Every woman should know about yeast infections. Perhaps you’ve had one in the past. Knowing the symptoms, treatments and causes of yeast infections is important whether you have had one or not. The following are some great ways to handle a yeast infection.
Sweating a lot can create a humid and warm environment. Moist, wet environments encourage yeast growth. Clothing that is made of natural things like cotton should be worn. Natural fabrics can breathe quite well and that helps keep moisture caused by sweat from building up. Anything like spandex can cause major issues. These materials contribute to a damp, humid environment.
Avoid scented and potentially irritating products. Many women use body scrubs and douches in their vaginal area. These products can actually irritate the vagina and upset the natural balance. You end up more vulnerable to acquiring a yeast infection. Only use soap intended for your vagina.
Find out how any medications you are using may interact with your birth control. These creams can interfere with birth control. Instead, opt to abstain from sexual activity until your infection has run its course. If you choose to be sexually active anyway, speak to a doctor and ask about effective birth control during this time.
Take a bath with a couple of cups of apple cider vinegar added to the water. Vinegar helps naturally balance the pH levels of your vagina; thus diminishing the yeast. Do not spend hours in your bath. If you prefer to douche, mix 3 tbsp. of cider vinegar with one quart of water.
Try adding yogurt to your diet. Eat yogurt if you begin to feel an itching or burning feeling, which can be a symptom of yeast infections. Yogurt contains acidophilus cultures, which are healthy bacteria. When you have a wealth of healthy bacteria throughout your genital tract, your body has the defenses it needs to reduce the symptoms and remove the infection.
Cider vinegar can be a very effective, albeit old fashioned way of curing your yeast infection. Dilute the vinegar with water first, then gently apply it to the vaginal area. You shouldn’t use vinegar directly without diluting it. If your itching is severe, you may want to add garlic to the mixture.
Avoid wearing tight clothing made of synthetic fabrics. Tight underwear tends to thwart circulation and trap dampness and heat. Yeast thrives in moist environments with little air circulation. Wear clothing that is loose and made of breathable materials, like cotton for example.
If you get yeast infections frequently, make changes to your diet. Eating too many foods high in sugar makes your body a likely place for yeast infections. Turn to nuts and fruits rather than their sugary alternatives.
Do not use any products that have fragrance in the vaginal area. The chemical compounds found in scented products can alter the natural pH of your vaginal area. That often leads to itching and dryness. This creates a yeast happy environment. Seek out products that do not give off a scent, and also look out for items that do not cause burning and discomfort.
You can transmit a yeast infection to your partner. If you have an infection, wait at least a week after your infection is gone before you have sex again. If you have an oral infection, avoid kissing and wash silverware htoroughly after meals.
Change after you finish swimming to reduce moisture on your skin. Do not sit around in sweaty or wet garments after working out or swimming. Damp environments allow yeast to flourish. Once you have finished exercising, change your clothing as soon as possible. This should include your underwear.
Vaginal yeast infections are more common than oral variants, but oral yeast infections do happen. Always contact your doctor if you think you might have an infection. A warm saltwater rinse can help with the discomfort of this condition. Drinking cold water throughout the day can also be of benefit.
Now that you’ve come to the end of this article, you know how to manage a yeast infection. Regardless of whether or not you have ever had one, being more informed about them is a good thing.