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Our vagina can do the most unimaginable things. But here’s a caveat — it is highly susceptible to vaginal yeast infections. This fungal infection causes irritation, discharge, and itchiness in the vagina, vulva, and sometimes even the urinary system. It is also known as vaginal candidasis, and as per research, it affects up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their life.
Don’t be scared because this isn’t a sexually transmitted infection, although you are at an increased risk of infection when you become sexually active. While medications can help to treat this condition, but can an increase in fluid intake really flush out the bacteria? Well, as always, we have an expert to answer this question.
We got in touch with Dr Suman Lal, Associate Director – Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Gurugram. Here’s what she shared with HealthShots, “If a yeast infection is in the urinary system, drinking water will flush them out. That’s because lukewarm water increases metabolic activity and helps to reduce weight; therefore, local infection will be reduced. Drinking water helps to increase immunity and flushes out toxic radicals from the body.”
The fungus candida albicans is the culprit for most vaginal yeast infections. There are certain bacteria that also help to prevent yeast infections, and when the balance is disrupted in the vagina, it becomes a breeding ground for such infections.
* Prolonged use of certain antibiotics
* Pregnancy
* Uncontrolled diabetes
* A compromised immune system
* Dampness in the vagina
* Using public toilets
* Sexual contact with a partner who has a yeast infection
There could be several risk factors. For one, those women who consume broad-spectrum antibiotics suffer most commonly from this condition, because the medication kills the healthy bacteria in the vagina. Sometimes, an increase in estrogen levels can also lead to vaginal infections.
Dr Lal believes that there is nothing more helpful than drinking lots of water. We already know how water can really solve all kinds of health issues, and this case is no different. When you drink more water, you urinate much more and eliminate the sugars that feed the yeast.
“You MUST also wear cotton clothes, and avoid tight clothing. Maintain personal hygiene, because that is of utmost importance. Toilet training is essential to avoid catching infection. Also, when engaging in sexual activity with your partner, a condom must also be used, especially if yeast infection is present,” he adds.
All in all, if you have a yeast infection, follow these tips but do not delay a visit to the doctor, to get fully treated. An appropriate treatment is required
for eradication of fungus from your body!