Prevention

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Among the strategies that may prevent vaginal yeast infections are:

• Keep the external genital area clean and dry.

• Avoid irritating soaps (including bubble bath) and vaginal sprays.

• Avoid scented soaps, powders, or toilet tissue.

• Avoid daily use of panty liners, which can trap moisture and prevent good airflow.

• Change tampons and sanitary napkins frequently.

• Wear loose cotton (rather than nylon) underwear that doesn't trap moisture.

• After swimming, change immediately into dry clothing instead of staying in your wet bathing suit.

• If you have diabetes, try to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

• Take antibiotics only when prescribed by your health care professional and never for longer than directed. In addition to destroying bacteria that cause illness, antibiotics kill off the "good" bacteria that keep the yeast in the vagina at a normal level.

If you tend to get yeast infections whenever you take an antibiotic, ask your doctor to prescribe a vaginal antifungal agent at the same time.

• Wipe from the front to the rear (away from the vagina) after a bowel movement or urination.

• Don't use douches. Douching with vinegar or other chemicals increases the rate of vaginal yeast infections because it alters the vaginal bacterial balance.