Most women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their lives. In fact, statistics show that 3 out of every 4 women will get them. While it is possible for men to get them as well (and even animals too!), women are by far more likely to suffer through them. For most women it is quite rare and not something they are overly concerned about but for others it is a chronic issue. No matter how often you get them it is best to learn about preventing yeast infections because, as they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

•  Keep the affected area dry

While people can get yeast infections in many different areas of the body, the most common for women is a vaginal yeast infection. This is because this area of the body is ideally suited to growing the candida bacteria which causes the infection. When preventing yeast infections of the vagina the easiest thing to do is to make sure to the underwear made of 100% cotton. This will help keep the area dry which allows the body to manage the bacteria better

• Use Only Water Based Lubricants

Many sexually active women use some sort of lubricant to assist in sexual intercourse. This is a good idea as improper lubrication during sex can cause small cuts or sores which can increase the risk of yeast infections. However, when working on preventing yeast infections it is important to never use any petroleum based lubricants. This is because it can cause irritation or hold the bacteria in the vaginal area which causes the infections. Water based lubricant is very effective and won’t cause this problem.

• Wipe Front To Back

After a bowel movement it is very important that ladies wipe from front to back. If you wipe the other way it can cause fecal matter to go from the intestinal tract into the vaginal area which makes the candida bacteria grow much faster and can also cause other medical problems. Simply wiping from front to back can help to prevent many problems.

• Eat Yogurt

Eating just a single cup of yogurt per day can help in preventing yeast infections. This is because yogurt has healthy ‘active cultures’, specifically Lactobacillus acidophilus. This is a beneficial bacteria which helps to kill the candida bacteria. It occurs naturally in our bodies but eating yogurt each day will raise the levels so your body can keep the candida bacteria in check. It is important to note that this is not a yeast infection cure, but strictly for prevention.

• Don’t Douche

Never use douches because these products don’t only wash away some of the candida bacteria which cause the problem but also the protective mucous and positive bacteria which are there to protect the vagina from infections and other problems. Some women make the mistake of thinking that douching will help in preventing yeast infections but the opposite is actually true.

Following these simple tips can help in preventing yeast infections in most women. These are not cures for women who are already experiencing the symptoms but strictly preventative in nature. For ladies who suffer from chronic yeast infections it would be smart to start following as many of these great tips as possible to lower the chances of getting any more infections.