Combating a yeast infection on antibiotics
Q How can I avoid getting a yeast infection when I have to take antibiotics? A Most women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their lives. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 75 percent of all adult women have had at least one such infection.
Q: How can I avoid getting a yeast infection when I have to take antibiotics?
A: Most women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their lives. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 75 percent of all adult women have had at least one such infection.
A healthy vagina is naturally acidic and contains helpful bacteria to fend off infections and maintain a normal pH level.
Oftentimes, taking an antibiotic can interfere with this normal balance. Clinically known as vulvovaginal candidiasis, yeast infections occur when there is an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina.
Symptoms of a yeast infection include irritation, itching, redness, pain while urinating, and thick, clumpy, odorless discharge.
The good news: You can take preventive measures to help decrease your chances of an infection while on antibiotics.
Here are a few tips:
Eat a balanced diet. A nutritious diet and drinking plenty of fluids are key to vaginal health. Although it is not scientifically proven to help, some women will drink cranberry juice or eat foods with lactobacillus organisms, such as yogurt.
Practice good hygiene. Keep the vaginal area clean using a mild, unscented soap.
Wear breathable underwear. To keep the vaginal area dry, wear cotton underwear or underwear with a cotton strip.
Avoid tight-fitted clothing. This type of clothing, such as panty hose, can increase body heat and moisture.
Take a probiotic. This can help replace the loss of the beneficial bacteria from taking antibiotics.
If you suspect you have a yeast infection, consult with your gynecologist before purchasing an over-the-counter remedy. Your gynecologist will take a culture to determine whether you do have an infection, or if there is another cause for symptoms, and can inform you of the best treatment options.
- Diane Robinson, gynecologist at Nazareth Hospital