Dealing with a yeast infection for the first time may be frustrating, and even scary. Yeast infections are surprisingly common and needn’t be daunting. That said, it’s a good idea to learn why yeast infections happen and how you can treat them. Keep reading to learn more.
Believe it or not, stress can trigger yeast infections. Stress keeps your immune system from working properly, which means that your body won’t be able to fight off a yeast infection very well.
Douching is a four letter word for a yeast sufferer. While you might think you’re cleaning yourself, your body knows how to naturally stay balanced. Making changes to your natural balance can result in a yeast infection. Normal washing with soap and warm water is all that is required.
If you are employing an anti-fungal cream to treat your yeast infection, avoid using a diaphragm or condom. The creams can decrease the effectiveness of these contraceptives. Stop having sex until the infection is totally gone. If you choose not to do that, talk to a doctor about which birth control is most effective at that time.
Add some sugar free yogurt as well as garlic to your daily diet. Garlic can slow down or prevent yeast infections. Many places now sell garlic pills, or you can add it to your diet. Including sixteen ounces of unsweetened yogurt, with live probiotic cultures, to your diet can significantly minimize occurrences.
If you get yeast infections frequently, make changes to your diet. Sugar, in particular, encourages the growth of yeast. Turn to nuts and fruits rather than their sugary alternatives.
To prevent yeast infections, always wear cotton underwear. Nylon and other synthetic materials hold moisture, which is not good for you. Natural fabrics which are changed frequently are best. This can help you stay healthy and dry.
Change your clothes after exercising or swimming. Do not wear sweaty or wet clothing for long periods of time. Yeast has no problem living in these kinds of places. After you finish working out, put on clean clothes right away. This includes a fresh pair of underwear and not just your outerwear.
Keep your vagina clean, but never douche it. Do not neglect your vagina when showering. Gently clean the area and its folds with soap and water. This will give you the best cleansing possible without irritation. Douching is never necessary and may actually increase the risk of infection.
Birth Control
If you are using a new type of contraception and are now getting yeast infections, the contraceptive could be the problem. Some medications, including birth control pills, contain estrogen at high levels. This can disrupt the natural balance in your vagina. Discuss other forms of birth control with your doctor.
Any scented product should be kept away from your vaginal area. These can all affect the vaginal pH balance, creating an invitation to a yeast infection. They can also block out smells that are symptoms of a yeast infection that need a doctor’s attention.
Always wear breathable underwear in a natural fiber if you are prone to yeast infections. Cotton can absorb humidity so your skin will not itch like it does from other fabrics. If you are struggling with yeast infections frequently, you may want to consider purchasing a different type of underwear. To absorb the humidity, you can use napkins.
Now that you are armed with some great tips and tricks, that next yeast infection won’t stand a chance. There are many things you can do when it comes to this annoying condition. But you know possess the information necessary to handle the situation simply.
