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9 Best Probiotics For Vaginal Health

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If you're like most women, you probably don't think about your vaginal health until something goes wrong. And when something does go wrong, it's usually pretty uncomfortable (to say the least). Luckily, there are some simple things you can do to keep your vagina healthy – like taking probiotics.

In this blog post, we'll discuss the 9 best probiotics for vaginal health and how they can help maintain good reproductive health.

1.      Elm & Rye Probiotic

2.      Penguin Probiotic

3.      Garden of Life Doctor Formulated Probiotics

4.      Physician's Choice Probiotics

5.      GNC Probiotic Complex Daily Need

6.      Swanson's Probiotics for Daily Wellness

7.      Align Probiotic

8.      RenewLife Health & Wellness Ultimate Flora Probiotic

9.      Raw Probiotics Ultimate Care

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms (aka, "good" bacteria) that are similar to the ones already found in your body. These good bacteria help keep your gut healthy by preventing the growth of bad bacteria. Probiotics can be found in supplements, fermented foods, and yogurts.

When it comes to vaginal health, probiotics can help balance the good and bad bacteria in your vagina. This is important because an imbalance of bacteria can lead to vaginal infections and other health problems.

Why take probiotics for vaginal health?

There are a few reasons why women should take probiotics for vaginal health:

·        To prevent and treat vaginal infections, like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections.

·        To balance the good and bad bacteria in your vagina.

·        To reduce the symptoms of vaginal infections and other vaginal issues.

·        To maintain good vaginal health.

When to consider taking probiotics for vaginal health?

If you're experiencing any vaginal infections or other vaginal issues, it's a good idea to consider taking probiotics. Probiotics can help prevent and treat these problems, as well as maintain good vaginal health in general.

Will any probiotic help with vaginal health?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – it depends on the specific probiotic and the woman's individual needs. However, most probiotics for vaginal health will help balance the good and bad bacteria in your vagina and may reduce the symptoms of vaginal infections and other vaginal issues.

What are the side effects of probiotics on vaginal health?

Probiotics are generally considered safe for most people. However, some people may experience side effects like gas, bloating, or diarrhea. If you experience any of these side effects, it's important to stop taking the probiotic and talk to your doctor.

How do I store probiotics?

It's important to store probiotics properly to ensure that they remain effective. Probiotics should be stored in a cool, dark place like a refrigerator. Most probiotics will come with specific storage instructions, so be sure to follow these.

When buying probiotics, it's also important to look for the expiration date. Probiotics can lose their effectiveness over time, so it's important to buy fresh probiotics and use them before they expire.

How do I take probiotics?

You can take probiotics in supplement form or by eating fermented foods and yogurts that contain live and active cultures. If you choose to take a supplement, be sure to look for one that contains at least 50 million CFUs (colony forming units) and is specifically designed for vaginal health.

It's also important to take probiotics on a regular basis – not just when you're experiencing vaginal issues. This will help prevent future problems from occurring.

When it comes to choosing a probiotic supplement, there are many factors to consider. Here are a few of the most important:

The type of probiotic strains it contains.

Some strains are more effective than others. Look for a supplement that contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, or Lactobacillus reuteri.

The number of CFUs.

As we mentioned before, you want a supplement that contains at least 50 million CFUs. This will ensure that you're getting enough live and active cultures to balance the bacteria in your body.

The delivery method.

Probiotics come in capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids. Some forms are more effective than others. For example, capsules are designed to protect the probiotics from stomach acid so they can make it to where they're needed most.

Possible Health Benefits of Probiotics

There are a variety of other potential health benefits of probiotics:

Less Gas or Bloating

The residual by-product of digestion is methane gas. There's no avoiding it; but you can reduce the amount of gas produced by having the appropriate bacteria in your stomach.

Excessive flatulence, bloating, and a general sense of nausea can all be caused by an unruly gut biome. This is because you have too much of one kind of microbe and not enough of another.

A healthy supply of bacteria supplied by a probiotic may help you digest your food more efficiently.

Excess gas and bloating are two examples of ailments that can appear. As a result, you should bring up your issues with your doctor the next time you see him or her. You may be pleasantly surprised to learn how simple it is to address even the most difficult gut problems.

Increased Energy

What we eat is digested by the bacteria in our stomach. As a result, having incorrect germs might lead to meals not going as far as you believe they should.

