3 Ways to Prevent Reproductive Tract Infections

1. Practice Safe Sex

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are types of reproductive tract infections. Common types of these diseases include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, human papilloma virus (HPV) and trichomoniasis. All of these diseases can be effectively prevented through safe sex practices or abstinence. If you choose to have sex, you may avoid contracting sexually transmitted reproductive tract infections by using a condom 100 percent of the time. Additionally, you should limit your sexual activity to monogamous relationships and make sure your partner has been screened and cleared of STDs. You should also be screened for STDs regularly as a precautionary measure because many infections are asymptomatic.

2. Maintain a Healthy Vaginal Environment

Many reproductive tract infections are endogenous infections, meaning that they occur from agents that are already in your body. The most common of these infections are yeast infections. One way to prevent yeast infections is to maintain a healthy, dry vaginal environment. White cotton panties are the best underwear for everyday wear because they allow air circulation, which inhibits yeast growth. Avoid nylon and Lycra underwear, as well as clothing that's tight in the crotch, and remove a wet bathing suit as soon as possible.

Eating yogurt with live cultures can also help maintain healthy bacteria in your reproductive tract. If you take antibiotics to treat another infection, you may want to do prophylactic yeast infection treatment, as antibiotics can also kill off healthy vaginal bacteria.

3. Avoid Introducing Bacteria and Irritants to the Reproductive Tract

Many reproductive tract infections are caused by foreign bacteria and irritants. You can avoid this by following some simple rules. Avoid introducing chemicals into the vagina, such as douches, bath products and feminine hygiene sprays. External cleansing with soap and water is all that is needed for proper vaginal hygiene. After using the bathroom, always wipe front to back to prevent transferring yeast or bacteria from the intestinal tract to the reproductive tract. Avoid scented feminine hygiene products like tampons, panty liners and pads, as well as scented toilet paper. Only use water-based sexual lubricants. These rules many not prevent all vaginal infections, but they can help prevent most.