Yeast infections are a common issue for many women, but the good news is that they are preventable. By taking certain precautions and maintaining good habits, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing one. Here are some essential tips for avoiding a yeast infection.

Ways to Avoid a Yeast Infection

Yeast is opportunistic, which means that it can cause an infection given the right circumstances. However, it’s also a normal part of your vaginal microbiome, so eliminating it entirely would only disturb the ecosystem and invite further problems.

At Riverwalk OB-GYN Women’s Health in San Antonio, our team of experienced health professionals share tips on how to avoid common gynecologic conditions such as yeast infections.

01 | Maintain Proper Hygiene

Good hygiene is key in avoiding a yeast infection. Be sure to wash your intimate areas daily with warm water. Avoid using scented soaps, bubble baths, or harsh feminine hygiene products, as these can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina, making it more susceptible to yeast infections.

02 | Wear Breathable Clothing

Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments, so wearing breathable clothing can help keep the area dry. Opt for cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting pants or synthetic fabrics, which can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for yeast.

03 | Change Out of Wet Clothing Quickly

Staying in wet clothes, such as swimsuits or workout gear, can create a perfect environment for yeast to grow. Be sure to change out of wet or sweaty clothing as soon as possible after exercising or swimming to help avoid a yeast infection.

04 | Adopt a Balanced Diet

Your diet plays a role in maintaining your body’s natural balance. Eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut can help maintain healthy levels of good bacteria, which fight off the overgrowth of yeast. Limiting your intake of sugar and refined carbs is also crucial, as yeast feeds on sugar.

05 | Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotic Use

Antibiotics can kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria in your body. Overuse of antibiotics can upset the natural bacterial balance in your body, which may lead to yeast overgrowth. If you need antibiotics, speak to your doctor about ways to mitigate the risk of developing a yeast infection.

06 | Practice Safe Sex

Unprotected sexual intercourse can sometimes trigger yeast infections. Using condoms can help minimize the risk. If you are prone to yeast infections, consider avoiding the use of flavored or spermicidal condoms, as they can irritate sensitive areas and cause an imbalance in your vaginal flora.

07 | Manage Stress levels

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to keep yeast under control. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to help maintain overall health and avoid imbalances that could lead to a yeast infection.

08 | Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water not only helps keep your body functioning properly but also flushes out toxins and helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria. Staying hydrated can aid in preventing infections, including yeast infections.

09 | Use Probiotics

Taking probiotics, whether in food or as supplements, can support the growth of good bacteria in your body. These beneficial bacteria help keep yeast in check and prevent an overgrowth that could lead to an infection.

10 | Avoid Douching

Douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to an increased risk of yeast infections. The vagina has its own cleaning process, and interfering with this by using douches can create an imbalance, making it easier for yeast to multiply.

Conclusion

Preventing a yeast infection largely involves maintaining a balance in your body’s natural bacteria. It also means practicing good hygiene, and avoiding environments where yeast thrives. By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing a yeast infection and maintain optimal health.

By following these guidelines, you will be actively avoiding a yeast infection while promoting overall well-being.

You may also enjoy reading: 6 Signs You Have Reached Perimenopause