Your body must have the bacteria it needs to help extract every last protein, vitamin, and mineral from what you eat. You'll never feel tired after eating a high-protein lunch again. You can dine with confidence knowing that you will be receiving the energy you require.

Another advantage is that you may eat less and still obtain the same amount of nutrition. This assumes your gut biome was out of balance, to begin with. It's better for you to make an appointment with a doctor if you believe this advice might be the reason for your health concerns. A series of tests will determine the source of your health problem.

Regular Bathroom Visits

It's no fun to have to rush to the restroom at a moment's notice. However, if your gut biome is out of order, this may happen. So, what can you do about it? Try a probiotic!

There's little we can say about it and yet remain family-friendly. However, we may state that a misbehaving gut biome might lead to you needing to use the bathroom frequently. Taking a probiotic may assist with this, especially if it's only happening occasionally.

If you have recurring issues with your bathroom habits, it's a good idea to schedule an appointment with your doctor.

What are the different strains used in probiotics?

There are many different strains of probiotics, but some are more commonly used in vaginal health supplements than others. Here are a few of the most popular:

Lactobacillus rhamnosus

This is one of the most effective strains for vaginal health. It can help prevent and treat BV, yeast infections, UTIs, and other vaginal issues.

Lactobacillus acidophilus

This is another common strain of probiotic. It can help prevent UTIs, yeast infections, BV, and other vaginal issues.

Lactobacillus reuteri

This strain is effective in treating BV and yeast infections. It can also help prevent UTIs.

Now that we've answered some of the most common questions about probiotics, let's take a look at the best probiotic supplements for vaginal health:

Elm & Rye is the producer of many effective and affordable health supplements. This product in their line is gaining popularity, especially among those looking for gut-related benefits from Lactobacillus Acidophilus. The active ingredient found within these probiotic daily pills can promote both mental clarity as well as immune system strength without costing an arm or leg. What more could you ask from your favorite supplement company?

Penguin's Probiotic was created for those who require an extra boost to their digestion and need a probiotic that works great when used long-term.

Each serving is one capsule for adults. Like any other dietary supplement, if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, think you might have one, or are taking medication, talk to your doctor before using.

3. Garden of Life Doctor Formulated Probiotics

Image courtesy Garden of Life

Formulated by America's Brain-Health Expert, a board-certified Neurologist who is also an expert on the human microbiome. This unique formula provides high counts of beneficial probiotics made from diverse strains that are resistant to stomach acid and bile so as not only support women's systems but their immune response too!

4. Physician's Choice Probiotics

Image courtesy Physician's Choice

Why not try a supplement that can help you get the most out of life?  With our affordable probiotic, Physician's Choice has created an effective solution for challenges women face on a daily basis. Just take one capsule with breakfast and start living your best possible future today!

5. GNC Probiotic Complex Daily Need

Image courtesy GNC

GNC is dedicated to providing consumers with access and information about what's inside their products, which means you know exactly how your body will react when taking GNC Daily Need Probiotic Complex.

The complex contains several strains of live active probiotics that may help maintain good health by influencing the balance in our natural flora population.

6. Swanson's Probiotics for Daily Wellness

Image courtesy Swanson

Hectic lives can all team up to disrupt your natural balance. Supportive supplements such as Probiotic for Daily Wellness by Swanson Health help support general health with a higher population density in beneficial strains which will help restore harmony throughout your entire body.

7. Align Probiotic

Image courtesy Align Probiotic

The human body is home to about 1 trillion bacteria, and it's these little creatures that help us digest food properly, among other functions. However sometimes changes in diet or stress can disrupt the natural balance of good vs bad bacteria - which leads us into uncomfortable situations where our digestion or other functions becomes impaired!

Align offers a supplement designed specifically for those who want to get back on track with healthy populations so they never have any more trouble.

8. RenewLife Health & Wellness Ultimate Flora Probiotic

Image courtesy RenewLife

Renew Life is here to help you feel lighter, brighter and more energized. Our #1 selling women's probiotic contains 10 specially selected strains designed for digestive support as well as immune health. Additionally, they use a potent Lactobacilli formula so that your vaginal environment can be optimal as well!

9. Raw Probiotics Ultimate Care

Image courtesy Raw Probiotics

We all know how important it is to maintain a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria in our digestive and other systems, but what many people don't realize is that this can be compromised by factors like the overuse of medications or stress.

The Replenish Blend includes clinically studied strains which will help you repopulate with beneficial Bifidobacteria.

