Yeast Infections and Your Sex Life

Yeast infections can get in the way of your sex life. But, engaging in sex itself does not directly lead to a yeast infection; sex can elevate the risk by introducing new bacteria to the vaginal area. Yeast infections are easy to treat and prevent; continue reading to learn how to minimize the likelihood of developing a yeast infection after sexual activity using preventive measures.

Yeast Infection Quick Facts

• Caused by candida overgrowth
• CDC estimates: Females have a  75% chance of experiencing at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime.
• Related to sex, but not caused by sex
• Affects different body parts

Signs of Vaginal Yeast Infections

• Vaginal and vulvar irritation
• Intense vaginal itching
• Redness
• Thick, white cottage-cheese-like discharge
• Burning sensation during sex or while urinating
• Vaginal soreness
• Watery vaginal discharge
• Painful urination
• Vaginal rash

Yeast Infections and Sex

While yeast infections are not sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual partners can pass them through penetrative and oral sex. To minimize the risk of vaginal yeast infections during penetrative sex, use condoms or other barrier methods to prevent passing on the infection. Additionally, some hygiene practices can prevent yeast infections, such as peeing and washing the vaginal area after sex.

When To See A Provider

If you experience yeast infections after sexual activity, most cases are easily treatable and generally pose no significant health issues; nevertheless, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider if:

• You are unsure about having a yeast infection
• You have three or more yeast infections occurring within a year
• It is the first time you have a yeast infection
• You have underlying health conditions or a weakened immune system
• You have persistent or worsening symptoms despite over-the-counter treatments

Want to take charge of your vaginal health? Build a personalized, OB/GYN-formulated vaginal health routine today.

How long to wait for sex after a yeast infection treatment

You should wait to have sex until your yeast infection goes away. Individuals with a yeast infection should refrain from engaging in all sexual activity. This precaution is essential to prevent the potential spread of the infection between partners, creating a cycle of transmission.

If abstaining from sex is not possible until all symptoms are gone, using barrier methods (dental dams and condoms) may offer some protection against spreading the infection between partners. However, this solution is not consistently effective in preventing this particular type of infection.

How to prevent yeast infections after sex

• Maintain a good personal hygiene
• Wear breathable cotton underwear 
• Do not douche (douching can worsen vaginal infections)
• Change out of damp clothing, including swimsuits and sweaty attire as soon as possible
• ​​frequently change tampons, pads, liners, and other menstrual products
• Use natural and unscented products to clean and keep down there fresh
• Avoid scented feminine products around genitals
• Do not stay in hot tubs or baths for too long
• Use our Kushae boric acid suppositories + probiotics for better gut health

How to treat vaginal yeast infection

Yeast infection can go away on its own, but lack of treatment can also worsen the infection. Here are two ways to treat yeast infections:

• Antifungal medications: The most effective treatment for vaginal yeast infection is antifungal medications. There are different options doctors may prescribe, such as topical creams, ointments, and suppositories. Yeast infection treatment can consist of a dose of medication or doses spread out for one week. For those who have frequent, complicated, or recurrent yeast infections, doctors may prescribe stronger topical and oral treatment lasting two weeks or months. There are also over-the-counter medications to treat yeast infections. Only take over-the-counter medications, if you are sure that you have yeast infections. 

• Probiotics: Vaginal yeast infections are very common. In fact, studies report that 138 million suffer from recurrent yeast infections. As an OB/GYN, Kushae’s co-founder Dr. Barb knew how vital it was to come up with an effective solution to such a common vaginal problem. Kushae's proven proprietary blend — medical-grade Boric acid, aloe, apple cider vinegar, and probiotics — quickly and gently restores your natural pH balance, and eliminates the need for antibiotics for good. Say hello to freedom from BV and yeast infections with our gentle and natural vaginal probiotics and products.