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What Causes Vaginal Infections? BV, Yeast Infections & Vaginal Imbalance Explained
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Most people with vulvas will experience at least one vaginal infection, like a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, at some point in their lifetime...however that doesn't make them any less irritating. But what if you could avoid these infections altogether? What if you could spot them before they even started so you could nip them in the bud before they got out of hand? That would be much better, wouldn’t it?
What Causes Vaginal Infections? The Most Common Triggers.
We’ve compiled a list of the most common causes of vaginal infections and what to avoid to keep your vagina healthy and balanced.
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Irritants That Can Disrupt Vaginal Balance
- Douching or internal cleansing products – can disrupt the natural vaginal microbiome and strip beneficial bacteria
- Scented soaps, washes, or vaginal deodorants – may irritate sensitive vulvar tissue and affect pH balance
- Bubble baths, bath bombs, and fragranced products – can introduce irritants that trigger imbalance or discomfort
- Spermicides or harsh personal care products – may alter the natural protective environment of the vagina
- Prolonged moisture or damp clothing (like workout wear or swimsuits) – can create an environment where imbalance is more likely
The vagina is self-cleaning (cool, right?) and contains a very delicate balance of bacteria. Douching can throw off this balance of bacteria and upset your vaginal pH, leading to vaginal infections, especially if they contain harsh chemicals and fragrances. So stop the vaginal infection cycle by avoiding douching!
Using Harsh Vaginal Health Products
Many people use vaginal “health” products with harsh ingredients and artificial fragrances to wash the vulva (remember: these products should never be used internally). However, certain cleansers, washes, and sprays can disrupt the natural vaginal microbiome and irritate sensitive vulvar tissue.
When this balance is disrupted, the vaginal environment may become less stable, which can increase the likelihood of irritation or infection over time. Supporting a healthy microbiome starts with being mindful of what you are applying both on and around the vulva.
Can Diet, Sugar, and Alcohol Contribute to Yeast Infections?
This one’s a bummer but… excess sugar, carbs, and alcohol can increase your risk for vaginal infections. When you eat sugar and carbs, your body breaks them down into sugar molecules which yeast and ‘bad’ bacteria in your vaginal microbiome feed off of, which can easily turn into a vaginal infection. So just remember: everything in moderation!
Read: The Bitter Combo Of Sugar and Stress
Why Pregnancy Can Increase the Risk of Vaginal Infections
It's not unusual for people with uteruses to experience vaginal infections during pregnancy, as hormonal changes can increase your likelihood of developing vaginal health issues. But the good news is that if you take preventative steps to maintain your vaginal health, you'll be able to minimize the risk of infection. We love Tonic for daily use for itch, irritation and long baths during pregnancy, and postpartum, once a doctor said you can return to bathing. :)
What To Expect During Pregnancy and Postpartum
How Hormonal Changes Affect Vaginal pH and Microbiome Balance
Shifts in your hormone levels can throw off your vaginal microbiome- especially during puberty or while on hormonal birth control- which will cause the pH level of your vagina to change. It's important to keep track of these changes in order to maintain your vaginal health.
Can Antibiotics Cause Yeast Infections or BV?
Many people use antibiotics to treat a myriad of health problems. While this is a common treatment, it also has the potential to cause a vaginal infection. Antibiotics wipe out all the bacteria in your vaginal microbiome including the 'good' bacteria, making it easy for ‘bad’ bacteria and yeast to take over. So take preventative measures (like using Salve) to reduce your risk of falling into the antibiotics-vaginal infection cycle!
Why Tight Clothing and Moisture Can Lead to Vaginal Imbalance
Bacteria thrives in warm, moist environments. So wearing tight clothes with non-breathable fabrics can allow bacteria and yeast to grow rapidly. It's important to be aware of this and take steps like: wearing cotton underwear, avoiding tight clothing and synthetic fabric, and changing out of post-workout clothing ASAP!
BUT if you do find yourself with a vaginal infection (because hey, it happens) you can use Momotaro Apotheca products to naturally address symptoms of common vaginal infections and general day-to-day irritation.
Supporting Vaginal Health After Imbalance
If you experience a vaginal infection or irritation, it is often a sign of temporary microbiome imbalance rather than something caused by “uncleanliness.” These shifts are common and can happen for a variety of reasons.
Supporting vaginal health during or after imbalance focuses on restoring the conditions the body naturally maintains when in balance. This includes gentle care, reducing exposure to known irritants, and supporting the vaginal microbiome over time.
Momotaro Apotheca products are formulated to support this process with microbiome-friendly, plant-based ingredients designed for sensitive tissue and daily vulvar care.
Find Natural support For Vaginal Infections
Further Reading:
All Natural Ingredients, All the Time
Understanding The Basics: Candidiasis
How to Prevent Infection — For Good by Tara Michaela
WTF Is Wrong With My Vagina? Comparing 3 Common Vaginal Issues
Let's Talk About Vaginas: Yeast Infections
Let's Talk About Vaginas: Bacterial Vaginosis
