How To Prevent Yeast Infections From Antibiotics
This article was medically reviewed by Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS. Luba Lee, FNP-BC is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and educator in Tennessee with over a decade of clinical experience. Luba has certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support , Emergency Medicine, Advanced Cardiac Life Support , Team Building, and Critical Care Nursing. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee in 2006.There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 99% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 536,414 times.
Recommended Reading: The Best Otc Yeast Infection Treatment
How Is A Yeast Infection Treated
Yeast infections are usually treated with antifungal medicine. See your doctor or nurse to make sure that you have a vaginal yeast infection and not another type of infection.
Your doctor or nurse can also give you a single dose of antifungal medicine taken by mouth, such as fluconazole . If you get more than four vaginal yeast infections a year, or if your yeast infection doesn’t go away after using over-the-counter treatment, you may need to take regular doses of antifungal medicine for up to six months.
How Common Are Yeast Infections
Approximately 75% of women will experience a vaginal yeast infection at least one time in their lives.
Research has shown that probiotics may support the natural balance of your microbiome and help with yeast infections. Probiotics contain bacteria that can help restore the balance of the vaginal microbiome. However, more research is needed to support this benefit.
Probiotics are found in fermented dairy products and foods, such as yogurt and kimchi. They also come in the form of supplements and suppositories.
IAN HOOTON / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Getty Images
Read Also: Can Birth Control Cause Yeast Infection
Essential Oil Of Oregano
Common oregano, or Origanum marjoram, is what you usually find in your grocery stores spice section. The oil of oregano used to treat yeast infections is not the same type, however.
Look for oil of oregano made from wild oregano, or Origanum vulgare.
A 2017 study found oregano essential oil to be effective in altering the growth of C. albicans.
Oil of oregano is a natural blood thinner, so dont use it if you take blood thinners for another health condition. In addition, dont use it if you have blood-clotting issues, such as from a vitamin K deficiency.
Remember not to take essential oils orally. Essential oils are meant to be inhaled as part of aromatherapy. While some studies are examining other ways to use essential oil of oregano, experts recommend diluting it in a carrier oil, such as olive or sweet almond oil, at this time.
Also Check: Best Treatment For A Urinary Tract Infection
Diet For A Yeast Infection
The foods you eat may be contributing to your recurring yeast infections. Yeast loves sugar. Avoiding the following foods can curb the growth of yeast in your body.
- White flour and rice
- Foods or drinks fermented with yeast
- Foods made up of simple sugars
Although avoiding these foods may help you avoid a yeast infection, this diet can be difficult to maintain. Fortunately, you may not need to completely eliminate these foods to see positive effects in the number or severity of yeast infections you get. Cutting back in small amounts may help.
It may also help to increase your intake of healthy proteins and fats and increase your intake of low-starch fruits and vegetables. Eating a low-sugar diet doesnt mean you have to go hungry you just need to eat more from other food groups.
Read Also: Cure Yeast Infection Over The Counter
Are There Any Risks Associated With Taking Probiotics For Yeast Infections
Probiotics can be taken orally or vaginally and are available in many different forms such as pills, powders, liquids, and suppositories. Probiotics are generally considered safe and are generally well tolerated.
However, there is a risk of side effects such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. When taken orally, probiotics can also potentially interact with certain medications such as antacids, antibiotics, and immunosuppressants.
Therefore, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking probiotics if you are taking any medications. Probiotics may also not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions such as Crohns disease, ulcerative colitis, pancreatitis, and kidney disease. Therefore, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking probiotics if you have any medical conditions.
How Are Urinary Tract Infections Diagnosed
Your doctor will usually be able to tell whats causing your pain by your description of your symptoms, along with a physical exam. Testing your urine can also help your doctor identify what type of infection you have. Usually, a sample of your urine is taken in your doctors office and sent to a lab to check for infection.
Also Check: Yeast Infection In Dog Ears Pictures
The Frequency Of Yeast Infections Is Directly Related To The Quantity Of Sugar You Consume
The frequency of yeast infections is directly related to the quantity of sugar you consume. Yeast can live on sugar, so its no surprise that an overconsumption of sugar can result in a yeast infection. Its important to have a diet low in sugars and carbohydrates, as this will limit yeast growth and reduce the frequency of yeast infections. This article discusses how having a diet rich in natural sources like fruit and vegetables can help with reducing your risk of recurrent yeast infections.
Did you know that the frequency of yeast infections is directly related to the quantity of sugar you consume? Rumor has it that women are more susceptible to yeast infections because their natural defenses against yeast are lower. This means that if your diet consists largely of sugary foods, youre more likely to get a yeast infection, but men too can be affected by this pesky problem.
Do you find yourself suffering from frequent yeast infections?
