A yeast infection can be one of the most uncomfortable experiences in life of a woman. The itch can be unstoppable until treated. If you have never had one before, it can drive you crazy. You will want to run desperately to a doctor for diagnosis and anything that will make it stop itching. Preventing vaginal yeast infections is better than dealing with one after it starts.
A fungus, known as Candida, is actually yeast. This substance that is used to make beer and bread, is also present regularly on your skin. It is more prevalent in moist areas like your mouth and vagina. It is when the amounts increase beyond a normal level that an infection begins.
A yeast infection should be diagnosed by a doctor. In order to prescribe the appropriate treatment, he or she will determine whether the bacteria causing your discomfort is in fact Candida. Some other infections can show the same symptoms of painful urination, burning, itching, and discomfort during intercourse. There may also be a milky cottage cheese-like discharge and odor. If you want the aggravating problem to go away, prescription topical and oral medicines tend to work faster than over the counter. Even though there are many treatment options, it is best to prevent an infection before it starts.
Look at some of your hygiene practices. If you are using spermicidal lubricants during sexual intercourse or douching after wards, you may increase your risk of yeast infection. Also look in your medicine cabinet. Taking antibiotics for other infections in your body can actually bring about a yeast infection. All of the above can wipe out the good bacteria in your body that normally keeps the proper balance in your vagina between the good and the bad.
Wearing cotton underwear can also help keep down the moisture that increases yeast production and thus an infection. Other fabrics used in underwear do not allow enough air flow to keep you dry. Instead they may trap moisture. Also, when you get out of the bath or shower, towel dry private areas as well as possible.
Avoid spraying perfumes or dropping powder near your vagina. As much as you like to feel fresh and clean, don’t douche. These can make you smell nicer and feel clean for a short time, but will eventually cause irritation down there. When your skin gets irritated, you scratch, and then bad bacteria is introduced.
Only use lubricants made from water, not strong chemicals or spermicides. Wipe from front to back when you have a bowel movement. Spermicides can kill the good bacteria as well as sperm. Wiping from back to front can introduce bad bacteria into your vagina.
Next time you visit the grocery store, stock up on yogurt. Look for the healthiest brands that have active cultures and probiotics that build up good bacteria in your body to stave off the yeast. Since yeast grows faster when sugar is involved, try to reduce your consumption of sugar and sugar-filled foods. There are even some yogurt based drinks, and other foods that add beneficial probiotics, as well as supplements.
By altering your hygiene routine slightly and adding a few good treats to your grocery list, you can fend off yeast infections. Taking these simple measures can be so much easier than dealing with the discomfort and messy treatments later.
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