. Why? Well… women just don’t want to. It’s uncomfortable, maybe even embarrassing. Vaginal itching and discharge or pain during intercourse aren’t exactly dinner table topics. But the truth is- yeast infections really are very common. In fact, the CDC reports that they are the second most common type of vaginal infection in women and result in 1.4 million outpatient doctor visits every year. 

Why are yeast infections so common and where do they come from? Yeast infections are an overgrowth of a common fungus we all have on our skin known as Candida. It’s on our skin, in our mouth, in our pelvic region, and basically everywhere to some extent. Certain body conditions or changes may allow an overgrowth of this type of fungus, and that overgrowth in the vaginal area is known as vaginal candidiasis or vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Vaginal candidiasis can present with varying symptoms which may include vaginal itching or soreness, vaginal discharge, pain during intercourse, or pain during urination. These symptoms of a yeast infection are typically mild, but if left untreated, can become severe and cause redness, irritation, swelling, and cracks in the vaginal wall. These symptoms can be indicative of other bacterial conditions or sexually transmitted infections as well, so it’s important to contact your health care provider to make sure it’s not something else.

While yeast infections are common and can occur in anyone, some people are more susceptible. Pregnant women and those who have diabetes are more likely to experience an overgrowth of vaginal yeast. Patients who take hormonal birth control pills, steroids, chemotherapy, or who have a weakened immune system may also be more susceptible. Patients who have recently taken a course of antibiotics are also very susceptible too as the normal bacterial and fungal balance of the body is normally upset by a course of antibiotics.

RELATED: Can men get yeast infections? 

9 ways to prevent yeast infections

There are a number of ways to prevent a yeast infection.

1. Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use

Antibiotics can kill off the healthy bacteria in the vagina, causing an overgrowth of yeast, thus leading to a yeast infection. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. It is important to only take antibiotics as directed by your doctor and only for the prescribed length of time. If you have a known history of yeast infections after antibiotic use, discuss yeast infection treatment options at the time you start the antibiotic therapy so that you will be prepared.

2. Wear cotton underwear

Loose-fitting, cotton underwear is most conducive to a healthy microbiome. Avoid garments that are tight and aren’t as breathable, as well as things like sweaty workout wear. These clothes can create a humid, damp area, which is the ideal environment for Candida overgrowth. Because of this, it is also important to change out of damp or sweaty clothes, like workout clothes or swimwear, quickly.

3. Avoid hot tubs and scalding hot baths

Hot water can foster Candida growth, due to the warm, moist environments. It can also harm the integrity of the skin, making you more prone to sensitive skin conditions.

4. Take probiotics or eat yogurt with probiotics 

Probiotics help balance the gastrointestinal and vaginal microflora. As well as treatment for yeast infections, probiotics are helpful in the prevention of yeast infections. They replace the good bacteria in the digestive tract and other parts of the body to restore balance. The best probiotic to take will be with those containing the Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 bacteria. 

5. Practice good hygiene

Avoid behaviors that may lead to yeast infections, such as poor hygiene. When performing personal hygiene practices, avoid douching, scented vaginal washes or scented lotions, as well as perfumed sanitary products near the genitals, which can throw off the balance of the vagina’s microflora.

6. Avoid sugary and processed foods 

Yeast grows from sugar, so this can cause a surplus of yeast growth. This includes foods high in natural yeast as well such as bread, cheese, fruit, and alcoholic drinks. By not providing yeast its natural food and energy source, you are essentially starving it away.

7. Incorporate foods which are known to inhibit yeast

Eating at least a half cup of yogurt daily can help inhibit yeast overgrowth. Garlic is also a well known natural remedy to yeast, so incorporating that into your diet can be helpful. Cranberry juice or cranberry pill forms may also be helpful at preventing yeast infections. Apple cider vinegar has also been shown to prevent the growth of Candida.

8. Vitamin C strengthens the body’s natural immunity

Vitamin C is a good vitamin for anyone because it boosts your body’s immune system against many opportunistic infections, including Candida. Those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to yeast infection.

9. Stay hydrated

Drink enough water to maintain healthy skin membranes in the vaginal area, oral cavity, and elsewhere to prevent opportunistic infections of yeast, bacteria, and other organisms

What increases my risk of getting a yeast infection?

Chances are, a woman will get a vaginal yeast infection at some point in her lifetime. In fact, it is estimated that about 70% of women experience at least one in their life. Most of these, nine out of 10 in fact, will be due to a specific strain of Candida known as Candida albicans. Unfortunately, about 8% of women will have recurrent yeast infections, meaning they will continue to suffer from them repeatedly to some extent. It’s hard to track the exact incidence of vaginal yeast infections, because there are many over-the-counter treatments which are effective cures. Thus many of vaginal yeast infections are often under-reported because many women never go to the doctor to seek diagnosis or treatment.

There are some things that put you at a higher risk of getting yeast infections, whether just once or repeatedly. These can include but may not be limited to:

  • Pregnancy
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes Mellitus (high blood sugar)
  • Immunocompromised status (HIV/AIDS/post-transplant)
  • Broad-spectrum antibiotic use
  • Wearing tight clothing which does not allow good air flow to the pelvic area
  • Frequent shaving of the pelvic region
  • Sitting or being inactive for too long in wet clothing or wet bathing suits
  • Bad hygiene habits

There are some common myths around vaginal yeast infections as well. They are not a sexually transmitted infection or sexually transmitted disease, even though sexually active females are more likely to get them. Yeast infections can occur in other places such as the mouth or even in your bloodstream and be life threatening. Having a yeast infection does not mean you are “unclean,” but you may need to make adjustments in your hygiene routine and products.

When to see a doctor

Vaginal yeast infections, which may be referred to as Candida vulvovaginitis, can be managed by different types of healthcare practitioners including gynecologists, family care providers, primary care providers, or urgent care providers. Typically, they are treated with azole antifungal medications that are either OTC or prescriptions and symptoms resolve in just a few days. 

While yeast infections can be treated OTC many times, there are many scenarios where you should check in with your provider first to make sure treatment is appropriate and that the symptoms you are experiencing aren’t actually indicative of something else, like bacterial vaginosis for instance. This allows for your health care provider to give the best medical advice and best treatment plan. Be sure to disclose all health problems and previous treatments, including sexual health.

If you think your symptoms are consistent with a vaginal yeast infection, you should visit with your doctor if one of the following is also true before treating with an OTC product:

  • You are pregnant
  • You are breastfeeding
  • You are the victim of sexual trauma or abuse
  • This is the first time you have experienced these symptoms
  • You have recently completed treatment for a yeast infection and it has returned 

Your doctor may also need to screen for other diagnoses which have similar symptoms like the presence of foreign bodies, malignancies, sexually transmitted diseases, and the presence of harmful bacteria and bacterial infections. Complicated yeast infections or more severe infections which may have caused severe symptoms such as visible redness and swelling of the vulva, and cracking on the vaginal wall, may require longer treatment (one week or longer) with oral prescription drugs.

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