 

How do I choose the right probiotic for vaginal health?

The best way to choose a probiotic for vaginal health is to talk to your doctor. They can help you select the right product based on your needs.

There are many different types of probiotics on the market, so it's important to do your research before purchasing one. Probiotics come in different forms, such as capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids.

When it comes to probiotics for vaginal health, look for products that contain Lactobacillus. This is a type of bacteria that helps keep the vagina healthy by maintaining its pH balance.

Probiotics with Lactobacillus can help treat and prevent yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and UTIs.

How many probiotics should a woman take?

The amount of probiotics you should take depends on the reason you're taking them. Talk to your doctor to determine the best dosage for you.

What if I experience gas or bloating from probiotics?

If you experience gas or bloating from probiotics, try taking them with food. You may also need to take a lower dose.

What is Candidiasis?

Candidiasis is a fungal infection that can occur in the vagina, mouth, or skin. It's caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. Symptoms of candidiasis include itching, burning, and thick white discharge.

Probiotics can help prevent candidiasis by maintaining the pH balance in the vagina and keeping Candida albicans levels in check. Probiotics can also help treat candidiasis. If you experience any symptoms of candidiasis, talk to your doctor first, though.

What causes candidiasis?

Candidiasis is usually caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. This can happen if the pH balance in your body is off or if you have a weakened immune system. Candidiasis can also be caused by taking antibiotics, which kill both good and bad bacteria.

How do I know if I have candidiasis?

If you experience any symptoms of candidiasis, such as itching, burning, or thick white discharge, talk to your doctor. They can perform a swab test to confirm the diagnosis.

How is candidiasis treated?

Candidiasis is usually treated with antifungal medications. These can be in the form of creams, tablets, or suppositories. Probiotics can also help treat candidiasis by restoring the balance of good bacteria.

How can I prevent candidiasis?

There are several things you can do to prevent candidiasis. Avoid douching, which can disrupt the pH balance in the vagina. Wear loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear to allow your skin to breathe. Avoid wearing wet clothes or bathing suits for long periods of time. And practice good hygiene!

How long will it take probiotics to start working?

The answer to this question depends on the person and the condition being treated. Some people may see results within a few days or weeks. However, for others, it may take months of taking probiotics before they notice any changes. It is important to continue taking them as directed and to be patient.

When choosing a probiotic supplement, it is important to look for one that contains live and active cultures. It is also important to choose a product that has been tested for purity and safety. Probiotics for vaginal health should be taken as directed on the package.

How long does it take for probiotics to work for BV?

Probiotics for BV typically start working within a few days, but it may take up to four weeks for the full effect to be seen. It is important to take probiotics as directed and to be patient. Some people may need to take them for several months before they see any changes.

What foods have probiotics in them?

There are many different foods that contain probiotics. Some of the best sources include yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso soup, and tempeh. Probiotic-rich foods can help replenish the good bacteria in the body and promote a healthy balance.

When it comes to probiotics and vaginal health, yogurt is one of the best sources. Yogurt contains live and active cultures that can help replenish the good bacteria in the body. Make sure to choose a yogurt that is plain and unsweetened for the most benefits.

Sauerkraut is another excellent source of probiotics. This fermented cabbage dish is rich in live and active cultures that can help promote a healthy balance in the body.

Kimchi is a Korean dish made from fermented cabbage. It is rich in probiotics and other nutrients that can help improve vaginal health.

Can I get enough probiotics through food?

Most people don't get enough probiotics in their daily diet, so while eating a diet rich in probiotics may help increase your chances for better health, taking probiotics for vaginal health as a supplement will reduce your risks of vaginal health issues more than food alone.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, probiotics are a natural way to maintain vaginal health and there are many different types available. When choosing a probiotic supplement, it is important to look for one that contains live and active cultures. Also, make sure to choose a product that has been tested for purity and safety.

If you are looking for a natural way to improve your vaginal health, probiotics may be worth trying. But again, it is important to speak with your doctor first to ensure they are right for you.

