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Tips to Avoid a Yeast Infection

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Infographic: Tips to Avoid a Yeast Infection Infographic: Tips to Avoid a Yeast Infection

Don’t Stay in a Wet Swimsuit

Rinse off and change immediately. Wearing a wet suit leaves a residue of pool chemicals on your skin and the moisture promotes the imbalance of bacteria in the vagina and vulva.

Remove Sweaty Exercise Clothes

Rather than staying in your sweaty clothes post-workout, hop in the shower and put on fresh clothes.

Skip Strong Cleansers

Douches, antibacterial soaps, and feminine sprays and powders promise a squeaky clean body, but these products can alter a woman’s bacterial balance and cause chemical dermatitis. The vulva and vagina don’t need soap, water is just fine.

Don’t Wash Away the Good Bacteria

Use paraben-free, dye-free hypoallergenic soaps or gentle cleansers meant for babies. If your skin is irritated, you can use an ointment like Vaseline or Aquaphor to soothe the area.

Cut Back on Sugar

Minimize foods high in sugar which may increase the risk of yeast infections. Swap sugary foods and drinks, such as soda and pastries, for healthier choices, like unsweetened iced tea or fresh fruit salad.

Consider a Probiotic

Lactobacillus is a bacteria that is part of a healthy vaginal flora. It can be found in probiotic supplements or in some foods such as yogurt. Avoid yogurts high in sugar or added sweeteners.

Pay Attention to Preexisting Health Conditions

Certain conditions may make you more prone to yeast infections including:

  • Diabetes
  • Compromised immune systems
  • Pregnancy

Certain diabetes medications can also increase your risk of getting a yeast infection.

Don’t Self-Diagnose

Some infections may simply be skin discomfort due to a chemical irritant or a change in discharge before menstruation. Over-the-counter yeast infection treatments can disrupt the balance of vaginal flora if you don’t have a yeast infection. This can increase the growth of yeast that is resistant to treatment.

Contact Your Healthcare Provider

If you experience vaginal irritation, your practitioner can identify the source of your irritation. They may diagnose a different type of infection or a skin condition of the vulva.

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