Prevention

• The best ways to prevent bacterial vaginosis are not known. However, enough is known to show that bacterial vaginosis is associated with having a new sex partner or having multiple sex partners. It is seldom found in women who have never had intercourse. Basic prevention would include using condoms, limiting the number of sex partners, abstaining from douching, and using all the medicine prescribed for treatment of bacterial vaginosis, even if the symptoms go away.
  
  
• Vaginal yeast infections can be easily prevented in most cases.
  
  
  • Keep your vaginal area dry, especially after a shower.
    
    
  • Wipe from front to rear after using the toilet.
    
    
  • Switch to looser-fitting cotton underwear.
    
    
  • Change wet bathing suits after a swim.
    
    
  • Avoid tight-fitting jeans or pantyhose.
    
    
  • Pregnant women should see their doctor immediately if they are experiencing symptoms.
    
    
  • Avoid chemical irritants in deodorized tampons. Do not use douches or feminine hygiene products. Regular bathing is usually adequate to cleanse the vagina.
    
     
• Trichomoniasis can be prevented. If you are diagnosed with a trichomonal infection, your sexual partner should also be checked. He or she may have other sexually transmitted diseases and also may re-infect you if not treated. Safe sex with condoms and counseling about sexually transmitted diseases may help decrease the rates of infection and reinfection.