A yeast infection is the worst. We have all been there. While not as bad as a urinary tract infection, it takes a very close second. But why are some women simply more prone to them?

Also called vaginal candidiasis, a yeast infection affects most of us at some point. About 75% of women will experience a vaginal yeast infection sometime in their life, and up to 45% of those women will have repeat yeast infections.  And in simplest terms, it is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness.

And there are habits that can increase your likelihood and frequency of getting them. So let's review them. 

Alcohol intake

You guessed it. Alcohol is at the top of the list. It weakens the immune system, which is crucial in keeping candida cells in check. Without a strong immune system, microorganisms can quickly get out of control. Studies show that 2 hours after drinking alcohol, white blood cell levels are significantly reduced, leaving the immune system vulnerable to candida.

Alcohol can all also throw off your natural pH balance, damage your liver and stress your adrenal glands. We know it's hard to hear this. But your alcohol and Candida create the perfect storm, according to several doctors. 

Antiobiotics

Do you take a lot of prescription pills or antiobiotics? People who are on chronic antibiotics or are frequently on them are at an increased risk. A week-long course of antiobiotics is enough to wipe out all of your healthy bacteria (along with all the bad stuff), allowing yeast to overgrow and an infection to develop. 

Sugar intake

High amounts of sugar in your body can feed yeast in your vagina. People with diabetes are often prone to them. You already know this, but yeast feeds off of sugar.  Your body may develop a yeast infection in response.

Waiting too long to change post workout

If you wait too long to change out of sweaty or wet clothes, you're surrounding your vagina with moist, damp, humid conditions that are perfect for yeast to grow. I would suggest wearing moisture-wicking fabrics that pull water and sweat away from your skin.

Unbalanced vaginal flora

Women are susceptible to microorganism overgrowth due to the imbalances that happen with women's flora and pH levels. Our 'happy flora' formula solves this with its special blend of effective ingredients by regulating those imbalances and providing a natural defense system against stubborn intimate feminine issues. Happy Flora contains Oregano Extract, Caprylic Acid, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Protease, Cellulase, Aloe Vera Leaf Gel, Arabinogalactan, Anise Seed Extract, Black Walnut Hulls Powder, Wormwood Leaf Powder, and Reishi Mushroom Extract.

The antiifungal oregano attacks yeast in your body, and the unique probiotic blend will deprive the yeast of the food it relies on in your body to survive. It's a win-win.