A yeast infection is a highly uncomfortable condition that most women experience at some point in their lives. While yeast is naturally present in the vagina, an infection occurs when there is a yeast overgrowth, which causes several unpleasant symptoms. A yeast infection is not considered dangerous to a woman's health, but most women want to get the infection under control as soon as possible in order to get relief from the symptoms. If you have had a yeast infection in the past and want to prevent getting one in the future, use the following tips:
Make Sure You're Actually Dealing with a Yeast Infection
If you suspected a yeast infection and treated it with over the counter medication but the symptoms did not subside or they reappeared shortly after concluding treatment, it is a good idea to visit your gynecologist to ensure that you are dealing with a yeast infection. There are several other types of vaginal infections that have some of the same symptoms as a yeast infection, but they require a different type of treatment.
It may also be possible that your yeast infection is caused by a type of yeast that is not susceptible to over the counter yeast infection medications. If this is the case, your gynecologist can prescribe a medication to get rid of your yeast infection.
Stay Dry
Yeast is a type of fungus, and it can grow rapidly in warm, damp places. You can help prevent recurrent yeast infections by carefully drying your genital area completely after showering and before putting on underwear or clothing. Likewise, change out of a wet swimsuit as quickly as possible after swimming and do the same with sweaty clothing after a work out.
Avoid Scented Feminine Hygiene Products
There is a delicate balance of good bacteria and yeast inside the vaginal canal, and introducing scented feminine hygiene products to this environment can wreak havoc on this environment and lead to a yeast overgrowth and eventually an infection. In addition to avoiding scented feminine hygiene products, refrain from using douches.
Wear Loose Clothing
Tight pants or leggings are not the best clothing choice if you want to avoid a yeast infection. These types of garments restrict airflow to the genital area, which can lead to trapped heat and sweating in the genital area creating the perfect environment for yeast to thrive and overgrow. Stick to looser styles of pants, shorts, dresses, and skirts.