Managing a yeast infection can be uncomfortable and awkward. So, learning how to prevent the development of yeast infections naturally is an effective way to avoid any of the unpleasant symptoms that yeast infections bring.

The 3 Causes of Yeast Infections

Understanding the cause of yeast infections can be helpful when it comes to learning more about how to prevent them from developing. Yeast infections develop due to a vaginal pH imbalance, compromised immunity, or a hormonal balance present within the body. When it comes to vaginal pH imbalances this becomes an issue when there is an overproduction of the yeast candida or an overgrowth of bad bacteria. This can be caused by using irritating products that disrupt a healthy vaginal flora, taking medications such as antibiotics, or poor feminine hygiene. In the case of yeast infections and compromised immunity this occurs when there is an underlying condition or inflammation present within the body.

If you have a cold or virus this weakens your immunity and increases your risk of developing a yeast infection.  The same is true if you are managing a chronic condition or an autoimmune disease, the fact that your body’s immune system is already under attack can cause you to cycle through chronic inflammations. Especially if you are dealing with a flare-up or your chronic condition is not being properly managed. As for hormonal imbalances and yeast infections, taking an oral contraceptive can disrupt normal levels of estrogen and progesterone within the body. The same issue can occur for women that are in the beginning stages of perimenopause or menopause. These hormonal imbalances can contribute to a rapid decrease in estrogen levels and cause progesterone to become elevated. This creates an environment for overproduction of yeast.

Prevent Yeast Infections Naturally with Your Diet

When it comes to preventing yeast infections naturally there are two simple ways you can do so.

First, focus on consuming a well-balanced diet that is full of whole minimally processed foods, probiotic-rich foods, probiotic supplements, and low sugar foods. Following a diet that is comprised of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats will ensure that you are getting adequate amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Antioxidants are beneficial when it comes to decreasing oxidative stress within the body. Whereas fiber-rich foods and healthy fats can aid in balancing hormones and sugar levels naturally. Also consuming a variety of herbs can provide your body with anti-inflammatory properties that can help to decrease inflammation. 

Fermented foods such as kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, and yogurt with live an active cultures create a thriving and diverse colony of good bacteria in your gut and your vaginal flora as well. The more diverse the microbiome the better it is at building a strong immune system. A strong immune system helps to prevent bad bacteria and yeast from growing and populating. Also, look into investing in a high-quality probiotic that contains the probiotic strand lactobacillus. The body produces lactobacillus naturally. It is responsible for preventing the overproduction of candida and bad bacteria in the vagina. Following this regimen ensures that you are covering all your bases. Doing all you can with your nutrition will create a hostile environment for the growth of yeast.

Prevent Yeast Infections Naturally with Stellar Feminine Hygiene

This should come as no surprise but you should definitely make sure you follow a healthy feminine care regimen.  Some unhealthy practices that you should steer clear of include douching, scented feminine care products, improper cleansing, and poor daily hygiene.

Douching may seem like a healthy practice but it is quite harmful to your vaginal flora. When you douche you are removing all the good beneficial bacteria that helps to protect you from vaginal infections. This creates an opportunity for the bad bacteria and yeast to grow and produce leaving you vulnerable to yeast infections.

You can develop issues with feminine odor when using products that claim to “neutralize odor”. They are also responsible for causing yeast infections. The fragrance contained in these products can wreak havoc on the vaginal flora and cause yeast and bacteria to grow. This can increase dryness, cause itching and irritation, as well as lead to yeast and bacterial infections. Opt to use unscented feminine care products that do not contain fragrance or irritating soaps and dyes.

Other basic feminine hygiene habits to remember is to make sure that you are changing pads and tampons regularly. If you find that you have an issue with chronic yeast infections opt to transition to a menstrual cup. When using the menstrual cup it is also important to make sure you are sanitizing and disinfecting often.  This will prevent the growth of bacteria and germs. Lastly, make sure to cleanse your intimate area daily and change out of sweaty damp clothing. Wear cotton underwear in place of silk or satin panties. Go commando every now and then so your lady parts can breathe.

Main Takeaway

Following these steps should help to protect you from having issues with yeast infections. Especially if you find that you have issues with chronic yeast infections. If you find that these preventative methods do not work and over the counter medication does not help to resolve your issue with recurrent yeast infections visiting with your doctor is important. There may be an underlying issue that could be contributing to recurrent bouts of yeast infection that needs to be addressed.

About the Author.

Hi, my name is Kathleen but you can call me Kat. I am an Esthetician, Lifestyle Wellness Coach, and Writer. My intention is to provide you with education and awareness about women’s health, nutrition, fitness, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. I primarily help women that are seeking holistic and natural solutions to managing their chronic condition, improving their lifestyle and combating anti-aging concerns. I offer coaching programs and courses that are designed to help you redefine your health and defy aging.  You can find my content on a variety of social media platforms such as  YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.

If you take the opportunity to visit me on my other platforms don’t hesitate to leave a message, I would love to hear from you!