Why do I get yeast infections before my period?

75% of women will experience at least one episode of vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime (Sobel JD, 2010). In our opinion, yeast infections before menstruation are often related to hormones, an imbalanced vaginal flora, and Candida taking advantage of the situation.

The good news? Preventing and treating it naturally is possible — and we'll show you how.

Why do yeast infections often appear before menstruation?

Before your period, your vaginal environment changes: estrogen levels drop, lactobacilli fall, and the Candida fungus increases. The result? A hormonal imbalance that often causes a vaginal infection .

Premenstrual syndrome isn't just about mood swings. Just before their period, many women experience signs of vaginal infection : itching , thick white discharge , or a burning sensation . This is often a vaginal yeast infection caused by Candida albicans .

This phenomenon is explained by a disruption of the vaginal flora linked to the menstrual cycle . When estrogen levels drop during the luteal phase, the vaginal microbiota becomes depleted, particularly in lactobacilli . These protective bacteria normally control the proliferation of Candida .

The vaginal environment then becomes less acidic, which promotes fungal growth . In short, the conditions become favorable for vaginal candidiasis , especially if other aggravating factors are present.

Key takeaways: common triggering factors

• Hormonal fluctuations before menstruation

• Prolonged wear of synthetic clothing

• Sugary or unbalanced diet

• Recent antibiotic treatment

• Inappropriate or overly aggressive intimate hygiene products

If the infection occurs frequently (monthly or almost monthly), it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional . Appropriate treatment may include an antifungal suppository , a probiotic regimen , or lifestyle modifications.

Finally, keep in mind that the vaginal environment varies throughout the cycle. Understanding these changes helps to anticipate periods of risk and naturally prevent vaginal infection .

Why are some women more prone to premenstrual yeast infections?

Your vagina doesn't have the same defenses as your neighbor's. Some women have multiple risk factors that promote the development of yeast infections before their period: taking antibiotics , overly aggressive hygiene , poorly tolerated sexual intercourse , etc.

Certain medications can trigger imbalances. Antibiotics , for example, destroy both bad and good bacteria, disrupting the vaginal microbiota . As a result, yeasts like Candida proliferate more easily.

Inadequate intimate hygiene is another factor. Too much washing, unsuitable gels, or the use of harsh soaps dry out the vaginal lining . The vaginal environment then becomes more welcoming to yeast .

Factors that increase the risk of premenstrual yeast infection:

• Wearing synthetic or overly tight underwear daily

• Continuous use of panty liners promotes moisture

• Regular practice of vaginal douching

• High frequency of unprotected sex

• Reactions to scented sanitary products

A recent study from the University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines shows that women with a vaginal flora depleted of lactobacilli are more susceptible to recurrent candidiasis. This imbalance can also be linked to an unbalanced diet , chronic stress , or even pronounced premenstrual syndrome .

If symptoms persist (irritation, thick discharge, burning sensation ), it is best to consult a doctor . A clinical examination will help rule out other conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection .

Finally, certain medical conditions , such as diabetes or vaginal dryness , can weaken the vaginal lining . This increases the risk of irritation and the development of Candida albicans , especially during hormonal fluctuations.

How to recognize a premenstrual yeast infection?

Before menstruation, an increase in thick vaginal discharge , intense itching , or a burning sensation may indicate a vaginal yeast infection . However, be aware that other conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or irritation can cause similar symptoms.

An increase in vaginal discharge is a common sign. If it becomes white, thick, odorless (like cottage cheese), and is accompanied by itching or burning , vaginal candidiasis may be a possibility. This fungus— Candida albicans —proliferates when the vaginal flora is disrupted.

Redness of the vulva , sometimes associated with irritation during intercourse , is another indicator. These symptoms can appear cyclically, particularly before menstruation, when the vaginal environment is more vulnerable.

