How to Prevent Yeast Infections While on Antibiotics: 14 Tips

Understanding Yeast Infections and Antibiotics

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida. This yeast naturally lives in small amounts in places like the mouth, skin, gut and vagina. However, certain factors can cause the yeast to multiply rapidly, leading to an infection. Vaginal yeast infections are very common, affecting 3 out of 4 women at some point. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and a thick, white cottage cheese-like discharge.

Antibiotics are one of the main risk factors for developing a yeast infection. Antibiotics work by killing off harmful bacteria, but they can also kill the good bacteria that keep Candida growth under control. This allows the yeast to proliferate freely. Nearly 30% of women who take antibiotics end up with a yeast infection. The risk increases with longer or multiple courses of antibiotics.

Tips to Prevent Yeast Infections when Taking Antibiotics

While yeast infections can't always be prevented, the following tips can help reduce your risk when taking antibiotics:

1. Take Antibiotics Only When Necessary

Since antibiotics are a primary culprit, its important to only take them when truly needed. Viral illnesses like colds, flus and most sore throats do not respond to antibiotics. Taking antibiotics when not necessary can leave you vulnerable to yeast overgrowth.

2. Avoid Prolonged Antibiotic Courses

Take antibiotics for the shortest duration possible to treat your infection. Prolonged or multiple rounds increase disruption of healthy bacteria and yeast overgrowth risk. Always finish the full course prescribed, even if you feel better, to prevent antibiotic resistance.

3. Stick to Low Sugar Diet

Yeast thrive on sugar. Eating a low sugar diet with minimal refined carbs, sweets and high sugar fruits can discourage yeast overgrowth while on antibiotics. Focus on high protein foods, non-starchy veggies, nuts, seeds and low glycemic fruits like berries.

4. Take Antibiotics with Probiotics

Take a high quality probiotic supplement while on antibiotics and continue for at least a week after. Probiotics contain friendly bacteria that can help replenish whats killed by antibiotics, keeping Candida in check. Look for probiotics with strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

5. Eat Fermented Foods

Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha contain probiotics that support vaginal health and discourage yeast overgrowth. Aim for at least one serving daily when taking antibiotics. Yogurt with live active cultures is especially effective.

Treating a Yeast Infection Caused by Antibiotics

If you develop a yeast infection while on antibiotics, there are several options for getting relief fast. Leaving a yeast infection untreated can allow the fungus to proliferate, leading to worse, more stubborn symptoms.

Over-the-Counter Antifungal Creams

Antifungal creams like miconazole (Monistat) or clotrimazole (Lotrimin) can be effective for mild to moderate infections. These are applied topically to the vulva and work by killing fungus on contact. Results are usually seen in 3-7 days. Make sure to continue using the cream for the full course as directed.

Oral Antifungals

For more severe infections, oral antifungals like fluconazole (Diflucan) may be prescribed. This is a single tablet medication that works throughout the body to stop fungal growth. Relief of symptoms is usually apparent within 24 hours and lasts for several weeks.

Boric Acid Suppositories

Boric acid suppositories can be used vaginally to quickly ease symptoms and rebalance vaginal pH levels inhospitable to yeast. Boric acid has antifungal and antiviral properties that curb Candida overgrowth. Relief is normally seen in a few days with continued use.

Probiotic Supplements

Oral probiotics or vaginal probiotics can help populate the vagina with beneficial bacteria to keep yeast in check during antibiotics. Look for vaginal probiotics containing Lactobacillus strains clinically shown to improve vaginal health and prevent yeast infections.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Recurrent Yeast Infections

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can help prevent repeat yeast infections after a course of antibiotics triggers an overgrowth. Yeast thrive under certain conditions, so tweaking daily habits can discourage fungal growth.

Wear Breathable Fabrics

Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight clothes made from synthetics. Yeast flourishes in the warm, moist environment created by non-breathable fabrics. Loose, cotton clothes can help keep the vaginal area cooler and drier.

Avoid Douching

Douching can disturb the natural bacteria balance in the vagina, leaving you prone to yeast overgrowth. Soaps and fragrances in douches can also irritate the sensitive vaginal lining. Let the vagina clean itself naturally.

Loosen Up Tight Clothes After Exercise

Change out sweaty gym clothes or bathing suits after working out or swimming. Tight athletic wear traps heat and moisture that fuels fungal growth. Yeast thrives in tight, nylon clothing.

Skip the Bar Soap

Use a mild, unfragranced cleanser on the vulva area and avoid bar soaps. The fragrances in soaps and other products can cause irritation and alter vaginal pH, making yeast infections more likely.

Eat More Yogurt and Fermented Foods

Eating yogurt with live active cultures, fermented foods like kimchi, and probiotic supplements support vaginal health and make yeast infections less likely. Their probiotics keep vaginal pH balanced and yeast growth in check.

When to See Your Doctor

Be sure to see your doctor if:

• Yeast infection symptoms don't improve after 3 days of over-the-counter antifungal treatment
• You've had 4 or more yeast infections in a year
• The infection happens right before your menstrual period
• You experience pain, sores or fissures during intercourse
• You have fever, chills, nausea or vomiting
• You have thick, white, curd-like vaginal discharge

Recurrent yeast infections, infections that happen near your period, or other abnormal symptoms may indicate an underlying health issue that requires further evaluation. Your doctor can check for other potential causes and make sure you get the right treatment.

Yeast infections are never fun, but being aware of prevention methods and treatment options can help you get relief quickly if antibiotics disrupt the natural balance. With some simple precautions, you can take antibiotics without ending up with an itchy yeast infection.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.