VAGINOSIS PREVENTION

Because the "good" lactobacilli bacteria help control the growth of harmful bacteria and infection, get the nutrients you need to keep them happy. Eating yoghurt that contains active acidophilus (you'll find it at health food stores) helps maintain the health of your vagina. Here are some other tips:

•  Wear underpants with a cotton crotch that doesn't trap moisture, and avoid tight-fitting jeans.

•  If you swim, be sure to change out of your wet suit when you leave the water. Lots of moisture in your vaginal area can lead to an upsurge in bad bacteria.

•  Change out of your work-out clothing immediately after exercising. Wearing damp gym clothes long after your work-out is over is tempting fate.

•  Avoid vaginal douching, since it decreases the number of good lactobacilli in the vagina.

•  Before you get dressed in the morning, wash and dry your vulva (the outer portion of your genitals).

•  Since an IUD increases your chances of getting BV, consider another form of birth control if you have recurring infections.