How Practicing "Pelvic Rest" Can Help You Recover From A Yeast Infection Faster

It’s time to talk about yeast infections—because plenty of people get them, and they're no fun to go through alone.

The CDC reports that an estimated 1.4 million people 1visit the doctor yearly for yeast infections. Most of the time, they are treated with antifungal medication, but the recovery period can still be a few days. Turns out, your lifestyle choices can actually extend that healing time, hence why you should consider following a "pelvic rest" protocol following a yeast infection.

“Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, which can lead to itching, burning, and discomfort. Pelvic rest is necessary when you have a yeast infection because it helps prevent further irritation and infection in the genital area,” says Jill Krapf, M.D., a board-certified gynecologist who specializes in female sexual pain.

The protocol is fairly simple: Your lifestyle choices should give your pelvic area some time to recover from the infection without being bothered. 

You may not have thought your diet played a role in vaginal health, but it most certainly does—especially when you have an infection. Of course, you’ll want to consume a balanced diet in general, but sugar may be one element to monitor while healing your yeast infection. 

“Reducing sugar intake is advised because sugar can promote the growth of yeast,” Krapf says. By creating a less favorable environment for yeast to thrive, you’ll support your body’s natural healing process. 

Next, we have swimming—of all kinds. “Baths and hot tubs are not recommended when you have a yeast infection or other conditions requiring pelvic rest because they can introduce moisture and potentially irritate the vaginal area,” Krapf explains. 

The overarching goal is the same: Create an unfavorable environment for yeast to grow. “Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments, so soaking in water for extended periods could potentially worsen the infection,” Krapf says. 

It's worth noting that your vagina may meet hot and humid environments when tight clothing is worn during exercise, so be sure to change out of your gym clothes ASAP, especially when you have a yeast infection.

But still, it’s not just warm water you should avoid. “Additionally, the chemicals used in pools and hot tubs can irritate already sensitive skin, making it more symptomatic and susceptible to additional skin infections,” she adds. 

Lastly, we have the most obvious pelvic rest disruptor: Sex—and any kind of vaginal penetration, not just heterosexual penetrative sex. Think sex toys, fingers, oral sex, etc. 

“Activities like sex can introduce additional bacteria and irritants to the area, exacerbating the infection and prolonging the healing process,” Krapf says.