Help for Chronic Yeast Infections
Most women will, at some point in their lives, suffer the discomfort of having a yeast infection. Some women, however, develop chronic yeast infections. They endure one right after the other and some feel they will never find a cure.
Before talking about treatment, let’s take a look at who is most at risk for chronic yeast infections. Women with diabetes, those who are on certain prescription birth control, women with HIV and those who are taking a course of antibiotics are all in the high risk group.
While home remedies are often effective for occasional yeast infections, if you are suffering from chronic yeast infections, meaning four or more infections per year, you should enlist the help of a doctor. One reason for that is to be sure you are actually dealing with yeast infections and not a different type of infection.
Once chronic yeast infection is confirmed, the doctor will be able to prescribe stronger treatment than what is available over the counter. Typically, this will include treatment with an antifungal medication such as Diflucan or Terazole.
If the prescription medication does not clear up your chronic yeast infections, your doctor may want to order additional tests to see if there is an underlying medical condition that could be causing the problem.
There are some steps that you can take to try and prevent a chronic yeast infection from occurring. Not all of these tips will apply to every woman, but if you realize some DO apply, then curing your problem may be as simple as making a small lifestyle change.
Douching
Douching can increase the risk for yeast infection in two ways. First, many types of douches expose the vaginal area to chemicals. This can put you at increased risk. Secondly, douching can rid the genital area of good bacteria which are necessary in order to keep yeast under control and, thus, prevent infection. Douching is not necessary for proper hygiene, so skip this step in your routine, especially if you are prone to chronic yeast infections.
Tight Fitting Clothes
Tight fitting clothing can cause moisture to build up and therefore provide a breeding ground for yeast. Skip the tight jeans and opt for panties made from 100% cotton. By cutting down on trapped moisture in the vaginal area, you can decrease your risk for infection.
Post Exercise Hygiene
As mentioned above, moisture provides an ideal condition for yeast to grow. Ideally, you should shower after exercise before getting dressed, but if this is not possible, at least be sure to dry off THOROUGHLY.
Shaving
Shaving the vaginal area completely is certainly in vogue, but if you have chronic yeast infections, you might want to skip this particular trend. The reason is that the hair provides a barrier between that sensitive area and chemicals, such as those found in certain creams and powders. Removing the hair can increase your risk for infections.
You don’t have to continue to suffer with chronic yeast infections. See your doctor and try the above mentioned preventive measures. Yeast infections can make you feel miserable, but there is hope!
