Drexel University College of Medicine

LAUNDRY
• Use a mild enzyme-free soap (Woolite, All Free and Clear), especially on clothes that come in contact with the vulva.  Use 1/3 to 1/2 the suggested amount.
• Do not use fabric softener or dryer sheets

CLOTHING
• Look for underwear or exercise clothes with a breathable or wick-away  fabric
• Wear cotton panties, avoid any underclothes that cause increased friction like thongs
• Try thigh-high panty hose
• Avoid tight clothing, synthetic fabrics. Remove wet bathing suits as soon as possible.

BATHING AND HYGIENE
• Avoid all body products (soaps, lotions, washes, gels) that contain a fragrance. Consider avoiding the use of soap in the vaginal area completely.
• Recommended mild soaps include Cetaphil, Basis, Aveeno, Neutrogena. And do not scrub vulvar skin with a wash cloth - wash with the hand or with running water and pat dry. 
• Avoid bubble baths, bathe salts, and hot water (hot tubs can sometimes worsen symptoms).
• Never Douche
• Avoid over the counter treatments for yeast without asking your provider first as anything in the vaginal area can cause burning or irritation.  Do not use Vagisil.  It is an irritant.
• Stay away from deodorized pads or tampons.  Avoid Always brand pads and pantyliners. Tampons are fine as long as they are comfortable and are replaced often.
• We discourage shaving or waxing as it may cause irritation or localized infections.  Consider laser hair removal as a more permanent solution.
• Avoid scented toilet paper.  If wiping is uncomfortable or causes burning, pour lukewarm water over the vulva after urinating and pat dry.

COMFORT MEASURES
• To decrease irritation, small amounts of Vaseline or Crisco shortening may be applied to the vulva as often as needed to provide a barrier, and protect and moisturize the skin.  This may help to decrease irritation during your period and after urination.
• Cool compresses are often helpful, as well as splashing down with cool water.
• Soaks in lukewarm bath water with 4-5 tablespoons of baking soda will soothe vulvar itching and burning.  Soak 2-3 times a day for 10-15 minutes.
• Use a lubricant during intercourse.  A small amount of Astroglide, Slippery Stuff (available by internet), or almond oil (found at health food stores) can make intercourse more comfortable.  Oils should not be used with condoms.
• For RECTAL ITCHING, it is important to clean thoroughly after each bowel movement, but NO RUBBING OR SCRUBBING.  Try using cetaphil body wash or mineral oil after a bowel movement to help remove feces.   ALBOLENE  moisturizing cleanser is a makeup remover that can be helpful with cleaning after a bowel movement. It is available at CVS and Walgreens. Avoid baby wipes or personal wipes as these products may cause more irritation. Please be sure that the toilet paper you are using is unscented.  Vaseline applied to the anal area can be helpful and provides a good barrier.

CONTRACEPTIVE OPTIONS
• Oral contraceptives and other hormonal contraceptives do not seem to increase the chances of getting a yeast infection.
• Contraceptive jellies, creams or sponges should not be used as they may cause itching and irritation.
• If you use condoms, try a non latex condom, such as Avanti or Trojan (certain ones).  Be sure the condoms you are using are not coated with a spermicide as this can cause irritation and burning.