10 Best Antifungal Tablets For Yeast Infections

10 Best Antifungal Tablets For Yeast InfectionsHealth & householdRecombu Product Features

1-Dose Yeast Infection Treatment Combination Pack containing an Ovule insert with the maximum strength dose available over-the-counter along with external itch cream for symptom relief

Ready-to-use Ovule insert contains 1200 mg Miconazole Nitrate with a disposable contoured applicator

Ovule insert stays in place and can be used day or night, making it a great solution for women who don't want to wait until bedtime to begin treating their yeast infection, or for those who exercise frequently or engage in high levels of activity

Relieves yeast infection symptoms 4x faster than the leading prescription pill

MONISTAT is the No.1 gynecologist-recommended brand

Product Features

Vaginal yeast infection treatment: 7 empty disposable applicators, 1 tube of antifungal cream (100 milligrams Miconazole Nitrate cream) and 1 tube of external anti-itch cream

Pregnant women and diabetics: The CDC recommends only a 7 day topical yeast infection treatment (consult a doctor before use)

Number 1 Doctor and Gynecologist Recommended brand that is a clinically proven vaginal antifungal treatment

Low dose option for women who want to treat with smaller doses of the active ingredient evenly throughout the week

Relieves associated external itching and irritation caused by yeast infections

Product Features

ACTIVE INGREDIENT: This product contains miconazole nitrate 2 percent, a vaginal antifungal, which compares to the active ingredient in Monistat 7

EXTERNAL ITCH CREAM: This product can also be used to relieve external vulvar itching and irritation due to a vaginal yeast infection. Contains miconazole nitrate 2 percent, a vaginal antifungal

7-DAY TREATMENT: Use this 7-day cream with the disposable applicators to cure most vaginal yeast infections and apply it externally to relieve vaginal itching

RELIEF WHEN YOU NEED IT: This vaginal yeast infection cream contains miconazole nitrate 2 percent to relieve external itching and irritation

A VAGINAL ANTIFUNGAL cream like Miconazole 7 will help to relieve itching and discomfort due to a vaginal yeast infection

hers

36 ratings

More info 4 Product Features

VAGINAL ANTIFUNGAL TREATMENT: "My vagina is on fire" – we've been there too. Miconazole is an over the counter medication that treats those horrendous vaginal yeast infections by controlling the growth of the fungus that causes the infection in the first place. Cute, we know. Each order contains 1 box with 3 applicators

ELIMINATES ITCHING & BURNING: When there's a fire, you call in the fire department. When you notice burning "down there," you call in hers Yeast Infection 3 Day Treatment. This antifungal medication cures most vaginal yeast infections and helps treat vaginal itching, burning, and discharge

3 DAY TREATMENT: Yeast infections are no one's idea of a good time, so don't let them linger. Hers Miconazole treats yeast infections and vaginal itching in just 3 days so you can get back to living without "the itch"

WHEN TO USE: Noticing a burning, stinging, or itching sensation down there? Perhaps some funky discharge or discomfort and pain during intercourse? This Azole antifungal has compounds that can control and inhibit the growth of most fungi in the body and skin, yeast being one of them

HOW TO USE: This treatment comes with three applicators (similar to a tampon). Insert the applicator into your vagina, push the medication out until the device is empty, then remove and discard the applicator. Use Miconazole at night before bed to prevent leakage and use for three nights in a row

Product Features

EFFECTIVE TREATMENT: Effective treatment for Athletes Foot, Jock Itch, Skin Fungus, Nail Fungus, and ringworm.

RELIEVING FORMULA: Relieves Itching, Burning, Cracking & Scaling. Antifungal Cream Skin. Compare to the active ingredients in the leading name brand.

FRESH PRODUCT: Our Customers will always receive a fresh product. Globe Clotrimazole is one of the most popular pharmacist recommended brands in the United States.

PROVEN TO CURE MOST JOCK ITCH AND RINGWORM: Treat tinea cruris, commonly known as jock itch, with the proven power of Globe clotrimazole cream.

BULK BUY: You received five tubes of Globe Clotrimazole 1% Cream for the price if one tube of the leading name brand.

AZO

13816 ratings

More info 6 Product Features

MULTI-BENEFIT FORMULA for vaginal and yeast infection symptom relief.* Vaginal and yeast infections share similar bothersome symptoms (itching, burning, odor, and discharge).*

ONE CONVENIENT PILL. Only AZO Yeast Plus homeopathic medicine combines yeast infection and vaginal symptom relief in one convenient pill.*

RELIEVES VAGINAL ITCHING AND BURNING.* 75% of women will experience a vaginal yeast infection in her lifetime, and other vaginal symptoms are even more common.- You can get symptom relief with AZO Yeast Plus.

