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How to Prevent Yeast Infections
Though yeast infections are quite common amongst women of all ages, many of them have not taken the time to understand their bodies and what causes yeast infections. It is very important that you learn what symptoms are related to a yeast infection, also known as Candidiasis, and that you take the proper precautions inorder to avoid yeast infections.
The first thing you should know about this condition is exactly what it is. Candida albicans is a fungus normally found in small numbers inside the vagina. It is the overgrowth of this fungus that causes Candidiasis or a yeast infection. There is a misconception about the term fungus and I would like to assure you that it is perfectly normal.
You see, our bodily organisms keep this fungus in check most of the time. It is only when the body undergoes stressful changes and disorders that this fungus may overgrow and set the stage for a yeast infection. Such conditions involve pregnancy, antibiotics used to treat other infections, and even an abundance of semen can lead to the overgrowth of Candida. Although it can be quite unpredictable when this type of infection will occur, there are many symptoms that can reveal the malady to you.
One of the most common yeast infection symptoms involve an irritation of the vagina accompanied by itching. While these symptoms can sometimes be caused by a sexually transmitted disease, it is also quite normal to experience these symptoms when a yeast infection is present.
Another common causes of yeast infections and perhaps the most disgusting one of all is the thick white vaginal discharge which may resemble cottage cheese. Although usually odorless, some cases tend to smell a little like bread or yeast.
Other causes of yeast infections are noticed during sexual intercourse. Some women have reported experiencing a burning sensation and even some vaginal pain while having sex with their partners. This is definitely the scariest and unpleasant symptom of them all but it is perfectly normal and will go away with the proper treatment.
Luckily there are quite a few things us women can do to avoid yeast infections. It all starts by maintaining a strong immune system. One way to do this is to follow a healthy lifestyle of proper exercise, nutrition and rest. Avoid foods high in refined sugar and fats, drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid stressful situations as much as possible.
Candidiasis can occur in warm and moist environments such as the mouth, throat, and especially the vagina. Therefore you want to avoid wearing tight jeans or nylon pants which entrap moisture. Try to wear cotton underwear and if possible, do not wear any underwear when sleeping at night.
I did mention that proper exercise is a great way to avoid yeast infections because it helps keep your immune system strong and reduces stress. However, if swimming is one of your favorite cardiovascular activites, make sure that you DO NOT leave your wet bathing suit on after you are done. Wet bathing suits seems to be a high risk for yeast infections amongst women and can easily be avoided by changing into some dry cotton underwear or attire.
Finally, and this precaution seems to be overlooked, avoid douching and any other feminine hygenical product. The vagina produces its own good bacteria which helps keep Candida regulated and douching tends to remove these natural filters and enhances the risk of a yeast infection.
Being proactive towards avoiding yeast infections goes a long way. However, there are still plenty of precautions that one can take to avoid candidiasis. Learn more about these preventative measures and find out how to naturally cure yeast infections here: Yeast Infection Treatments