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Reply to "Yeast /fungal infections"

I don't think we necessarily have more yeast, but I do think we get infections more often because we unfortunately (though unintentionally) tend to create situations where yeast thrive. Antibiotics are the main culprit, and I've had a couple of lovely vaginal infections when taking cipro. But outside of antibiotics, moisture is also a huge factor. Since we typically go to the washroom more often as well as have more liquid bms, it's kind of a double edged sword. The increased moisture, wiping and irritation does create an environment for yeast to grow. Using barrier creams can also create a moist environment for yeast to thrive. Other factors, which some of us have, include anemia and/or prednisone use, both of can lead to the development of thrush. Of course, all these things coupled with taking antibiotics obviously increases the problem exponentially. That's why it's so important to dry the area completely after showering and after bms. A layer of baby powder with the barrier cream can help things stay a little drier.

I know first hand how bad moisture can be. I had a pretty nasty yeast infection in my belly button early on with the ostomy. Depending on how I positioned the wafer or what system I was using, the barrier would partially cover my belly button at times. It would get wet when I showered and if I didn't dry it off very well, the moisture could become trapped under the barrier. I'm sure sweat was also a factor. I had my ostomy for 2.5 years so I learned to adapt. I would dry inside my belly button with a q-tip. Later on, when I got to be more "expert" with my ostomy, I learned to position it around the belly buttom (diamond trumps square! *LOL*) and I started actually cutting a little divot in my barrier when necessary so that the belly button was left completely uncovered. Didn't have any further problems with yeast with those little adaptations.
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