Steps
What Causes Yeast or BV?
Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) occur when there's an imbalance in the bacteria and fungi that naturally occur in your vagina.
They are not sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Dos
To help prevent yeast and BV:
- Wash your vulva (the outside of your vagina) with mild, unscented soap or plain water.
- Wear cotton or cotton-crotch underwear.
- Eat less sugar and sweets, and drink fewer sweet drinks and sodas.
- Change your tampon or pad every 4 to 8 hours.
- Wash menstrual cups and sex toys carefully (follow product instructions).
- Try a different brand of lubricant or spermicide if you are getting frequent yeast infections or BV.
Don'ts
You should not:
- Sit in a wet bathing suit or wear overly tight clothing.
- Use scented tampons, pads, vaginal deodorants or other “feminine hygiene” products.
- Use perfumed bath products (soap, laundry detergents, toilet paper, etc.).
- Douche.
- Let germs from your anus get to your vagina when wiping after using the bathroom (instead, wipe from front to back) or during sexual activity.
- Take antibiotics unless they are medically necessary.
Follow these dos and don'ts to prevent yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV).
