5 reasons you’re having vaginal infections
We hear about yeast infections & BV, but do we know why we’re getting them??
Chances are you don’t because we’re not educated about this stuff 🥲
So here are 5 reasons you could be getting reoccurring yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis:
1. antibiotics - antibiotics wipe out your good gut and vaginal bacteria along with the bad. This leaves your microbiome susceptible to overgrowths of yeast and bad bacteria! This is what started my recurring yeast infections while trying to treat bv
2. Birth control - when you’re on birth control, you’re taking synthetic hormones which disrupts your natural hormones which can lead to pH imbalances and infections. In the case of yeast infections, Birth control can create a high estrogen environment and Candida attaches to estrogen causing estrogen to drop and progesterone to rise creating the perfect yeast environment because pH is thrown off and there’s a reduction of yeast-blocking bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus. Personally, I got off birth control & it was so worth it!
3. Stress - when we’re chronically stressed, stress hormones like cortisol can do a number on our gut lining and gut microbiome diversity. Which doesn’t exclude our vaginal microbiome! Plus when we’re chronically stressed our hormones can be affected which goes back to what we just talked about with birth control
4. Diet - what we eat and drink has a direct correlation to our vaginal health because our gut and vaginal microbiome are connected! So if we’re eating a lot of highly processed, greasy, fried, fast food, lots of candy, etc. food that causes us digestive destress or inflammation which leads to gut microbiome imbalances, our vaginal microbiome can become imbalanced as well which can lead to infection. Diets high in sugar are what yeast and bad bacteria thrive off of so not saying to never eat sugar, but if you are experiencing chronic infections, that’s something you could consider reducing if in access. Personally, changing what I ate is what lead me to heal after 3 years!
5. Feminine care - any feminine care like washes, wipes, sprays, douches can create pH imbalance or irritation to the skin which can lead to infection. You don’t need feminine care! Cleaning with warm water and if you want a soap, please use very gentle unscented soap!
Hope these brought some new things to your attention if you’re struggling with yeast or BV infections!🤍
#lemon8partner #hygieneroutine #femininehygiene #postsexroutine #selfcareroutine #tipsforwomen
Recurrent vaginal infections, including yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV), can significantly impact women's health and well-being. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for prevention and treatment. 1. **Antibiotics**: While antibiotics can be necessary for treating infections, they often eliminate beneficial bacteria in the gut and vagina, leading to an overgrowth of yeast and harmful bacteria. This disruption of the microbiome is a significant factor in recurrent infections. 2. **Hormonal Contraceptives**: Many women experience changes in their vaginal microbiome when using hormonal birth control. The synthetic hormones can alter hormone levels and pH, creating an environment conducive to yeast growth. If you're noticing frequent infections while on birth control, consider discussing alternative methods with your healthcare provider. 3. **Stress Management**: Chronic stress is not just a mental challenge; it affects your physical health, including your gut and vaginal microbiome. Elevated cortisol levels can lead to decreased microbiome diversity, making the body more susceptible to infections. Incorporating stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can help restore balance. 4. **Dietary Choices**: Your dietary habits are directly linked to your vaginal health. Diets high in sugar and processed foods can foster an environment for yeast overgrowth due to the impact on the gut microbiome. Opting for a well-balanced diet that includes probiotics, fruits, and vegetables can improve both gut and vaginal health. 5. **Feminine Care Products**: The use of douches, scented wipes, and other feminine hygiene products can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and pH in the vagina. Often, the best approach is to stick to mild soap and water for cleansing, allowing your body to maintain its natural defenses. By recognizing and addressing these five factors, women can take proactive steps toward better vaginal health. If recurrent infections persist, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
Ngl- I’m so used to feminine care products- I feel dirty if I skip that step. 😩😩😩