Ways To Prevent Viginal Yeast

Vaginal yeast infection is an infection of the vagina, most commonly due to the presence of the fungus Candida albicans.
CAUSES

Most women will have a vaginal yeast infection at some time. Candida albicans is a common type of fungus. It is often present in small amounts in the vagina, mouth, digestive tract, and on the skin. Usually it does not cause disease or symptoms.

Candida and the many other germs or microorganisms that normally live in the vagina keep each other in balance. However, when the vagina has certain favorable conditions, the number of Candida albicans increases, leading to a yeast infection.

Some of these favorable conditions include:

* Antibiotics used to treat other types of infections change the normal balance between organisms in the vagina by decreasing the number of protective bacteria.

* Being pregnant, having diabetes, or being obese all create conditions that help yeast grow more easily.

Vaginal candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted disease. However, a small number of men will develop symptoms such as itching and a rash on the penis after having sexual contact with an infected partner.

Repeat infections that occur immediately after treatment, or a yeast infection that does not respond to any treatment, may be an early sign that a person is infected with HIV.

SYMPTOMS

– Abnormal vaginal discharge: Ranges from a slightly watery, white discharge to a thick, white, chunky discharge (like cottage cheese).

– Pain with intercourse

– Painful urination

– Redness and swelling of the vulva.

– Vaginal and labial itching with burning sensation.

PREVENTION

To help prevent and treat vaginal discharge:

 Keep your genital area clean and dry. Avoid soap and rinse with water only. Sitting in a warm, but not hot bath may help your symptoms.
 Avoid douching. Although many women feel cleaner if they douche after menstruation or intercourse, it may actually worsen vaginal discharge because it removes healthy bacteria lining of the vagina that protect against infection.
Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays, fragrances, or powders in the genital area.
 Avoid wearing extremely tight-fitting pants or shorts, which may cause irritation.
 Use pads with negative ion and oxygen (Tiens sanitary pad/panty liner) and not tampons.
 Keep your blood sugar levels under good control if you have diabetes.
Wear cotton underwear or cotton-crotch pantyhose.
Avoid underwear made of silk or nylon, because these materials are not very absorbant and restrict air flow. This can increase sweating in the genital area, which can cause irritation.