RELIEVES OCCASIONAL VAGINAL DISCHARGE AND ODOR.* AZO Yeast Plus is a unique formula that relieves the symptoms of yeast infections, PLUS other vaginal symptoms like odor and discharge.

INGREDIENTS RECOGNIZED by the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States. Stimulates your body's natural defenses to help restore balance.

LACTOSE FREE. Safe. Gentle.

During the summer months products may arrive warm but Amazon stores and ships products in accordance with manufacturers' recommendations, when provided.

Product Features

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: This combo pack contains miconazole nitrate 1200 mg (in vaginal insert) and miconazole nitrate 2 percent (external cream), which are both vaginal antifungals. Compare to the active ingredients in Monistat 1 Combination Pack

1-DAY TREATMENT: Cures most vaginal yeast infections using 1 vaginal softgel insert with 1 flexible applicator plus external cream for itch relief

EXTERNAL VULVAR ITCH CREAM: This combo pack also includes an external cream to relieve external vulvar itching and irritation due to a vaginal yeast infection. Contains miconazole nitrate 2 percent, a vaginal antifungal

USE the softgel insert with 1 flexible applicator day or night to treat and cure most vaginal yeast infections

A VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION treatment like Miconazole Nitrate Vaginal Insert (1200 mg) and Miconazole Nitrate Cream (2 percent); 1-Day Treatment for Vaginal Yeast Infection will help to relieve uncomfortable symptoms and cure most vaginal yeast infections

Product Features

ACTIVE INGREDIENT: This product contains miconazole nitrate 4 percent (200 mg in each applicatorful), a vaginal antifungal to treat yeast infection, which compares to the active ingredient in Monistat 3

3-DAY VAGINAL TREATMENT includes 3 applicators prefilled with 4 percent miconazole nitrate cream to help treat vaginal yeast infection

USE one applicator at bedtime for 3 nights in a row and throw the applicator away after each use. Read the enclosed consumer information leaflet for complete directions and information

YEAST INFECTION RELIEF: This vaginal antifungal cures most vaginal yeast infections and associated vaginal itching and discomfort

Amazon Basic Care MICONAZOLE 3, Miconazole Nitrate Vaginal Cream (4 percent) cures most yeast infections

Vagisil

2286 ratings

More info 9 Product Features

Vagisil convenient vaginal antifungal treatment that gets to work in a single dose

1 step application treatment cures most vaginal yeast infections with just 1 dose. Same effective ingredient as Monistat, for less

Comes with a no-touch, pre-filled applicator containing tioconazole antifungal (6.5%)

For use by adults and children 12 years of age and over: Insert entire contents of applicator into the vagina at bedtime. Throw applicator away after use

Before using this product, read the enclosed consumer information leaflet for complete directions and information

Product Features

One bottle of 60 YeastGard Advanced Homeopathic Remedy Capsules

Paraben free alternative vaginal yeast infection treatment helps treat the symptoms of a vaginal infection

YeastGard feminine products are an alternative yeast infection treatment for women with calcium carbonate, potassium chloride and stone root aids in relief in a LactoSpore probiotic base

If taken daily, this women's health product may help reduce the frequency of recurring yeast infection symptoms for improved vaginal health and reduced vaginal itching

What Is A Vaginal Yeast Infection?

A vaginal yeast infection is an overgrowth of fungus in the vagina that causes symptoms like itchiness, soreness, and discharge. Also known as vaginal candidiasis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, or candidal vaginitis, it is the second most common vaginal infection after bacterial vaginal infections. Approximately 1.4 million people seek outpatient treatment for vaginal yeast infections each year.

Symptoms typically resolve several days after starting medication, though treatment for recurring episodes may take longer. About 5-9% of people have four or more infections a year.

While vaginal yeast infections are uncomfortable, they are fairly easy to diagnose and treat. You can also take steps to reduce your risk of infection.

Common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include itching and soreness around your vulva or vagina. Vaginal discharge is common, but not everyone experiences it. You may have white, lumpy discharge sometimes described as looking like cottage cheese, or you may have more watery discharge.

Certain activities may aggravate your symptoms. New vaginal pain or discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse may also be signs that you are developing a vaginal yeast infection.

These symptoms are mild for most people. However, your symptoms may be more severe and include redness and swelling in the affected areas. Cracking in the vaginal skin is a less common symptom.

