Ways to Help Control Vaginal Infections

Vaginal irritations and infections sexually transmitted are common complaints in women of all ages. Tight clothing, moisture, and concentrated heat are perfect growing conditions for certain types of bacteria that cause these infections.  Many soaps, detergents, and feminine hygiene products can cause allergic reactions to sensitive skin. 

The following suggestions may help to keep these infections under control:

• Use white mild soaps without perfume and chemicals.
• Use unscented detergent when washing your underwear and washcloths.
• Do not use dryer sheets for your underwear or washcloths.
• Use white, unscented toilet paper and wipe front to back.
• Do not use feminine hygiene sprays, wipes, powders, or douches.
• Tampons and pads
• Use non-deodorant tampons or sanitary pads. 
• Do not use tampons at night.
• Alternate tampons with pads
• Never leave a tampon in more than 3 hours.
• Try not to wear underwear to bed, allowing for better air circulation and avoiding concentrated heat and moisture in the vaginal area.
• Avoid tight clothes, blue jeans, and pantyhose.
• Change out of wet bathing suits and exercise clothes as soon as possible.
• Use a condom or abstain form intercourse if you think you may have an infection.
• Do not douche or use vaginal medication for 48 hours before a pelvic exam or Pap smear.  This can make it more difficult to correctly diagnose an infection.

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