Daily cleansing with mild soap, adequate rinsing, and thorough drying of the genital area can be helpful.
Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays, fragrances, or powders in the genital area.
Avoid wearing extremely tight-fitting pants or shorts, which may cause irritation by constantly rubbing against the skin and reducing air flow.
Wear cotton underwear or cotton-crotch pantyhose. Avoid underwear made of silk or nylon, because these materials are not very absorbant and restrict air flow. This can increase sweating in the genital area, which can cause irritation and may provide a more welcoming environment for infectious organisms.
Do not wear sweaty exercise clothing for prolonged periods.
Infections that may spread by intimate or sexual contact may be prevented or reduced by avoiding sexual activities or using
References
Katz VL. Benign gynecologic lesions: vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, oviduct, ovary. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 18.
Eckert LO, Lentz GM. Infections of the lower genital tract: vulva, vagina, cervix, toxic shock syndrome, HIV infections. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 22.
Previous Section
Review Date: 10/28/2008
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer,
Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant
Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Susan
Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond,
Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also
reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
