Many women have to deal with yeast infections. You may have suffered from one yourself. You should familiarize yourself with the symptoms of this condition and with the different treatments as well as the preventive methods you can use. Keep reading for some valuable tips on managing yeast infections.
If you sweat a lot, you create a humid environment. That environment is just perfect for yeast. Wear cotton clothing or clothing comprised of other natural fibers. This fabric is more breathable and reduces sweating. Avoid synthetic fabrics such as spandex, Lycra and nylon. These fabrics trap sweat and do not allow the skin to breathe.
Yeast Infections
Avoid stress to prevent getting yeast infections. Stress can hamper your immune system, leaving you vulnerable to infections of all kinds, including yeast infections.
If you’re prone to getting yeast infections, you might want to reassess your bath products. Try not to use hygiene products that contain fragrance and dye. These products can affect the pH and natural chemistry of the vagina and create a prime yeast-growing environment. Try using items that are hypoallergenic to avoid painful irritation and infection.
Do not use douches. It might seem like you are cleaning your genitals, but it actually makes things worse. Douching disrupts your natural balance of flora, which makes you even more likely to develop a yeast infection. Instead of douching, clean the infected area with some soap and warm water.
You don’t want anything that will irritate your skin or that has added perfume. Many women use body scrubs and douches in their vaginal area. These products can disturb the natural balance of your vagina. That makes you more likely to get a yeast infection. If you feel you have to, use only the mildest soaps that are fragrance free on your vagina.
Avoid anything scented near the genital area. Scented products, including sprays and soaps, can induce irritation and boost the odds of incurring a yeast infection. It is important to not use pads or tampons that are scented since they are in closest contact with the area and can irritate you. You may find toilet paper which is colored or has prints will cause irritation, too.
Yeast Infections
Try eating more yogurt if you are prone to yeast infections. The bacteria found in yogurt will keep your vagina healthy and help you to avoid yeast infections. To stay healthy, eat yogurt on a daily basis.
Draw a warm bath and pour two cups of apple-cider vinegar into your bath. The vinegar will keep the yeast from spreading and help your vagina restore its natural pH. Limit the time that you spend in this bath. You can also douche with 3 tablespoons of cider vinegar and warm water.
Add more garlic and/or sugar-free yogurt to your diet. Garlic helps to prevent yeast infections. Check at health food stores or a pharmacy for garlic pills, and you will likely prefer the deodorized version. Adding a couple cups of live culture yogurt that’s sugar-free to your diet daily can really reduce or prevent a yeast infection.
Keep your vaginal area clean. Thoroughly clean the genital area. Dry the area thoroughly, and consider using a hair-dryer for extra measure. Yeast grows in warm, moist environments; therefore, keep the area as dry as possible.
Tea Tree Oil
A great way to kill bacteria in your body is with the use of tea tree oil. Mix a small amount of almond oil with tea tree oil and then apply it to your vagina. Avoid using this oil without diluting it with a carrier oil as it may burn and make you feel worse down there. The mix of tea tree oil and almond oil will help you restore a natural balance in your vagina and help fight the infection.
If yeast infections seem to occur right alongside your periods, you need to take action. Before your period, take an acidophilus tablet. Also take one after your period. It should reduce or eliminate your symptoms. You can stop the infection even before it begins, when you are proactive.
Cotton underwear will help protect you from yeast infections. Synthetic materials can hold in moisture, and moist environments are where yeast thrives. Be sure it’s 100% cotton and change your undies after exercise or anytime you sweat. Remaining dry will help you stay healthy and happy.
Stay away from hygiene products that are scented. These items are made with chemicals that can alter the pH levels in your body. They can also cause an itchy sensation in your vagina. This results in an increase in yeast organisms. Look for options that contain no scents and keep an eye out for any discomfort you feel when trying out these products.
The more you know about a yeast infection, the easier it is to treat it. Regardless of whether or not you have ever had one, being more informed about them is a good thing.