5 Ways to Prevent Yeast Infections Before They Begin

It’s no one’s favorite conversation, but one that needs to happen. Yeast infections are anything but a party. The good news: they can be prevented. Outside of frequent occurrence, yeast infections can occur anywhere in the body, including your blood.

What Are Yeast Infections?

Yeast infections happen when the bacteria that regulate yeast levels are reduced or killed off for some reason. The conditions in which they are kept at bay are changed, and yeast overpopulates, leading to infection.

While these infections can technically arise anywhere, they are most commonly associated with a vaginal disturbance. An onset of vaginal yeast infection can be caused by diabetes, a weakened immune system, hormones, sprays, antibiotics, and other factors.

Here’s how to keep that yeast in check and avoid infection.

1. Consume Probiotics

Certain probiotics can have plenty of health benefits. For example, yogurt contains live cultures that help to restore any irregularity of the body’s protective bacteria. They are helpful to consume both before and after contracting a yeast infection.

2. Rethink Your Clothes

Wearing panties, jeans, yoga pants, and other clothes too tight put you at risk for a yeast infection. Avoid wearing anything too constricting in the vaginal area to ensure that you’re not enabling an environment that is too moist and prime for infection.

3. Wipe from Front to Back

Always make sure to clean yourself from front to back when using the restroom. This will ensure that no harmful bacteria spread to the vagina.

4. Avoid Scented Feminine Products

Perfumes and chemicals in scented feminine products can be harmful to the vagina’s pH and throw off the overall balance. Avoid tampons, lotions, soaps, and sprays with scent.

5. Never Stay in Wet Clothes

Whether after swimming, the gym, or rain—avoid staying in wet clothing if possible. Similar to wearing clothes that are too tight, the additional moisture can onset the perfect environment for a yeast infection.

In addition to these tips, any medication or product that alters hormone levels or pH puts you at risk for a yeast infection. Always consult with a physician about new medications or antibiotics to treat a yeast infection.