How to Prevent Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are a common problem, that affect nearly three out of every four women at least once in their lifetime, with most of them having recurrent incidences of the infection. Yeast is a fungus which is also scientifically referred to as Candida. The specific type of fungus that is most commonly responsible for vaginal yeast infections is Candida albicans. Although yeast is commonly present on normal human skin, it is in the areas of moisture, such as the mouth and vagina, that it thrives the most. It is estimated that nearly 20% to 50% of healthy women normally carry yeast in the vaginal area.

Vaginal yeast infections occur when yeast is introduced into the vaginal area or when there is a marked increase in the quantity of yeast already present in the vagina, relative to the quantity of normal bacteria. It can be caused by a variety of reasons, including tight clothing, certain feminine products, pregnancy, diabetes, and the use of certain medications. They can also occur as a result of injury to the vagina due to chemotherapy. It is also observed that women with suppressed immune systems develop vaginal yeast infections more frequently than women with normal immunity. Most of the times, it is accompanied by itching in the vaginal area, along with a burning sensation, soreness and vaginal discharge. There are many ways to prevent yeast infections

Tips for Preventing Yeast Infections

Tip #1: It is vital that after showering or swimming, you clean and dry the vaginal area, as a moist environment can encourage the growth of yeast. Change the wet and sweaty clothes immediately after swimming or exercising.

Tip #2: Tight clothing such as figure hugging jeans, nylon panties, pantyhose, or clothes made of synthetic materials, such as polyester, provide a tight, moist environment which aids the growth of the yeast. Instead of nylon and Lycra panties which tap the air and create a breeding ground for yeast, wear white cotton panties.

Tip #3: Avoid using feminine hygiene products such as feminine sprays and bubble baths which can be irritating to the vagina.

Tip #4: Avoid the use of scented or colored toilet paper, tampons, pads, or panty liners, as these products can be irritating to the vagina. Instead, opt for the unscented pads and tampons during the menstrual cycle and use unscented white toilet paper.

Tip #5: Using hormonal birth control pills on and off, can result in fluctuations that can mess with the pH. This makes it more likely to experience a flair-up in yeast, thus causing an infection.

Tip #6: Avoid douching, as it can flush away the natural bacteria and organisms which keep the natural balance of the pH levels.

Tip #7: Do not use petroleum based products for lubrication during sexual intercourse, as it may result in the yeast infections.

Tip #8: The use of yogurt to prevent yeast infections is quite popular. Eat yogurt that contains live cultures of lactobacilius acidophilis to prevent yeast infections. This however will not cure a yeast infection.

Tip #9: It is believed that increased sugar levels in your body causes yeast to grow faster. You should avoid drinking alcohol and consuming processed foods that are high in sugar.

Tip #10: Antibiotics and yeast infections have a strange relation with some antibiotics being used to treat yeast infections. However, consuming excessive amounts of antibiotics can also cause yeast infections and therefore, you should only use them when absolutely necessary.

Fighting off the yeast infections using these preventive measures, can relieve a woman from the hassles of the infection. It can also help relieve the woman of all the pain, inconvenience and embarrassment that a yeast infection can cause.