Preventing Vaginitis

Continued...

When the pH or bacteria are disrupted for some reason, the fungus is able to proliferate. The natural environment of the vagina may be disturbed by antibiotics, birth control pills, pregnancy diabetes, douching or sexual activity.

Athletic women may be prone to yeast infection because of the hours they spend training in workout clothes that retain moisture and don't allow the pubic area to dry out.

Prevention

You can take several precautions to reduce your chance of getting vaginitis. Wear cotton undergarments and polypropylene workout clothes that "breathe" and wick away moisture. Use a hair dryer on a cool setting to dry the pubic area after a workout. Sleep in cotton pajamas or no underwear to allow air to circulate at night.

To avoid introducing bacteria and Candida into the vaginal area, wipe from front to back when using the toilet. If you use a diaphragm, make sure it is clean and properly dried. Using condoms reduces your risk of vaginitis and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Acidifying the vagina weekly with an applicator full of slightly acidic sterile vaginal jelly (Aci-jel) may discourage the growth of Candida if you are susceptible to it.

Douching is not recommended because it does not acidify the vagina and may introduce infection. If you have a recurring chronic infection, you may be reinfected by an asymptomatic sexual partner. You may both need to be treated.

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine confirmed that eating yogurt may provide some relief from chronic yeast infections. The women in the study benefited from a daily 8-ounce serving containing Lactobacillis acidophilus bacteria.

Using yogurt vaginally to cut down on yeast infections is a messy proposition and actually not that effective. Yogurt can also introduce other infections since it is not sterile.

Should you use over-the-counter remedies to cure your yeast infection?

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Table of Contents

Foreword: Billie Jean King

Comments by Barb Harris
Editor in Chief,
Shape Magazine

General Health
Nutrition
Exercise
Common Medical Problems
Dental Health
Emergency!
Infectious Disease
Sexual Health
Emotional Well-Being
Eating Disorders
Alcohol & Other Drugs
Environmental Health
Prevention