Alice,
My doctor prescribed antibiotics for me twice over the summer. Soon
after taking the antibiotics, I got a yeast infection and have been having
problems for several months. My gynecologist indicates that, even though
the yeast infection is gone, I have a problem with stabilizing my pH
balance. I have been taking acidophilus constantly in an attempt to put
the "good bacteria" back into my system. My gynecologist indicates that
the "good bacteria" has only recovered by approximately 15 percent. Since
I have been fighting this for several months, I just wanted to get a
second opinion. Can it possibly take six to eight months to recover from
the damaging effects of antibiotics???
Thanks!
-- Irritated
Dear Irritated,
Antibiotics, such as penicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline, and
amoxicillin, are used to treat and prevent infection by killing and
inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics can also increase your
susceptibility to yeast infections, as you well know, because they change
the vagina's natural pH, which is normally slightly acidic, and kill off
healthy bacteria. A change in acidity creates or allows for an overgrowth
of yeast.
Ways to Prevent Vaginal Infections
- Strengthen your immune system through exercise, a balanced diet, and
enough sleep to increase your body's defenses against infections.
- Wash your vulva and anus with mild soap and warm water every day.
- Avoid perfumed soaps, feminine deodorant sprays and cleansers, and
tampons and pads with deodorant.
- Do not douche. Douching can wash away the healthy bacteria lining the
vagina, as well as alter the vagina's natural pH level.
- Use only plain white unscented toilet paper.
- Keep your sugar and caffeine intake to a minimum (too much can upset
your natural pH balance).
- Wear underwear, tights, and pantyhose with cotton crotches. Tight
clothing creates warmth and moisture which are favorable for the growth of
yeast or bacteria.
- Wipe yourself after urinating from front to back so that
bacteria from your anus will not get into your vaginal area.
- Wash your sex toys with mild soap and warm water.
- Use a condom on your sex toy or boy toy during intercourse.
- Change the condom between anal and vaginal penetration, and when
sharing sex toys.
- Use a lube for sex.
- Get treated [your partner(s), too!] to prevent passing the
infection back and forth, even if you're only having oral sex.
- If you do take acidophilus supplements (especially when taking
antibiotics), make sure to check the expiration date on the bottle. Keep
the bottle or container refrigerated. Acidophilus comes in capsules,
liquid, or in yogurt with active cultures.
"Ways to Prevent Vaginal Infections" is adapted from THE
COLLEGE WOMAN'S HANDBOOK
Copyright 1995 by Rachel Dobkin and Shana Sippy
Workman Publishing Co., Inc., New York
Alice would suggest you go back to your doctor and discuss this
situation. Ask your provider why it seems to be taking so long for you to
return to your normal bacterial balance. And ask if s/he has other
suggestions for you to take care of yourself and regain your health. You
may also want to get a second opinion from another provider. At
Columbia, call x4-2284 to make an appointment in Primary Care.
- Alice
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