Why Yeast Infections Keep Coming Back — and How to Stop Them

If you keep getting yeast infections again and again, you’re not alone — recurrent thrush (also called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis) affects many women and can be incredibly frustrating.
A recurrent yeast infection generally means having four or more infections in a single year.

This guide explains the most common reasons yeast infections return, how to stop the cycle, which treatments doctors recommend long-term, and what lifestyle habits can help prevent future flare-ups.

Important: This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice.
If symptoms are severe, frequent, or unclear, always speak to a doctor, GP, nurse, or sexual health clinic.

Quick Comparison: Main Causes of Recurrent Yeast Infections

1. pH Imbalance: A Common Trigger for Recurrence

A healthy vaginal environment is slightly acidic, which keeps yeast under control.
When the pH rises — from antibiotics, soaps, sexual activity, tight clothing, or hormonal changes — yeast may grow more easily.

How to restore balance:

• Avoid scented soaps, sprays, or douches
• Use a pH-balanced external wash
• Wear breathable cotton underwear
• Follow your full antifungal treatment course

2. Antibiotics: A Major Reason Infections Keep Returning

Antibiotics kill harmful bacteria — but they also reduce the good bacteria that help keep vaginal yeast under control.
This is why many women experience yeast infections during or after an antibiotic course.

Supportive steps:

• Use antifungal treatment as recommended by your pharmacist or doctor
• Discuss probiotic support with a healthcare professional
• Use gentle hygiene products to avoid additional irritation

3. Blood Sugar Imbalance (Including Diabetes)

Yeast thrive in environments with higher levels of sugar.
If your blood sugar fluctuates or remains high — due to diet or diabetes — yeast infections may become more frequent.

Helpful strategies:

• Follow your diabetes or blood sugar plan
• Limit high-sugar snacks and drinks
• Balance meals with protein, fibre, and healthy fats
• Stay hydrated throughout the day

If you regularly get infections and also experience symptoms like thirst, fatigue, or frequent urination, speak to a doctor about blood sugar testing.

4. Hormonal Fluctuations: Pregnancy, Contraception, Menopause

Changes in oestrogen levels can change the vaginal environment, making yeast overgrowth more likely.

Common hormonal triggers:

• Pregnancy
• New hormonal contraceptives
• Perimenopause or menopause

If you notice infections increase after starting a new contraceptive or during certain cycle phases, speak to your doctor about alternative options.

For pregnancy-specific guidance:
Safe Yeast Infection Treatments During Pregnancy.

5. Partner Reinfection: Passing It Back and Forth

Yeast infections are not considered classic STIs — but partners can still pass yeast to one another if both are affected.

Signs your partner may need treatment:

• Itching or redness on the penis
• Soreness or irritation after sex
• Recurrent infections for both partners

If both you and your partner have symptoms, avoid sex until treatment is underway and symptoms improve.

6. Resistant or Less Common Candida Species

While most yeast infections are caused by Candida albicans, recurrent cases can sometimes involve other species, including Candida glabrata, which may be harder to treat.

Your doctor may recommend:

• A vaginal culture test to identify the exact yeast species
• A different antifungal medicine
• A longer treatment course
• Specialist referral if needed

7. Long-Term Medical Treatment Plans for Recurrence

For frequent infections, doctors may prescribe a long-term antifungal plan, often involving:

• A longer initial course (e.g., 7–14 days)
• Followed by weekly or monthly maintenance therapy
• Close monitoring to prevent flare-ups

Never start long-term antifungals without medical supervision — dosage and safety vary by person.

8. Lifestyle Changes That Reduce Recurrence

Small everyday habits can dramatically reduce the conditions yeast thrive in.

Helpful changes include:

• Wearing breathable cotton underwear
• Changing out of wet gym or swimwear quickly
• Avoiding douching or internal washing
• Using pH-friendly external washes
• Keeping the area dry after showers

For full prevention strategies, see:
How to Prevent Yeast Infections Naturally.

When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical advice if:

• You have four or more infections per year
• You’ve had symptoms for more than a week with no improvement
• You’re unsure whether it’s yeast, BV, or something else
• You’re pregnant
• You have diabetes or other conditions affecting immunity
• Your partner also has symptoms

Your doctor can confirm the exact cause and design a personalised long-term plan.

FAQs About Recurrent Yeast Infections

Why do I keep getting yeast infections every month?

Monthly recurrences may be linked to hormonal changes, pH shifts, or underlying factors like blood sugar imbalance. A doctor can help identify patterns.

Can diet really affect yeast infections?

A high-sugar diet may contribute to yeast overgrowth in some people. Balanced eating can support long-term vaginal health.

Do probiotics prevent recurrent infections?

Probiotics may support gut and vaginal flora, especially after antibiotics, but they are not a stand-alone cure. They work best as part of a broader prevention plan.

Is it normal for yeast infections to come back after treatment?

Occasional recurrences are common. Frequent recurrences may need a longer treatment course or further investigation.

Can stress cause recurrent yeast infections?

Stress doesn’t cause yeast infections directly, but it may affect immunity and contribute to flare-ups.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice.
Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and proper treatment.