Yeast infections cannot always be prevented. However, adhering to the following guidelines may reduce a woman’s risk of developing a yeast infection:

• Wear loose-fitting undergarments and avoid garments that trap heat and moisture.
  
  
• Wear only undergarments made of cotton or natural fiber or those that have a cotton panel.
  
  
• Do not wear panty liners every day and avoid scented tampons.
  
  
• Avoid the use of vaginal sprays, deodorants or douches.
  
  
• Avoid hot tubs, whirlpool spas and bubble baths.
  
  
• Immediately change out of wet clothes (e.g., bathing suit, exercise apparel).
  
  
• Exercise proper toilet habits (e.g., wipe from front to back).
  
  
• If menopausal, discuss hormone pills or creams to keep the vagina lubricated and healthy.
  
  
• Monitor and regulate blood sugar (if patient has diabetes).

Women who experience three or more yeast infections per year may want to speak with their gynecologist about taking boric acid capsules or eating yogurt with lactobacillus acidophilus cultures. Studies indicate that using these capsules in the vagina and consuming yogurt with live acidophilus cultures daily can help “good” bacteria grow and balance the growth of Candida.