If you consume too many sweets, theres a good chance youll have a yeast infection. A recent study published in BMJ-RND, the Journal of the British Medical Association, found that people who ate at least 15 teaspoons of sugar per day were more than 4 times as likely to experience recurrent yeast infections. Furthermore, the study also found that patients with diabetes had over 31% higher risk for an oral yeast infection if they consumed 20 or more teaspoons of sugar per day.
Trial Ii: Treatment Of Bv And Yeast Infection With Increased Dose Frequency Of Ecovag
In the second trial, women were recruited in the three groups as follows group-1: 11 women with BV receiving antibiotics and EcoVag®, group-2: 9 women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis receiving anti-fungal drug and EcoVag® and group-3: 10 women with Candida infection receiving only the anti-fungal drug. Women in group-1 received a similar antibiotic treatment for BV as in the first trial and a prolonged treatment with EcoVag®. After each antibiotic course, EcoVag® capsules were given for 10 days and after the second menstruation once every week for the next four months . Patients sexual partners were also treated with oral clindamycin.
In group-2, women with Candida infection were treated with anti-fungal medication and EcoVag® capsules. They were given 28 days course of fluconazole 50 mg every day and vaginal EcoVag® capsules for 10 days from day 18 to 28 . After the first menstruation, EcoVag® capsules were given again for 10 days along with a weekly course of 200 mg fluconazole for two months. This was followed by a third course of fluconazole, where women were given 200 mg of the drug once every two weeks for the next three months. After the second menstruation, EcoVag® capsules were given once every week for four months.
Women with candidiasis in group-3 received a similar anti-fungal treatment but no EcoVag® capsules .
Recommended Reading: How To Check For Ear Infection Without Otoscope
Read Also: Hydrogen Peroxide For Yeast Infections
What Exams Do Doctors Use To Diagnose A Yeast Infection And A Uti
Urine tests diagnose a UTI. Abnormalities can appear on a dipstick urinalysis test that suggest a UTI is present. Sometimes medical professionals take a culture of the urine to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection. A physical exam and an examination of a sample of the vaginal discharge in the laboratory can confirm the presence of a yeast infection.
Dont Miss: Can Keflex Be Used For Tooth Infection
There Are Dozens Of Treatments For Vaginal Yeast Infections Which One Is Right For You
Getty Images
Yeast infections are caused by the Candida genus of yeasts , most often Candida albicans.
Research shows that C. albicans colonizes the vaginas of about 20 percent of women and 30 percent of pregnant women.
Though this colonization doesnt cause symptoms, symptomatic yeast infections can develop when the balance of microbial communities within the body gets thrown off by things like medication , hormonal changes, and the overuse of feminine hygiene products.
There are numerous drugs that can be used to treat vaginal yeast infections.
They can be purchased over-the-counter or with a prescription, and take the form of an antifungal cream, ointment, suppository, or medicated tampon. An oral tablet is also available.
Its important to get diagnosed by your doctor before trying OTC drugs especially if youve never had a yeast infection before because the symptoms of yeast infections are similar to other types of vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis .
Read Also: Vitamin C For Bacterial Infections
Read Also: Is Nutritional Yeast Good For Dogs
How Can I Reduce My Risk Of A Yeast Infection
You can often prevent vaginal yeast infections by making a few lifestyle changes. These changes can include:
- Not douching douching can kill bacteria that actually control fungus.
- Avoiding the use of feminine deodorants.
- Not using scented tampons or pads.
- Changing out of wet clothing, like bathing suits or gym clothes, as soon as you can.
- Wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes.
- Using water-based sexual lubricants.
- Keeping your blood sugar levels in a normal range if you have diabetes.
The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are similar to other conditions. If you have any questions, a physical exam by your healthcare provider will help.
Can A Yeast Infection Be Prevented
You can prevent some yeast infections by doing these things:
- Use good oral hygiene to help prevent yeast infection in your mouth . This includes brushing and flossing your teeth every day and using mouthwash as needed.
- Wear cotton underwear to help to prevent a vaginal or genital yeast infection. If you are a woman and get vaginal yeast infections often, you may want to take probiotics.
- Keep areas where skin rubs up against skin dry and try to reduce friction.
Dont Miss: Can Men Get Yeast Infections From Women
Also Check: Yeast Infection Treatment While Pregnant
Clotrimazole Taro Clotrimazole 7 Vaginal Cream
When a product says that it will work in as little as one day, buyers tend to gravitate towards it. However, the Taro Clotrimazole 7 Day Vaginal Cream definitely provides results that are worth waiting for, despite the relatively longer treatment period.
Able to resolve yeast infection in 7 days, this treatment is for those who want something that will get rid of the problem efficiently and thoroughly. Keep in mind though that because the dosage of the active ingredient is much lower than in other products, treatment periods can extend much longer depending on the extent of the infection.
