Preventing Yeast Infections: Simple Steps That Work

Tired of dealing with the itch, discharge, and the awkward pause before sex because of a yeast infection? You don’t have to accept repeat infections as normal. Most vaginal yeast infections are caused by Candida overgrowth, and small, practical changes cut the risk a lot. Here are clear, no-nonsense strategies you can start using today.

Everyday habits that cut risk

What you wear and how you care for your body matters. Try these habits:

• Pick breathable fabrics. Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight synthetic leggings for long periods. Breathable fabrics reduce moisture where yeast thrives.
• Change wet clothes quickly. Don’t sit in sweaty gym clothes or a wet swimsuit. Change into dry clothes soon after workouts or swimming.
• Skip scented products. Avoid scented douches, wipes, and perfumes around the vulva. Fragrances can irritate and disturb the normal balance of bacteria and yeast.
• Use gentle cleansers. Wash the outside only with warm water or a mild, unscented soap. The vagina cleans itself—inside washing can make things worse.
• Limit sugar and processed carbs. High-sugar diets may encourage yeast overgrowth in some people. Cutting down on sugary snacks can help reduce recurrences.

Medical and smart-care moves

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medical options and small behavior shifts make a big difference. Over-the-counter antifungals like topical azoles (cream, ointment, or suppository) usually work for uncomplicated cases. If infections keep coming back—four or more a year—talk to your clinician about a longer treatment or a weekly maintenance dose.

Antibiotics can trigger yeast infections by killing protective bacteria. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, ask whether you need them and how to watch for yeast symptoms. For people with diabetes, tighter blood sugar control reduces recurrence risk. Probiotics show mixed results, but some women find relief using specific strains of Lactobacillus; discuss options with your provider.

During sex, use condoms if you or your partner has symptoms. Avoid oral sex if you or a partner currently has an oral yeast infection. If symptoms are severe—fever, pelvic pain, unusual discharge—or if you’re pregnant or immunocompromised, see a clinician instead of self-treating.

Small habits add up. Start by switching to cotton underwear, changing out of wet clothes quickly, and skipping scented products. Keep a simple symptom log (dates, recent antibiotics, new products) to spot patterns. That log helps your clinician make the right call faster.

One last tip: if you’ve tried OTC treatments twice and the infection returns or gets worse, get medical advice. A quick check-up can save weeks of discomfort and help find the right long-term plan for you.