Yeast infections are a common problem for many women, and they can be frustrating and embarrassing. If you're wondering why you keep getting yeast infections every month, there are a few possible explanations. This article will discuss some of the most common causes of recurrent yeast infections and provide tips for preventing them.
Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans, which is normally present in the vagina in small amounts. However, certain factors can upset the natural balance of the vagina and allow Candida to grow out of control. These factors include:
Now that we've discussed some of the most common causes of recurrent yeast infections, let's talk about what you can do to prevent them.
Why Do I Keep Getting Yeast Infections Every Month?
Yeast infections are a common problem for many women, and they can be frustrating and embarrassing. If you're wondering why you keep getting yeast infections every month, here are 8 important points to consider:
- Antibiotic use
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Weak immune system
- Hormonal changes
- Tight clothing
- Poor hygiene
- Diet high in sugar
- Pregnancy
If you're experiencing recurrent yeast infections, it's important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and get the appropriate treatment.
Antibiotic Use
Antibiotics are medications that are used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Unfortunately, antibiotics can also kill the good bacteria that live in the vagina, which can lead to an overgrowth of Candida and a yeast infection.
This is because antibiotics work by killing bacteria, and they don't distinguish between good and bad bacteria. When you take antibiotics, they kill both the good and bad bacteria in your body. This can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina and allow Candida to grow out of control.
The risk of developing a yeast infection after taking antibiotics is highest if you take them for a long period of time or if you take them frequently. Women who take antibiotics for more than 10 days are at an increased risk of developing a yeast infection.
If you are taking antibiotics and you experience symptoms of a yeast infection, such as itching, burning, or discharge, talk to your doctor. They may recommend taking an antifungal medication to treat the infection.
Here are some tips to help prevent yeast infections after taking antibiotics:
- Take a probiotic supplement. Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to your health. They can help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina and prevent yeast infections.
- Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to boost your immune system and make you less susceptible to yeast infections.
- Avoid tight clothing. Tight clothing can trap moisture and create a warm, moist environment that is ideal for yeast growth.
- Practice good hygiene. Keep your genital area clean and dry. Avoid using harsh soaps or douches, as these can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina.
Uncontrolled Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body's ability to produce or use insulin, a hormone that helps glucose (sugar) get from the blood into cells. When blood sugar levels are high, it can create a warm, moist environment that is ideal for yeast growth.
People with uncontrolled diabetes are at an increased risk of developing yeast infections for a number of reasons:
- High blood sugar levels: Yeast feeds on sugar, so high blood sugar levels provide an ideal environment for yeast to grow.
- Weakened immune system: Diabetes can weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections, including yeast infections.
- Increased urination: People with diabetes often urinate more frequently, which can wash away the good bacteria that help to keep yeast in check.
- Nerve damage: Diabetes can damage the nerves, including the nerves that control the vagina. This can lead to decreased sensation in the vagina, which can make it more difficult to detect a yeast infection.
If you have diabetes, it is important to keep your blood sugar levels under control to reduce your risk of developing yeast infections. You can do this by taking medication as prescribed by your doctor, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise.
If you have diabetes and you experience symptoms of a yeast infection, such as itching, burning, or discharge, talk to your doctor right away. They may recommend taking an antifungal medication to treat the infection.
Weak Immune System
A weak immune system can make you more susceptible to all kinds of infections, including yeast infections. This is because a weak immune system is less able to fight off the Candida fungus that causes yeast infections.
- HIV/AIDS: HIV/AIDS is a virus that attacks the immune system. People with HIV/AIDS are at an increased risk of developing yeast infections.
- Cancer: Cancer and cancer treatments can weaken the immune system. This can increase the risk of developing yeast infections.
- Organ transplant: People who have received an organ transplant take medications to suppress their immune system to prevent their body from rejecting the new organ. This can increase the risk of developing yeast infections.
- Chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, and lupus are at an increased risk of developing yeast infections.
If you have a weak immune system, there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing a yeast infection:
- Wash your hands frequently: This will help to prevent the spread of germs.
- Keep your genital area clean and dry: Avoid tight clothing and pantyhose, and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to boost your immune system.
- Get regular exercise: Exercise can also help to boost your immune system.
- Talk to your doctor about taking a probiotic supplement: Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to your health. They can help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina and prevent yeast infections.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes can also trigger yeast infections. This is because hormones can affect the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the levels of the hormone estrogen increase. This can lead to an overgrowth of Candida and a yeast infection.
- Menstruation: The hormonal changes that occur during menstruation can also trigger yeast infections.
- Menopause: After menopause, the levels of estrogen decrease. This can also lead to an overgrowth of Candida and a yeast infection.
- Birth control pills: Some birth control pills can increase the risk of developing yeast infections.
If you are experiencing hormonal changes and you have symptoms of a yeast infection, talk to your doctor. They may recommend taking an antifungal medication to treat the infection.
Tight Clothing
Tight clothing can also contribute to yeast infections. This is because tight clothing can trap moisture and create a warm, moist environment that is ideal for yeast growth.
- Nylon underwear: Nylon underwear is not breathable, which can trap moisture and lead to a yeast infection.
- Tight pants: Tight pants can also trap moisture and create a warm, moist environment that is ideal for yeast growth.
- Leggings: Leggings are another type of clothing that can trap moisture and lead to a yeast infection.
- Shapewear: Shapewear can also be tight and uncomfortable, which can increase the risk of developing a yeast infection.
If you are prone to yeast infections, it is best to avoid wearing tight clothing. Instead, opt for loose, breathable clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton.