How to Prevent Yeast Infections While Taking Antibiotics

Antibiotics are prescribed for a number of illness and can be used with good results. Unfortunately for females patients, the use of these drugs can cause another uncomfortable issue all together--yeast infections. A yeast infection is a condition of the vaginal area causing the area to become itchy, sore, red and is often found with a thick cottage cheese like discharge. It occurs with there is an over abundance of yeast in the genital area. When taking antibiotics, the medication also kills the good bacteria in the vagina. This allows the yeast to take over and cause the infection. Although there is no way to completely guarantee you will get an infection, there are steps you can take to minimize the chances and the severity.

Things You'll Need

• Yogurt
• Cotton underwear
• Breathable clothing
• Gentle cleanser

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Instructions

• 1

  When you first start taking the antibiotics, make sure to wear 100 percent cotton underwear for the duration of the treatment and for about a one to two weeks afterward. Synthetic fabrics keep the area warmer while increasing the moisture. Yeast thrive in that environment.

• 2

  Wear comfortable fitting pants during and after the treatment for a couple weeks. If your pants are tight fitting, there's going to be more heat and moisture for the yeast to survive.

• 3

  Eat about onecup of yogurt a day during the treatment. Continue eating the yogurt for a week or two after the treatment is over as well. The active cultures in yogurt help kill the extra yeast.

• 4

  Use extra gentle cleansers around your vaginal area. This will help maintain the correct balance of the area.