Yeast, a type of fungus, lives inside of a healthy vagina in small numbers. An infection, usually caused by a type of yeast called Candida albicans, can happen when there is an overgrowth of yeast. It can be a very uncomfortable feeling to experience the itching, burning and discharge of a yeast infection, but this common condition can be avoided. Here are a few ways to keep your yeast levels in balance.
Wear cotton underwear.
The vagina is a collapsed muscle that needs to have a fresh source of air to breathe in order for the good bacteria in its ecosystem to flourish. Wearing cotton underwear allows for air to flow freely to the vagina as well as absorb extra moisture that may collect in the vagina because of its natural discharge that can contribute to an overgrowth of yeast. Yeast flourishes in dark, moist places, so if you can keep the vagina supplied with fresh air, you can maintain a healthy level of yeast.
Take acidophilus or yogurt.
Acidophilus, a “friendly bacteria”, comes in a chewable tablet or in a capsule that can be swallowed and can be purchased over the counter at any of your local drug stores or pharmacies. It is a live culture that is found in the body that helps with maintaining digestive health as well as vaginal health. Taking acidophilus will help keep the vagina stocked with levels of good bacteria that will maintain proper pH and keep the levels of yeast in line. If you have an issue with taking medications, then a yogurt a day will do the trick! Yogurt also contains the same live cultures that will help to keep your vagina healthy!
READ: Women: Keep Your Lady Parts Healthy (And Happy)
Use protection during sex.
Having unprotected sex can expose you to bacteria and natural flora that live on the penis that may disturb the balance of bacteria within the vagina and cause infection. Using condoms correctly throughout the sexual experience can reduce your chances of not only contracting STDs, but BV and yeast infections as well.
Reduce sugar intake.
Yeast loves sugar and flourishes when it is supplied with it! Get ahead of yeast overgrowth by reducing the amount of sugar you take in daily. Carbs also reduce down to sugar when digested, so make sure to watch how much pasta and bread you consume. Alcohol converts to sugar when it is broken down by the body so limit intake, and replace sugar in homemade drinks with natural sweeteners.
Wear loose-fitting clothing.
Tight clothing around the pelvis cuts off the flow of oxygen to the vagina and can cause an overgrowth of bad bacteria and yeast. Do your vagina a huge favor and wear looser clothing that doesn’t restrict the flow of air to it. Choose the right sized underwear as well as pants that don’t cut into the creases of your bikini line.
So there you have it! Yeast infections can be avoided if you simply take care of yourself and let the vagina breathe! If you do find yourself under the weather because of the “yeast monster”, you can use an over-the-counter product for either one to seven days (a one day formula is more concentrated where the seven day formula has a lower concentration), or you can get a prescription from your doctor.
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Womens Health center for more helpful articles and tips.
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