Vaginal yeast infection symptoms are similar to conditions like bacterial vaginosis, or BV (a vaginal infection caused by bacteria instead of yeast), some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and dermatitis (skin irritation). Reach out to a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms, as treatment options will vary depending on the cause.

Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a type of fungus that normally lives on your skin and in your body. Many people have small amounts of Candida in their lower intestinal tract, mouth, and vagina without any symptoms. A vaginal yeast infection occurs when the fungus grows out of proportion to the healthy bacteria in your vagina.

Certain factors increase your risk of developing vaginal yeast infections, including:

Pregnancy

Diabetes, a condition that affects how your body regulates glucose (sugar) levels

Medications like antibiotics (drugs that help treat certain bacterial infections), hormonal birth control methods, and certain types of chemotherapy (a treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells)

Stress

Poor sleep

Scented tampons or douches (devices that spray water into the vagina to clean it)

Contraceptive (birth control) devices like vaginal sponges, diaphragms, or intrauterine devices (IUDs)

A weakened immune system, which can be caused by things like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), chemotherapy, corticosteroids (drugs often used to treat autoimmune disorders, conditions in which the body attacks healthy cells, tissues, or organs), and medications taken after an organ transplant

To diagnose a vaginal yeast infection, your healthcare provider will begin by asking about your symptoms and examining your vulva and vagina. They will likely take a sample of your vaginal discharge to test for the presence of yeast. If you have recurring infections or severe symptoms, the provider may want to perform additional tests to determine the cause.

Wait for a diagnosis from a healthcare provider before trying any form of treatment. Symptoms of vaginal yeast infections are similar to other conditions. Treating the wrong condition can make your symptoms last longer and may even make your itchiness and irritation worse. It can also be a waste of money.

Vaginal yeast infections are treated with an antifungal or antimycotic. These medications kill and stop further growth of the fungus causing the infection. You might receive cream or a suppository (a plastic applicator that holds a capsule of cream) to insert inside your vagina.

Your healthcare provider might recommend an oral antifungal (by mouth, in pill form) like Azocan, Diflucan, or Canesten Thrush Oral Capsules (fluconazole) instead of a cream or suppository—for example, if you are menstruating, have severe symptoms, or have recurring infections.

Treatment usually lasts one, three, or six days. You may be put on a longer course of treatment if you have recurrent vaginal yeast infections. One common treatment is taking fluconazole orally multiple times several days apart and then once a week for six months or longer.

Most people start to feel better within a few days. Reach out to a healthcare provider if your symptoms don't resolve within a few days after ending treatment.

People with recurrent vaginal yeast infections or at a higher risk of developing infections may be able to identify the cause. For example, you might notice more infections after beginning a new long-term medication or hormonal birth control. However, you might not know what caused your infection. Whether or not you know the cause, you can take steps to reduce your risk of future yeast infections.

Only take antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare provider, and let them know if you're prone to vaginal yeast infections. Vaginal yeast infections are common during and after taking broad-spectrum antibiotics, which target many types of bacteria. If you have a history of developing vaginal yeast infections while on antibiotics, your provider may prescribe an anti-fungal to take at the beginning and end of your antibiotic course.

You can also reduce your risk of vaginal yeast infections by:

Avoiding douching

Avoiding scented products, including soaps, vaginal hygiene sprays, and tampons

Not wearing wet swimsuits for long periods of time

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels

Wearing tight or synthetic clothes might also help prevent vaginal yeast infections. However, more research is needed to determine whether or not this is a potential cause.

Frequent vaginal yeast infections may be a sign of an underlying condition. For example, diabetes and HIV can increase your risk of vaginal yeast infections, including recurrent infections.

Diabetes can increase your risk of yeast infections in several ways. Poorly controlled blood sugar can increase your risk of infection, as can sodium-glucose transport protein 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors—a class of medications used to treat diabetes by lowering blood sugar.

HIV may increase your risk of vaginal yeast infections because you're immunocompromised, meaning your immune defenses are weak and have a difficult time preventing infections.

You can work with your healthcare provider to manage conditions that might contribute to vaginal yeast infections.

Vaginal yeast infections are quite common, and you might experience them throughout your life. Though they can be inconvenient, uncomfortable, and sometimes painful, they are generally easy to treat. Many people recover within a few days. If you do not respond to the initial treatment, additional treatment can likely relieve your symptoms.

Identifying possible triggers, including stress, chronic illness, and antibiotic use, can help you take steps to prevent future infections.

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