Do you experience redness, swelling and itching in the vagina?

Do you have thick and yellow discharge from your vagina?

If yes, then you may have a problem with a vaginal yeast infection. In such a situation, you do not need to worry because you are not alone. Vaginal yeast infection is common. Most women are troubled by this problem sometime in their lifetime and it can be easily treated.

Vaginal yeast infection, also known as candidiasis. This problem occurs when the fungus, Candida albicans overgrows. Dr Sheeba Mittal of Well Women Clinic is giving us information about ways to reduce this problem.

Dr.Sheeba ji says, 'Women who are pregnant, diabetic and under high stress or taking antibiotics, corticosteroids and birth control pills are more susceptible to vaginal yeast infection. Usually, there are enough good bacteria in the body to prevent yeast infections. But when the body's good bacteria get affected, it opens the door for an overgrowth of yeast.'

Before knowing the ways to prevent vaginal yeast infection, let us know about its symptoms and causes-

Symptoms of vaginal yeast infection

  • Vaginal itching
  • odorless, thick, and yellow vaginal discharge
  • Burning sensation during urine or sexual relationship
  • vaginal pain
  • Redness and swelling in the vagina

If you notice fishy-smelling vaginal discharge or foul-smelling, greenish-yellow vaginal discharge, see a doctor immediately as these can be signs of a serious vaginal infection caused by bacteria or parasites.

Causes of vaginal yeast infection

Pregnancy

Diabetes

Weak immune system

Antibiotics

Birth control use with high doses of the hormone estrogen

Using a douche or vaginal spray

Preventing yeast infections may not be possible for all women, but here's what you can do to reduce your chances.

Wear loose clothing

Keep in mind that your jeans, skirt, underwear, yoga pants, panties, etc. are not tight. They can increase your body temperature and the amount of moisture around your vagina. This increases the chances of yeast infection.

Cotton panties

Cotton is the best choice for you. It does not hold onto heat or moisture and helps keep you dry.

Do not shower

Feminine hygiene products such as douches can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your vagina by removing some of the good bacteria that fight infection. Try to avoid smells from feminine products like bubble baths, soaps, sprays, tampons and pads etc.

Cleaning the vagina

Always wipe the vagina from front to back after urinating and bathing. It is very important to dry this part thoroughly to avoid infection.

Special care during periods

Change tampons, pads, and panty liners often when you have your period. This greatly reduces the risk of infection.

You too can reduce the problem of yeast infection to some extent by trying these remedies.

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