To Douche, Or Not To Douche, That Is The Question!
So what is the answer? Is it better just to keep it really clean down there? Is it even possible to keep your vagina clean without douching?
Case #:1883
Concern：
I have never used a douche before, but I'm starting to think it's my only hope to be rid of my yeast infections for good. I'm worried about using vinegar, I feel like that might burn or something. Please help!
Discussion：
I've only had a yeast infection once in my life, and that was definitely enough for me. At the time, I didn't even know that such a horrible thing existed. I was still in the early stages of trying to figure my period out. Luckily, I have a very open mother, whom I can come to with any crisis no matter how disgusting.
Yeast Is For Baking
I think the worst part of a yeast infection has to be the itching. It's so unsightly, scratching down there like you're some kind of cave woman who's caught fleas. At one point, it felt as if I had scratched myself raw down there, so the last thing I wanted to do was add vinegar. I was positive that douching at the peak of discomfort would only add salt to my wounds. Unfortunately, my mom is old school, she made me do it. Needless to say, it was probably one of the most horrific experiences of my life.
It is very fortunate for the new wave of the yeast infected, that we have developed new mixes for douching that are extremely less painful or harmful to a woman's pH balance.
How Do You Know
When I was so ungraciously tapped by the yeast fairy, I was actually still a virgin. So, there really wasn't a question of whether it could be something else. However, women who are already sexually active might have a little trouble figuring out whether they truly have a yeast infection, or if they've contracted a sexually transmitted disease.
Though you are able to transfer a yeast infection to a man, and he is then able to transfer it back to you, a yeast infection does not fully qualify as a true STD. This is because, most women do not get these types of infections from other people. You are the creator of yeast, therefore you create the actual root of the infection without having to transfer or contract it first.
Some signs of a yeast infection include; Intense vaginal itching, a foul odor emanating from the vaginal opening, and a cottage cheese-like discharge. If you are experiencing all three of these symptoms, you most likely have a yeast infection, not a sexually transmitted disease.
If your discharge seems to be off color in any way, you should see your OBGYN immediately. Discharge that takes on a slight green or yellowish hue, is a red flag for STD's.
How To Prevent It
Once you've organically douched, and the infection has left your system, you'll want to be sure to stay extra clean down there to prevent the infection from returning. (TRY: Vaginal Douching for Infection Fighting) There are some simple ways to yeast proof your vagina. For instance, during the night, when you are sleeping, go commando. Yeast thrives on warm, dark, and moist places. Don't give that yeast a home to harbor in while you sleep the night away. Also, when you're awake, stick to only cotton underwear. And of course, practice good hygiene. Don't go days on end without taking a shower or bath. These basic tips should keep you itch, and yeast free.
What to do
Vaginal Douching: Easy & Safe Solution for Yeast Infections
Belonging to the kingdom of Fungi, yeast contains over 1,500 species found in everything from bread to alcohol to even a woman’s vagina. While the yeast in bread and alcohol might not cause any harm, the yeast found in a woman’s vagina can