Yeast Infection, Vaginal

Try the following self-help methods to reduce the frequency and intensity of vaginal yeast infections:

• Cut down on refined sugar in your diet.
• Eat yogurt that contains live
Lactobacillus acidophilus cultures or take oral acidophilus tablets or powder.
• Shower off the discharge -- a handheld showerhead is useful. (Because of the danger of introducing air into your circulatory system, or damage from high water pressure, douching is not advised during pregnancy.)
• Use a pad or panty shield.
• Avoid feminine hygiene sprays, which can irritate vaginal tissues.
• Wear loose cotton panties until your symptoms are gone.
• Avoid tight jeans, exercise pants, leotards, and swimsuits.
• Wear a nightgown and no underwear to bed instead of pajamas.
• Wear skirts rather than slacks, and skip the pantyhose whenever possible.
• Relieve intense itching by applying cold water compresses and sitting in a warm bath to which a cup of cornstarch and a half-cup of baking soda are added.
• Try the over-the-counter Aveeno in your bath, but avoid soaking in substances that may irritate the vagina, such as bubble bath and perfumed soaps.