If you are a woman, and even if you aren’t, but you are interested to learn how to avoid yeast infections then this article is just for you. This article is all about the things that can prevent yeast infections in your body.
A vaginal yeast infection is a type of vaginitis, caused by a specific type of yeast called candida. You always have yeast in your body, but when it grows rapidly, you can get an infection. f you’re like 75% of women, you’ll get at least one yeast infection during your lifetime. Half will get two or several times. Though uncomfortable, these infections are common. A vaginal yeast infection is a condition characterized by burning, itching, redness, and a white discharge from the vagina and vulva. These infections are caused by something that’s already in your body—a fungal body (yeast) called candida. Yeast is a type of fungus and candida is a specific type of yeast. When this yeast is balanced with the ecosystem of your body, there are no problems. But when that balance is disrupted, the yeast rapidly grows and you can get a yeast infection.
Vaginal yeast infections are also called vulvovaginal candidiasis or vaginal candidiasis. A vaginal yeast infection is actually a type of vaginitis, a condition where the vagina is swollen, painful and creates a discharge. There are several types of vaginitis—each with similar symptoms—but vaginal yeast infections are one of the most common.
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Why do vaginal yeast infections happen?
The loss of chemical balance in your vagina can cause candida to multiply. This can happen for a lot of reasons, including:
- When you take an antibiotic medication that’s treating an infection of any type—a urinary tract infection (UTI) is one example. While treating this infection, good bacteria in the vagina is killed. This good bacteria was responsible for keeping the yeast in check. Without it, the balance is thrown off, leading to a yeast infection.
- During pregnancy and while using hormonal contraceptives (birth control). Your hormones can be all over the charts during pregnancy. This change in your hormones can disrupt the balance of candida in the vagina.
- If you have diabetes. When you have diabetes, there is too much sugar in your urine and the vagina is impacted by this surplus of sugar.
- Having a weakened immune system. If you have a disease, like HIV or AIDS, your medications can suppress your immune system.
- You can pass a yeast infection to your partner during sex, so communicate clearly with your partner before engaging in intercourse.
- Products like vaginal sprays or douches can change the balance of bacteria in your vagina.
Being aware of the causes of a yeast infection can often help to head them off before symptoms begin. For example, if you know you’ll be taking antibiotics, also take probiotics. This can help keep the bacteria in your vagina balanced.
What are the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection?
There are several tell-tale signs of a vaginal yeast infection. These symptoms can include:
- An itchy sensation in the vagina and vulva.
- A thick, white vaginal discharge with the consistency of cottage cheese.
- Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva.
- Small cuts or tiny cracks in the skin of the vulva because of friable skin in the area.
- A burning feeling when you urinate.
In some cases, another symptom of a vaginal yeast infection can be pain during sex.
How can I prevent vaginal yeast infections?
You often can prevent vaginal yeast infections by making a few lifestyle changes. These changes can include:
- Wear breathable underwear. Cotton is your best choice. It doesn’t hold onto heat or moisture. It will help keep you dry.
- 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.
- 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.
- Avoid hot tubs and extra hot baths. Hot and damp are never your friends.
- 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.
- In the bathroom, always wipe from front to back.
- When on your period, change your tampons, pads, and panty liners often.
- Manage your diabetes. If you have it, be sure to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels and keep them under control.
- 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.
- Eat yogurt that contains active cultures to add to the good bacteria that help your body control yeast.
The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are similar to other conditions. If you have any questions, a physical exam by your healthcare provider will help.
What should I do if I have recurring yeast infections?
If you frequently have yeast infections, you should have a discussion with your healthcare provider. Your provider may:
- Test to confirm that you really have a vaginal yeast infection.
- Get a blood sugar test for diabetes.
- Test for HIV/AIDS.
- Discuss any possible hormonal changes (birth control or pregnancy).
Your healthcare provider will use your test results to make sure you are receiving the right treatment. It can be important to treat the underlying cause while treating your yeast infection. Controlling the reason for the infection can help prevent future vaginal yeast infections.
When to see a doctor?
Even with all of your preventive efforts, you can still get a yeast infection. So when should you see a doctor? You should consider making an appointment if:
- You’re experiencing a yeast infection for the first time
- Your symptoms don’t go away after using over-the-counter antifungal vaginal creams or suppositories
- You’re not sure if you have a yeast infection
- You develop unrelated symptoms
- You have recurrent yeast infections regardless of any preventive efforts
Conclusion
Yeast infections, also known as candida infections, are an uncomfortable affliction for many women. Understanding how to prevent and get rid of a yeast infection is an important step so you do not have to suffer from this infection.