itchy down there

[sookiesue]

This probably wouldn't help once the itchiness develops, but taking a strong daily dose of probiotics during and after taking a round of antibiotics (for a couple weeks after) can help prevent the destruction of the good bacteria that we all need. Yogurt is a good source if it has live cultures, but there are many good probiotic capsules out there that make it easy to get a good dose multiple times a day.

[marni]

I relie on a daily AZO tablet (homeopathic anti yeast infection prophilactic available at drug stores) to keep up the good bacteria. Sine I am way menopausal, I also have a all natural lubricating slave to counter dryness and sporadic itching. It contains tea tree oil, eucaliptus, rosemary, jojoba, bees wax, lanolin and I can't remember what else which I apply before riding because it contains ingredients which don't melt away or absorb in as fast as other lubricants and with the tea tree oil, it provides a barrier to germs. It is call Everything balm and is made by a company called "Goodies Unlimited"on the web.

If I start feeling itchy I slather it in good and it seems to stop things in their track. This is ofcourse in addition to stripping out of my shorts and showering as soon as I walk in the door, and rinsing out really well with the warm water. I also learned years ago, the benefit of wiping front to back (and following through with an aloe baby wipe whenever it seems appropriate,)

If all else fails I keep and emergency Monistat in the medicine cabinet.

I do however second everybopdy's comment about seeking another doctor, but you might also try talking to your current physician and see if she really understands what it is you are trying to do.

My own doctor is an wee Scottish lady of about my own age whose opi nion is " bless me, I'd never be seen dead in such outfits but if it makes you happy and keeps you healthy who am I to object. Just try to stay upright please."

[malkin]

My gyn is a cyclist; I'm pretty sure there'd have be a damb good reason if he were to tell me to stop riding.