subject: Helpful Yeast Infection Prevention Tips [print this page] Yeast infections are commonly caused by a yeast-like fungus called Candida Albicans. This fungus can be in and on our bodies particularly where the location is warm and moist, for example, the vagina. Most of the time it doesn't cause us any harm, but when the fungus over-grows out of control then the result is a yeast infection.
Knowing this, preventing yeast infections is not all that difficult to do if you know what steps to take. Here are some simple yeast prevention tips for you to consider:-
1. Wear Breathable Underwear
Avoid wearing underwear manufactured from synthetic materials such as Lycra and Nylon. Because these don't allow the vaginal area to 'breathe,' moisture and heat can be trapped which we know are exactly the conditions that the fungus loves. So wear cotton underwear to help keep the area dry and cool.
2. Avoid Tight Underwear and Clothing
The reason behind this is the same as above: tight clothing traps moisture and doesn't allow the area to breathe. So don't wear tight underpants or pantyhose and never wear pantyhose without cotton underpants underneath. Don't wear too tight jeans or trousers for the same reasons.
3. Don't Wear Bottoms in Bed
If possible, it's also better not to wear underpants or pyjama bottoms in bed. By sleeping without any bottoms or even wearing a nightdress you are helping to keep the vaginal area drier and cooler.
4. Remove Damp / Wet Wear As Soon As Possible
After working out or swimming get your training gear and swimwear off right away. Have a shower, dry off thoroughly (especially the vaginal area) and change into clean dry wear. Remember that moist conditions encourages fungal overgrowth.
5. Hygiene
Yeast resides in the intestines and can easily appear in your rectum so, after the toilet, always wipe from front to back, never from back to front, to prevent transferring the yeast to your vaginal area.
6. Stay Away From Feminine Hygiene Products
Another issue that can help the Candida fungus to proliferate is skin that has been inflamed or irritated in some way. This is a risk with using perfumed feminine hygiene products as the perfume can irritate the skin. So avoid things like perfumed sprays, panty liners, toilet paper, tampons and pads.
7. Stop Douching
Your vagina has protective mucous and a pH level that helps to keep it healthy. Douching, especially with perfumed products, can strip the mucous away and upset the natural pH balance. This is another trigger for Candida growth leading to yeast infection. So avoid douching.
8. Avoid Petroleum Based Lubrication Products
Products such as petroleum jelly are byproducts of oil which can help to encourage the yeast. So, when using a lubrication product during sexual intercourse, always go for the water based alternative.
These tips can certainly help to prevent yeast infection and are not that difficult to do. The key thing is to do all that you can to deny the Candida yeast-fungus the bodily environment that it loves to thrive in.
