Yeast Infection Prevention
It's estimated that about three-quarters of all women have had a yeast infection at least once in their lifetime. Almost half of women will get two or more. The bacteria that causes a yeast infection is actually present in around 20 to 50 percent of healthy women without causing any symptoms. The actual infection occurs when the yeast overgrows.
A yeast infection can occur for many different reasons, including sexual contact. However, yeast infections are not sexually transmitted diseases because women who are not sexually active can also get them. These types of infections can also be caused by out of control diabetes. The extra sugar in your body encourages the growth of yeast.
Douches and some vaginal hygiene products can also upset the balance of good bacteria and yeast in your body and cause a yeast infection. Another cause of yeast infections is when your immune system has been compromised, such as from taking antibiotics or from chemotherapy.
Signs of Yeast Infection
Vaginal and genital itching is one symptom that you have a yeast infection. You may also have a thick vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese. Although there are many over-the-counter medications that treat a yeast infection. If it's your first time you should make sure that you actually have this type of infection by seeing a women's health care professional. If you have more than four in one year that aren't caused by antibiotic use, you should talk to your doctor. You may have an underlying health concern.
Preventing Yeast Infections
Although yeast infections are common, there are many things that you can do to prevent them. First, wear cotton underwear or those with a cotton panel that helps keep moisture away from your body. Don't wear tight fitting clothing for a long time, and change out of swimsuits and workout clothes as soon as possible. Yeast loves moisture.
As previously mentioned, feminine hygiene products can upset the balance of good bacteria. The chemicals and perfumes in products are not good for your body.
Taking antibiotics or steroids can increase your risk for a yeast infection. Before you start taking medications, ask your doctor about preventative medication or eat more yogurt with live cultures of lactobacillus acidophilus, which is a friendly bacteria that is said to help prevent yeast from growing.
You should also eliminate stress in your life and eat healthy. Staying healthy helps keep your immune system working well, which keeps it from going into overdrive and creating a yeast infection. When you have your annual well-women exam, discuss any problems you've had with your doctor. Most of the time yeast infections are just annoying and inconvenient, but occasionally they can indicate something more serious.