How To Prevent Vaginal Yeast Infections

Three out of four women will experience at least one yeast infection during her life. Many will also experience recurrent infections.

Practicing some of these prevention techniques may help reduce your risk.

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of getting a vaginal yeast infection.

• For one, you should always wear cotton underwear in order to allow your nether regions to breathe. Nylon and Lycra may trap air and create a breeding ground for yeast. Also, never wear pantyhose without wearing cotton underwear underneath.
• Another step you can take is to avoid using petroleum-based lubricants for vaginal lubrication during sexual intercourse. Always use water-based lubricants when vaginal dryness is an issue, as other types have been shown to increase the likelihood of a yeast infection.
• Practice good personal hygiene. Always wipe from front to back after a bowel movement in order to prevent the yeast that normally inhabits the intestinal tract from being transferred to the vaginal area.
• Eating one cup of yogurt a day helps some women prevent the yeast infections that often follow antibiotic treatment; however, it must be noted that eating yogurt will not cure a yeast infection.
• Don't use perfumed bath products or powders in the vaginal area, as these can cause irritations that can lead to infection.

• Before you get a yeast infection, decide if you prefer prescription or over-the counter (OTC) treatment.
• At the first sign of a yeast infection, call your physician for prescribed medication or go to your pharmacy to buy one of the FDA-approved products that are available OTC.
• Never self-treat a yeast infection unless you have previously been diagnosed for a yeast infection by a healthcare professional.
• Finally, always call a healthcare professional for diagnosis if you are not sure a subsequent infection is yeast-related. Other vaginal infections or STDs may have similar symptoms.

• How to Get Rid of Your Yeast Infection. Find further information on yeast infections, and learn more about the OTC treatments you can use to eradicate your own infection.
• What You Need To Know About Vaginal Yeast Infections. Learn more about what causes yeast infections, which infections share the symptoms of yeast infections, and why you should call your doctor to determine the appropriate course of action.
• Yeast Infection Remedies. Prefer to go the natural route? There are a number of natural remedies you can try if you'd like to avoid using other medications, from probiotics to tea tree oil.
• The Possible Symptoms of a Vaginal Yeast Infection. There are a number of symptoms you may experience as a result of a vaginal yeast infection but, as already mentioned above, something else could also be behind your symptoms. Learn more.