Antibiotics and Yeast Infection Growth

Yeast is an organism that is naturally present in our bodies. Our bodies also have other micro-organisms that maintain and fight off evasive and harmful bacteria that can cause us infections and diseases.

When we suffer from some type of infection, for example a common sinus infection, we are normally prescribed some form of antibiotic treatment.
While this treatment may very well eradicate the infection, it can also have undesirable side effects which can cause conditions for other types of infections to manifest in our bodies. One of these being an overgrowth of yeast.

When we are prescribed antibiotics, they enter our system and attack the bad bacteria that are making us ill. But there are some consequences that also occur. While antibiotics kill off the bad bacteria, they can also destroy the good bacteria in our system. This leaves an opening for the yeast to grow. The bacteria that protects against infections have been destroyed by the antibiotics. That's why it is common for people to acquire yeast infections. Women are especially prone to get a vaginal yeast infection, when on antibiotic.

Because vaginal yeast infection is one of the most common types of yeast infections, women can take some precautions to help prevent yeast infections that occur from antibiotics. Personal Hygiene and adjustments in your diet are some ways to prevent yeast infection.

Following some suggestions bellow can help women avoid the onset of yeast overgrowth in the vagina.

Personal Hygiene:

- Keep your vaginal area clean and dry. Moisture can cause the overgrowth of yeast.

- Avoid wearing tight garment and clothing. Tight pants, pantyhose and undergarments that don't allow air to circulate around the vaginal area can cause extra moisture. Cotton is a good choice for undergarments. Cotton is a breathable material and prevents accumulation of extra moisture.

- Avoid Vaginal Douches. The douch can refresh but it also removes the lining of the vagina that helps to maintain a good pH level which fights yeast and bad bacteria.

- Avoid feminine sprays. The perfume can cause irritation.

- Avoid the use of Tampons. They cause extra moisture inside the vagina and cause the growth of extra yeast.

- The use of only unscented and white toilet paper and wiping from front to back to avoid any transfer of bacteria from the anal to the vagina can help avoid infections.

Diet:

- Avoid sugars. An increase in sugar intake causes yeast growth. Avoid food and drinks that are high in sugar.

- Avoid any type of food or liquids that are fermented with yeast, such as many alcoholic drinks and breads made with white flours.

- Adding yogurt to your diet you can help your body increase the number of good bacteria (probiotics) which help fight bad bacteria and yeast from multiplying.

These are just a few suggestions you can consider when fighting yeast infections.
It is always important to consult a physician to make sure that your symptoms are actually a yeast infection. Many types of vaginal conditions can present similar symptoms.

Thank you for reading,
Constantine Kara

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Yeast And Fungal Infection