7 Strategies If Your Tights Cause Yeast Infections

Combatting Yeast Infections From Leggings and Tights

When it comes to women’s health, one topic that often gets overlooked is vaginal health, especially when your tights and leggings are wardrobe staples. If you’ve ever experienced itching or discomfort "down there" and wondered if your beloved leggings could be the culprit, you're not alone. Yeast infections, a common issue for many women, can be triggered by something as simple as your workout attire. Let's explore why that happens and how to combat it effectively.

Can Wearing Tights Cause a Yeast Infection?

The short answer is: yes, tights and leggings can contribute to yeast infections. Most yeast infections are caused by a type of fungus called Candida Albicans. According to health experts, athletic women may be more prone to yeast infections due to the hours spent in workout clothes that retain moisture and restrict airflow. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and spandex can trap moisture, creating a perfect breeding ground for yeast. As Everyday Health explains, these fabrics "hold moisture close to the skin and encourage the growth of yeast."

But does this mean you need to throw away your favorite opaque tights as soon you need to work out? Absolutely not! Below are some practical tips to help keep those annoying yeast infections under control when wearing tights and leggings. However, if you're dealing with frequent infections, it’s important to consult your doctor.

1. Choose Breathable, Moisture-Wicking Fabrics

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of yeast infections is to choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. Consider swapping your usual leggings for products that prioritize breathability, such as Oya’s patented leggings and underwear designs. Unlike other brands, Oya's leggings feature three discreet mesh panels that make them twice as breathable as competitors. The fabric also wicks moisture away and dries quickly, ensuring your intimate areas aren’t left in damp conditions where harmful bacteria can thrive.

For those who prefer to go commando, consider wearing breathable, wicking underwear under your tights to provide an extra layer of protection. Learn more about the science behind Oya's leggings here.

2. Avoid Toxic Fabrics

Many popular brands today cut corners by using fabrics that contain harmful toxins like BPAs, PFAs, and PFOAs. These substances are known endocrine disruptors and can cause irritation by leaching into your skin. Wearing non-toxic fabrics, like those offered by Oya, can help protect your body from unwanted chemical exposure. Learn more about Oya's commitment to non-toxic fabrics here.

3. Incorporate Probiotics into Your Routine

Taking probiotic supplements daily can promote healthy bacteria that help combat yeast infections, as Prevention advises. If you're prone to forgetting daily supplements, make sure to take probiotics during and after any antibiotic treatments to maintain the balance of good bacteria that helps prevent yeast overgrowth.

4. Limit Alcohol, Bread, Sugar, and Caffeine

You don’t need to cut out these pleasures forever, but being mindful of your intake can make a difference. According to Livestrong, foods like sugar, bread, and alcohol can lead to an overly acidic vaginal pH, where yeast thrives. Limiting these items in your diet can help maintain a balanced pH and reduce your risk of yeast infections.

5. Consider Progestin-Only Birth Control

Hormones play a significant role in yeast infections. Estrogen-based birth control pills can contribute to the development of yeast infections, as they can alter your vaginal pH. Switching to a progestin-only birth control pill or an IUD could help you avoid these issues, as noted by Prevention.

6. Use Water-Based Lubes

Did you know that glycerin-based lubes can worsen yeast infections? Glycerin is essentially sugar, which feeds yeast. To avoid this problem, opt for a water-based lubricant, as recommended by health experts. Sugar-free lubrication helps to reduce the risk of yeast growth and keeps things balanced during intimacy.

7. Try Boric Acid When Other Options Fail

If you've tried over-the-counter treatments and prescription antifungals without success, consider asking your doctor about boric acid suppositories. WebMD explains that boric acid is a widely recognized treatment for recurrent yeast infections, especially those that don't respond to traditional methods. However, it's always best to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

Final Thoughts on Preventing Yeast Infections

It can be frustrating when it feels like a yeast infection won't go away, or when you're constantly asking yourself, "Why does my yeast infection keep coming back?" If you’re dealing with persistent issues, be sure to consult your doctor for a personalized treatment plan.

In the meantime, make simple swaps like choosing breathable fabrics and incorporating probiotics into your routine to support your vaginal health. You’re not alone in this fight, and with the right strategies, you can keep your intimate health in check all season long. Hang in there—there’s light at the end of the tunnel!