10 Easy Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Vaginal Yeast Infections

Vaginal yeast infections are more common than you would think. It is estimated that 3 in 4 women worldwide are infected with thrush at some time, and one-third of them have a recurring infection at least once a year.

Luckily, preventing the infection is simple. Here are ten easy-to-follow lifestyle hacks to prevent vaginal thrush.

1. Keep the groin area dry by wearing cotton underwear instead of nylon or synthetic materials.

‍Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments. Wearing cotton underwear is crucial because cotton is breathable, allowing air to circulate and moisture to evaporate. Synthetic fabrics like nylon or spandex trap moisture, making it easier for yeast to multiply. Consider changing your underwear after exercise or any activity that causes sweating to keep the area as dry as possible.

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2. Wear loose clothing such as skirts or baggy trousers. Avoid tights, especially on warm days.

Tight-fitting clothes, such as leggings or skinny jeans, can trap heat and moisture, creating a favorable environment for yeast. Loose clothing promotes airflow and reduces friction, keeping your skin cooler and drier. On particularly warm days, opt for skirts, dresses, or loose trousers, and avoid wearing tights for extended periods.

3. Prefer showers and cool baths over soaking in a hot tub.

Soaking in hot water for long periods can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina, weakening your defenses against yeast infections. It’s best to limit hot baths, especially those with added bath oils or bubbles, as they may irritate the skin. If you do take baths, keep them short and use lukewarm water.

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4. Avoid scented soaps, bubble baths, or bath additives that include fragrances.

Fragrances and perfumes can inflame the vaginal area.

Many personal care products, like scented soaps, body washes, or douches, can upset your vagina’s natural pH balance. The vaginal environment should remain slightly acidic to prevent infections. Stick to pH-balanced, unscented products specifically designed for sensitive skin, and avoid vaginal douching altogether, as it can lead to a higher risk of infections.

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5. Introduce probiotics into your diet.

The easiest way to boost your gut flora is by consuming fresh bioactive yogurt regularly. Good bacteria block the growth of bacteria that causes candida. Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus, which help maintain a healthy balance in your gut and vagina. You can get probiotics from foods like yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and fermented vegetables like kimchi or sauerkraut. You can also consider probiotic supplements, especially if you’ve recently taken antibiotics, as these medications can sometimes kill off the good bacteria along with the bad.

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6. Practice good hygiene after using the toilet.

Always wipe from front to back, as it will prevent any candida from the bowel from potentially enter in the vagina, as the yeast from your bowel can sometimes spread and cause an infection. In addition to wiping front to back, make sure to change out wet clothes, such as swimsuits, as soon as possible, as moisture can also promote yeast growth.

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7. If you have diabetes, maintain strict control of your blood sugar levels.

For women with diabetes, maintaining blood sugar levels is essential because high blood sugar can lead to increased sugar in vaginal secretions, which fuels yeast growth. Work with your healthcare provider to manage your diabetes effectively through diet, exercise, and medication to reduce the risk of infections.

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8. Reduce your sugar intake; it’s good for your vaginal health and overall well-being.

Excessive sugar intake can increase your risk of vaginal yeast infections. Sugar feeds yeast and affects your body’s ability to regulate yeast levels. Reducing sugar in your diet can go a long way in preventing infections. Focus on reducing your intake of refined sugars, found in candy, sugary drinks, and processed foods. Instead, opt for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which offer the nutrients your body needs without spiking blood sugar.

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9. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.

Scientific research suggests that excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of several diseases, including candidiasis (vaginal yeast infection). Alcohol can disrupt your body’s natural balance, including its ability to maintain a healthy immune system. Chronic drinking can also affect gut health, which in turn influences vaginal health. Stick to moderate consumption—no more than one drink per day—to support both your immune system and overall health.

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10. If necessary, use a vaginal lubricant during intercourse or sexual activities.

Any damage to the vaginal tissues can increase the risk of vaginal thrush. Vaginal dryness, often due to hormonal changes like those during menopause, can lead to irritation and microtears in the vaginal tissue during sex, creating openings for yeast to grow. Using a water-based lubricant can reduce friction and keep the vaginal tissues intact. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, which can disrupt the natural pH of the vagina and increase the risk of infection.

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By following these practical, easy-to-implement tips, you can help keep vaginal yeast infections at bay and maintain a balanced, healthy vaginal environment. Making small adjustments in your everyday habits—whether it’s what you wear, how you eat, or what products you use—can have a significant impact on your overall vaginal health.

Remember, prevention is better than treatment. Your well-being depends on your lifestyle choices. Be in charge of your health, and stay healthy and happy!