Easy Steps In Preventing Vaginal Yeast Infections
The majority of women will have a yeast infection at some point in their lives. While it is not a serious condition, it can cause some discomfort for a few days. The organism that causes such infections, known as Candida, is usually present to some extent in the body. It is only when conditions are right for it to multiply to a higher level that the symptoms of infection will be experienced. Fortunately, preventing vaginal yeast infections using simple measures can be quite effective.
Yeast thrive in a moist environment, and may increase rapidly in such a condition, causing an infection. For this reason, wearing cotton underwear is an excellent choice, especially under pantyhose. Unlike synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester, cotton is a natural fiber, and allows for greater air circulation, avoiding excess moisture accumulation. Also, do not keep a wet bathing suit on after swimming because it can trap excess moisture next to the body.
General cleanliness is always a good habit, and this is especially true for the genital area. It is advisable to shower or have a bath regularly, and to dry thoroughly afterward. Also quite important is wiping properly after a bowel movement. Wiping from front to back will avoid possible contamination with microbes, including yeast, which may be present in fecal matter.
Taking antibiotics can destroy the friendly microbes in the vagina that normally keep the Candida yeast under control. For this reason, it is advisable to only take antibiotics when your doctor recommends them, and only for as long as they are prescribed. It is also possible that eating yogurt daily can help to restore the microbial balance during or after taking antibiotics, since yogurt contains friendly bacteria that can control yeast growth.
Vaginal irritation and friction may set the stage for a yeast infection to develop when conditions are right. Therefore, it is advisable to use a lubricant if vaginal dryness is making you uncomfortable, particularly during sex. However, avoid petroleum-based lubricants, which may be irritating and cause excess moisture retention. A water-based lubricant, when needed, is preferable.
Another preventative measure is to avoid using bath products or powder in the vaginal area that are perfumed, as this may be irritating. Any irritation in this area may allow yeast to multiply and produce an infection. Likewise, avoid douching, as it destroys the natural protective mucous lining of the vaginal, allowing yeast to take over.
If you have a diabetic condition, it is very important in general to control your blood sugar levels. In particular, one of the things affected by blood sugar levels is the likelihood of infections of many kinds, including yeast infections. Keeping blood sugar in the proper range will help decrease the chances of developing a yeast infection.
In general, preventing vaginal yeast infections involves keeping the vaginal area as clean and dry as possible. This is important so that any yeast present do not have the right environment to multiply out of control and become a problem. The other component of prevention is avoiding irritation from friction, perfumed products, and douches. It may not be possible to avoid yeast infections completely, but these practices may help minimize their occurrence.
Why would you want to sit there and deal with that yeast infection when we have yeast infection home remedies that you can use? The yeast infection home remedy you are in need of is on our website and it will help relieve that itching and dryness you are experiencing.
