Genital fungal infections are a common condition among both men and women. This type of infection is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the genital area, which can cause itching, pain, and discomfort.

While there are various ways to treat genital fungal infections, there are also certain behaviors that can worsen the condition. In this article, we’ll review five common behaviors that can worsen genital fungal infections.

1. Wearing Tight Clothing

Tight clothing, such as skinny jeans or tight underwear, can trap moisture and heat in the genital area. This can create the ideal environment for yeast to grow and thrive.

When you wear tight clothing, you’re creating a warm, damp environment that is perfect for fungal growth. To prevent fungal infections, you should wear loose clothing that allows your skin to breathe.

2. Using Antibiotics

Antibiotics are medications that are commonly used to treat bacterial infections. However, antibiotics can also kill off the good bacteria in your body that help keep yeast in check.

When the good bacteria are eradicated, yeast has a better chance of growing and causing an infection. If you’re prone to fungal infections, you should try to avoid using antibiotics unnecessarily.

3. Having Unprotected Sex

Having unprotected sex can introduce new bacteria and yeast into the genital area. This can disrupt the delicate balance of microorganisms in the area and lead to a fungal infection.

To prevent fungal infections, you should always use protection during sex.

4. Eating a Poor Diet

What you eat can have a significant impact on your overall health, including your risk of fungal infections. If you’re eating a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, you’re feeding the yeast in your body and helping it grow.

To prevent fungal infections, you should limit your intake of sugar and refined carbs and focus on eating a diet rich in whole foods.

5. Using Harsh Personal Care Products

The products you use to care for your skin can also have an impact on whether or not you develop a fungal infection. Harsh soaps and body washes can strip your skin of its natural oils and disrupt the delicate pH balance of the area.

This can make it easier for yeast to grow and cause an infection. To prevent fungal infections, you should use gentle, pH-balanced personal care products.

Conclusion

If you’re prone to genital fungal infections, there are certain behaviors you should avoid to reduce your risk of infection.

Wearing loose clothing, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, using protection during sex, eating a healthy diet, and using gentle personal care products can all help prevent fungal infections and keep you feeling comfortable and healthy.