6 Ways to Prevent Vaginal Infections

1. Get Clean

The most common sense way to preventing any type of infection, especially vaginal infection, is to practice good hygiene. Some time-tested and true ways to prevent vaginal infections include wiping yourself after urinating or a bowel movement from front to back. Practicing this early on will help to avoid transfer of yeast and other bacteria from the rectum to the vagina.

Douching may sound like an essential step in getting clean, but it should be avoided at all costs. Douching disturbs the natural pH of the vagina which can then lead to yeast infections (which are not the only type of vaginal infections, but are the most commonly known ones). The vagina is a "self-curing" area and does not need douching to expel products or waste material. In addition to avoiding douching, women should avoid or limit the number of feminine hygiene products that they use. Products such as sprays and bubble baths often irritate the vagina and facilitate infections.

Scented or deodorized toilet paper, tampons, pads or panty-liners are also irritating to the vagina. It is recommended that women use unscented pads and tampons during their menstrual cycle.

2. Get Dry

A moist environment encourages the growth of yeast and other fungus. When engaging in activities where water or sweat is involved, promptly remove the wet clothing as soon as possible. Women should also dry the vaginal area thoroughly after showering or swimming.

3. Get Loose

Loose- fitting clothing discourages the growth of yeasts and other fungal agents. Wearing cotton underwear and other undergarments with a cotton crotch will help the vaginal area to breathe and stay moisture free. A tight, moist environment encourages the growth of yeast. Cotton allows the genitals to breathe, which helps the vaginal area stay dry. Opting to not wear underwear during the night when sleeping also is a good way to prevent vaginal infections from occurring.

4. Get Cultured

Decreasing sugar and high sugar product consumption decreases the yeast growth in your body. Increased yeast growth could facilitate vaginal infections. Eat yogurt and other probiotic products that contain live cultures of lactobacilius acidophilis helps to maintain healthy yeast levels.

5. Get Lubricated

Not all vaginal irritation is caused by an infection. Women who have passed menopause can often be afflicted with a condition called atrophic vaginitis. This disorder occurs from a lack of hormonal stimulation to the genital tissues. Because the vulva and vagina are deprived of these hormones, they become drier and more easily irritated during sexual activity. The problem can be easily remedied by using a lubricating jelly or the more expensive option of hormone replacement therapy.