WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for October, 1999: Re: Yeast Infections Questions

Re: Yeast Infections Questions

From: Patti Tessler, FNP (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Sun, 31 Oct 1999 12:13:14 -0600 (CST)

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In reply to: SONNENSTUHL: "Re: Yeast Infections Questions"

At Sun, 31 Oct 1999, SONNENSTUHL PAT wrote lots of suggestions about yeast infections: >Anything else, anyone?
>Pat Sonnenstuhl, ARNP, CNM

Some women do have very frequent recurrent yeast infections, but I urge you to see your health care provider for a definite diagnosis. If you have a recurrence within two months of your last treatment, it's important to be examined, rather than simply using an over-the-counter treatment. It's possible that the medication you used did not fully eradicate the infection (some women with frequent infections have types of yeast that are more resistant to some treatments), or it's possible that you have some other infection or process causing your symptoms.

Yeast are a normal part of the vagina's environment in a certain number of women. Why don't they feel the symptoms of a yeast infection, then? Apparently, their bodies keep the yeast under control. While I've treated men for symptoms of yeast (e.g. very red rash on the penis, especially in diabetic men), I don't advise women to have their male partners take treatment, because I don't believe sexual spread is a factor. Instead, I advise women to try to put their bodies in the best possible state to keep the yeast under control.

Regarding acidophilus: some folks say that it's similar enough to your vagina's normal bacteria to help restore the balance, and others say there's no way that yogurt bateria is going to take hold in the human vagina. In addition, there seems to be dispute about the most helpful form of acidophilus. Some say only the must-refrigerate capsules will work. I usually tell women to eat yogurt with live active cultures daily if they like yogurt, but to concentrate on other approaches if they do not. Yogurt provides calcium and other nutrients, and is a better value than acidophilus capsules.

Regarding panty hose: why not switch to thigh-highs or old-fashioned stockings with garter belt for a while, if you can get the right size? Also, avoid douching and other vaginal products, including sanitary products with deodorants. I also advise women to use a gentle, non-fragranced, NON-antibacterial soap in the genital area; also, you might try using a blow dryer on the coolest setting to dry the genital area after your shower/bath.

But the first step is a repeat visit to your health care provider for a definite diagnosis. Hope you get some relief.

--
Patti Tessler, BSN, MSN, RN, CS
Family Nurse Practitioner

Next message: Robin: "Re: Ultrasound Tuesday, what should I expect?"
Previous message: Patti Tessler, FNP: "Re: vaginal dryness"
In reply to: SONNENSTUHL: "Re: Yeast Infections Questions"

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