Who Is At Risk For A Yeast Infection
Anyone can get a yeast infection. Those at higher risk for it include:
- Babies or incontinent adults wearing diapers
- People with large skin folds
- People who wear dentures
|
The symptoms of a yeast infection may look like other skin conditions. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
Also Check: Can Clarithromycin Be Used To Treat A Urinary Tract Infection
Also Check: Gluten Free Bread Yeast Free
What Are The Risk Factors For A Vaginal Yeast Infection
Any woman of any age can get a yeast infection. In fact, most women will get a yeast infection at some point in their lifetime, but the risk of developing a yeast infection is higher:
- During the childbearing years .
- At the time of initiating sexual activity for the first time .
- If you have high estrogen levels .
- If you have a weakened immune system or diabetes .
Related Conditions To Yeast Infections
Vaginal concerns can be a common occurrence. Sometimes the cause is obvious, such as changes in menstrual cycle, sexual activity, or a new product you may be using. Other times, the cause may not be as clear. If youve had a yeast infection before, it may be easy to assume your yeast infection symptoms have the same cause, but that is not always the case. There are a few conditions with symptoms that can be mistaken for yeast infection symptoms.
Don’t Miss: What Medicine Treats Yeast Infection
Look For Otc Yeast Infection Medications Ending In Azole Miconazole Clotrimazole
Dr. Brandye says these are easily accessible and will treat a yeast infection. However, sometimes there can be resistance, or a different species of yeast that wont respond to these medications, she adds. In these cases, youd wanna call up your doc to get a prescription for an oral medication like fluconazole.
Is There Something I Should Do After Acquiring A Over The Counter Yeast Infection Treatment Reviews
When a complete stranger can hear my over the counter yeast infection treatment reviewss, I am concerned. Guns are not viewed positively by uninitiated individuals.
Our range trips make us seem like we are members of some obscure club. You are welcome to ask for my assistance. I am happy to assist you if you need anything else.
Recommended Reading: Does Zpack Help With Sinus Infection
Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Yeast Infection Man
What Is A Yeast Infection And What Are The Symptoms
Most fungal infections are caused by Candida yeast. Symptoms include:
- vaginal itching
- discharge and pain during urination or sex
The most common fungal infections are yeast vaginitis which can be treated with over-the-counter yeast infection treatments such as Monistat 7-day ovules for fungal infections. However, some women may need a prescription yeast infection treatment such as Diflucan for yeast infections.
Risk Factors For Getting Thrush Are:
- Age born early or younger than 6 months or low birth weight
- Getting it during birth from the parent who has an unknown vaginal yeast infection
- Breastfeeding with an untreated yeast infection of the breast
- Using human milk from a pump that has not been properly sterilized
- Sucking on a pacifier or bottle too often and for too long
- Using an inhaler for asthma without rinsing the mouth after use
- Recent history of child or nursing parent taking antibiotic medicine to treat a bacterial infection
- A weakened immune system
- Thrush in the mouth:
- Can be on the tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, or inside of the cheeks.
- Begins as tiny, flat, white, or creamy yellow spots. These spots come together and form cheesy patches that look like cottage cheese. The spots are often mistaken for milk patches. Sometimes it looks like a white coating.
- Cannot be removed with a soft cloth or a cotton-tipped swab without causing bleeding.
- May cause pain while sucking or swallowing. Your child may not drink or eat as much as usual.
You May Like: Can You Check For Ear Infection At Home
Recommended Reading: Why Do I Get Yeast Infections So Often
How Should This Medicine Be Used
Fluconazole comes as a tablet and a suspension to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day, with or without food. You may need to take only one dose of fluconazole, or you may need to take fluconazole for several weeks or longer. The length of your treatment depends on your condition and on how well you respond to fluconazole. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take fluconazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor may tell you to take a double dose of fluconazole on the first day of your treatment. Follow these directions carefully.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
You should begin to feel better during the first few days of treatment with fluconazole. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, call your doctor.
Continue to take fluconazole until your doctor tells you that you should stop, even if you feel better. Do not stop taking fluconazole without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking fluconazole too soon, your infection may come back after a short time.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer’s information for the patient.
Best Probiotic To Prevent Yeast Infections
Using probiotics to prevent yeast infection was suggested by the medical literature to be very useful. A common best practice done in most studies is using a mixture of the Lactobacillus probiotic strains , which are considered the best probiotic to prevent yeast infections. The Lactobacillus probiotic complex we use in our protocol for yeast infection prevention is FloraTrex and it has shown to be very safe and effective.
In addition to using probiotics to prevent yeast infection, it is important to be aware of common causes and risk factors of yeast infection. The effectiveness of any protocol for preventing yeast infection may be different from one person to another, as there are many different yeast infection causes and risk factors to consider. Taking probiotics for yeast infection or any yeast infection pill will not always prevent the yeast infection. Using probiotics to prevent yeast infection however, can reduce the chances of developing a yeast infection .
To see a list of common yeast infection causes and risk factors, see candida overgrowth causes.
Read Also: Do Antibiotics Cure Yeast Infections
Don’t Miss: Yeast Infection For Dogs Ears