GongTo

Eight tips to avoid vaginal infections

Your vagina is home to many friendly bacteria. A change or imbalance in these bacteria can lead to infections. Read our simple tips to keep your vagina healthy.

The vagina, like the rest of our body, needs to be kept clean. All it takes are a few simple changes to be followed regularly. Vaginal health depends upon your overall health and immunity. Besides these tips, a healthy diet, regular exercise, sound sleep and reduced stress are essential for good health.

Excessive growth of yeast can trigger vaginal infections very commonly. Yeast is a fungus that is naturally present in the vagina. Symptoms of vaginal yeast infections are itchiness, soreness, burning sensation while passing urine or during intercourse or white or colourless discharge. You can also catch yeast infection if your immune system is down.
Yogurt and probiotics help counter yeast infections as they have antifungal, antibiotic and antibacterial properties. However, one must immediately consult a doctor if any of these symptoms occur.
If you’re a yeast infection prone woman or have experienced repeated yeast vaginal infections, consult your doctor before going on birth control with high levels of estrogen. Consider switching to birth control that is predominantly progesterone.
That sexy lingerie could also mean trouble. They can give you vaginal infections too! For regular wear, always go for cotton or silk lingerie. They absorb moisture and help to keep the vagina dry. It is better to avoid synthetic, nylon or blended materials that holds moisture close to skin. The fancy, sexy lingerie could be used for special days!
Scented soaps, deodorants and perfumed pads or tampons can disrupt the vagina’s natural balance and lead to vaginal infections. The vagina smells in a certain way because it is meant to do so. It can also clean itself. Just don’t forget to change your pads and tampons regularly, otherwise they can provide a home for nasty bacteria to grow.
It is advisable not to sit around in your wet swimsuit or sweaty gym clothes. Moisture can give vaginal infections a happy space to grow. Also try to avoid extremely tight fitting pantyhose, tights, jeans and leggings for long periods. Even they cause bacteria to grow and lead to infections. Opt for loose airy clothes like skirts, dresses that offer regular airflow.
The vagina should be cleaned properly everyday front to back to avoid anal bacteria entering the vagina. All you need is water and a mild unscented soap. There is no need for douching! That can just mess up the bacterial balance.
Cleaning up after intercourse or masturbation is important. It is advisable to pee after sex or take a shower with baby soap. Residual body fluids or lubricants may lead to infections.
It is preferable to avoid western style public toilets unless they are disinfected well. Alternately carrying disposable toilet seats/seat covers makes sense. You aren't susceptible to yeast infections but public toilets could be infected with other dangerous and unknown bacteria. Better safe than sorry!