How To Avoid Yeast Infections
Tuesday, October 27th, 2009Ask any woman past puberty about the cause of a yeast infection, and she may not be able to tell you the answer. But she will be able to tell you about the symptoms, the discomfort and most likely knows how to cure a yeast infection. Although she may know the short term cure, it is important to understand the cause of yeast infections to be able to cure it for life. Unfortunately, those who don’t learn from the past are doomed to repeat it.
Yeast infections are simply irritations of mocous membranes throughout the body in places like the vagina, intestines, skin or mouth. An infection causes swelling and irritation of the areas affected. The infection itself is simply an over-abundance of a fungus known as candidiasis. This same family of fungi is also responsible for thrush infections and vaginitis.
What is the 411 about the Causes of Yeast Infections?
You must understand what causes yeast infections to stop getting them in the future. The candida fungus is a fungus of “opportunity,” meaning that the fungus attacks a vulnerable area of the body. Yeast infections are very often the result of a woman taking antibiotics or steroid medications. These medications make the vagina develop too much candida. Actually, candida is a fungus commonly found in the vagina; it’s only when the fungus explodes into an over-abundance that it causes a yeast infection. Antibiotics and steroids for some women are required for them to stay healthy. Women that need to take these medications will often take a yeast infection medication at the same time, especially if they are prone to getting yeast infections.
Another cause of yeast infections is wearing damp underclothing or swimsuits during hot weather. In warm damp environments, the candida fungus thrives. Perspiration in the vaginal area and/or wearing a damp swimsuit provides everything candida needs to flourish. To prevent yeast infections in hot, damp weather, change your underwear if it feels too damp, use wetness-absorbing powder in your underclothes, and change out of your swimsuit into dry clothing when you’re not swimming.
Another common cause of yeast infections in women is wearing shorts or pants that are too tight. Clothing that’s too tight-fitting causes vaginal irritation. Candida flourishes on the irritated vaginal skin. Once the irritation begins, so does the full-blown yeast infection. It makes a lot of sense for women who are susceptable to yeast infections to avoid tight-fitting clothing whenever possible.
There are other types of irritations that can be the source of yeast infections taking hold. Some soaps and bath products have been known to cause irritation for some women who have especially sensitive skin. Many women are attracted to the smooth feel and pleasant smell but often regret their use afterward. Obviously, if you know that a bath product causes irritations for you, then avoid whenever possible. Many will suggest a milk-bath product that only contains a small amount of soap.
Finally, it’s vitally important that women do not use douche products. Most physicians agree that using douches is not helpful or necessary for maintaining vaginal health. Nature will maintain your help and doesn’t need assistance from harsh douche products.
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