How to Avoid Vaginal Infection

Itching, burning, inflammation, unpleasant odour, or change in vaginal discharge indicates vaginal infection. Vaginal infections are of different types – Bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection, and trichomoniasis – and need to be diagnosed by a medical professional before administering any type of treatment. Depending on the kind of infection you are suffering with,the course of treatment is determined.

Vaginal infections are caused due to simple reasons like using unhygienic washrooms, or uncleaned towels. Infection can also develop from sexual contact and course of antibiotics.

The effect of infection can be annoying and sometimes painful as well. Therefore, you must have the knowledge of the ways to avoid any infection at the first place.

How to Avoid Vaginal Infection

1. Maintain hygiene

Cleanliness and hygiene is the first and the foremost thing to reduce the risk of infection. Vagina is sensitive organ of your body. Hence, it needs special care. Always use gentle soap and clean towels during bath. Use soft tissues in toilet. Don’t wipe from back to front as it will bring bowel bacteria to your vagina which can cause infection. Products like sprays and deodorants, Vaseline, bath oils, talc can cause irritation and infection as well.

2. Cotton undergarments

Moisture provides an environment which aids the growth of yeast and bacteria, which lead to infection. Cotton has capillary properties. It sucks off the moisture,thereby keeping the vaginal area cool and dry. Wearing cotton undergarments helps keeping vagina dry. Avoid synthetic and nylon undergarments.

3. Mild detergents for washing undergarments

Laundry can, too, be responsible for infection. Strong detergents have certain chemicals which and fabric softeners can cause irritation in vagina. Use mild detergents and rinse thoroughly until the detergent is washed off completely.

4. Fix your diet

Nutrition is the most important factor for health, and it stands true for your vagina as well. Vegetables like cabbage, broccoli help in reducing the risk of vaginal infection. Citrus fruits strengthen your immune system which in turn fights against bacterial attacks. Garlic is a natural antibiotic that keep bacteria and viruses away. Stay away from overdose of alcohol and sugar.

5. Consume Probiotics

Probiotics are the good bacteria that promote various health benefits in your body. They are present in majority in your digestive system and also in your vagina. These “good bacteria” inhibits the growth of pathogens – the disease causing bacteria and viruses – which can cause infection and other diseases in your vagina.For prevention of infection, you can take probiotic rich foods like yogurt. You can also take probiotic drinks which are rich in bacteria Lactobacillus.

Vaginal infection is both vexing and embarrassing. Vaginal infections in most of the cases get cured by home remedies. But if the infection remains for prolonged cases, then you must visit your doctor as the infection may give rise to other serious diseases.If you take care of aforesaid points, your vagina will stay healthy and infection free. In addition to the above points, you can also set up a frequency to visit doctor for regular check-up of your vagina.