6 Tips That Can Help You Avoid a Yeast Infection

June 25, 2014

Yeast infections are common and rarely serious, but they can be very unpleasant.

The vagina usually has a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast. When there is an overabundance of yeast cells in the vagina or vulva, a yeast infection is the result. Women with yeast infections may experience itching, irritation, burning, soreness and a thick discharge.

University Hospitals OB/GYN Ellen Schleckman, MD, discusses six tips to prevent a yeast infection.

1. Remove wet swimsuits.

Wearing a wet suit leaves a residue of pool chemicals on your skin and promotes the imbalance of bacteria in the vagina and vulva, Dr. Schleckman says.

“Don’t sit around in a wet bathing suit,” she says. “Rinse off with water and change immediately.”

The same goes for exercise. Rather than walking around in your sweaty clothes post-workout, hop in the shower and put on fresh clothes.

2. Skip strong cleansers.

Douches, antibacterial soaps and feminine sprays and powders promise a squeaky clean body. But Dr. Schleckman warns that these chemical-based products can alter a woman’s bacterial balance and cause chemical dermatitis.

“I call it overzealous hygiene,” Dr. Schleckman says. “You end up washing away the good bacteria, too.”

She recommends that women use paraben-free, dye-free hypoallergenic soaps or even gentle cleansers meant for babies. If your skin is irritated you can use an ointment like Vaseline or Aquaphor to soothe the area.

3. Cut back on sugars.

Diets high in sugar may be associated with a greater occurrence of yeast infections, Dr. Schleckman says. Swap foods and drinks made with sugars, such as soda and pastries, for healthier treats, like unsweetened iced tea or fresh fruit salad.

4. Consider a probiotic.

Lactobacillus is a bacteria that is part of a healthy vaginal flora. It can be found in supplements on its own or in some food such as yogurt.

“We don’t have consistent studies that say taking a probiotic or eating foods that contain probiotics, such as yogurt, prevent yeast infections,” says Dr. Schleckman “But these lifestyle changes may help and don’t cause any harm.”

Make sure to avoid any yogurts high in sugar or added sweeteners.

5. Don’t self-diagnose.

Many women make the mistake of trying to self-diagnose – and self-treat – yeast infections, Dr. Schleckman says.

“Many women who think they have a yeast infection actually do not,” she says.

These phantom infections may simply be skin discomfort due to a chemical irritant or a change in discharge before menstruation. Women who frequently purchase over-the-counter yeast infection treatment may actually disrupting the balance of their vaginal flora.

“This may cause an increasing rate of yeast that resists treatment,” Dr. Schleckman says. If you experience vaginal irritation, leave it up to your doctor to identify the source of your irritation. They may diagnose a different type on infection or a skin condition of the vulva.

6. Pay attention to preexisting health conditions.

Certain conditions may make you more prone to yeast infections. Women with diabetes, women with compromised immune systems and women who are pregnant are all at a greater risk for yeast infections. Certain diabetes medications can also increase your risk of getting a yeast infection.

“Managing your medical issues may help in reducing your yeast infection risk,” Dr. Schleckman says.