To help you see things more clearly, here is a comparison table:

Symptom / Type of infection	Vaginal yeast infection	Bacterial vaginosis	Vulvar irritation
Vaginal discharge	White, thick, like "curdled milk"	Grey, liquid, fishy smell	Clear or absent
Smell	None	Strong and unpleasant odor	None or related to a product
Itching / Burning	Intense, especially around the vulva	Infrequent	Localized, linked to contact
Sex	Possible pain, discomfort	Sometimes awkward	Irritants depending on the cause
Period of appearance	Especially before menstruation	Random, outside of a specific period	Immediate after using a product
Treatment	Antifungal suppository + cream	Vaginal antibiotics	Avoid using the product, soothing cream

If these symptoms recur at the same time in your menstrual cycle , it's best to consult a general practitioner or other healthcare professional. A vaginal swab can identify the causative organism and avoid common confusion with other intimate infections .

Some women are unaware that an unsuitable hygiene product or synthetic underwear can cause irritations similar to the symptoms of a yeast infection. This is where analyzing the context (onset of symptoms, days of the cycle, hygiene used…) really helps to make a difference.

Preventing yeast infections before your period: the right steps to take

Proper intimate hygiene , a suitable diet , and well-chosen probiotics can limit recurrences. Prevention also involves simple and natural measures, such as using coconut oil or a vaginal suppository before menstruation.

Gentle intimate hygiene is essential. Avoid perfumed gels, vaginal douches, and irritating products. Cleansing with lukewarm water or a pH-balanced product is sufficient to maintain the vaginal flora .

If you are prone to vaginal yeast infections before your period , taking probiotics can really make a difference. Certain strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, help restore the balance of the vaginal flora .

Coconut oil , a natural antifungal, can be applied topically (in small quantities) to the vulva to soothe mild irritation during the premenstrual period. It forms a protective barrier without disrupting the microbiota.

A gynecological consultation is sometimes helpful if the symptoms are recurring. A doctor may prescribe an antifungal vaginal suppository , to be used a few days before your period to prevent outbreaks.

In terms of diet, a diet low in sugars and ultra-processed foods limits the proliferation of the candida fungus . Fiber, garlic, and fermented foods also support the vaginal microbiota .

You can also:

• Choose cotton underwear

• Limit the prolonged use of tampons

• Drink enough to support your vaginal lining.

• Use unscented and gynecologically certified intimate care products.

What should I do if the fungal infection recurs every month?

A recurring vaginal yeast infection every cycle is a sign: the cause needs to be investigated. Hormonal imbalances, an imbalanced flora, diet, hygiene, or an unsuitable treatment… We'll guide you to take the right action , with both medical and natural approaches.

A recurring vaginal yeast infection before menstruation is not a simple inconvenience. It is often a sign of a deeper problem , linked to an imbalance of the vaginal flora or a particular hormonal sensitivity .

In these cases, it's best to take a step back and examine your intimate hygiene , diet , and protection habits . Excessive washing, harsh products, or prolonged wear of synthetic clothing can contribute to the problem.

Medical follow-up is essential as soon as symptoms recur. Your general practitioner or gynecologist may request a vaginal swab to identify the abnormal presence of the Candida albicans fungus .

Conventional antifungal treatments ( vaginal suppositories , antifungal creams ) can provide temporary relief, but if they are poorly targeted or too frequent, they further disrupt the vaginal environment .

This is where the natural approach comes in. Reviewing your diet , limiting fast sugars and strengthening the flora with a suitable probiotic , such as our Intimate Flora Probiotics , helps to stabilize the vaginal balance in the long term .

At this stage, here's what you can consider:

• Perform a clinical examination during the symptomatic period

• Adjust your diet throughout the cycle

• Check the tolerance of your intimate products

• Anticipate the sensitive period with a preventative protocol

• Working on the vaginal and intestinal microbiota

If infections are accompanied by pain during intercourse , vaginal dryness or other unusual signs, do not wait: a medical consultation is necessary to rule out other pathologies (such as chronic candidal vaginitis or a sexually transmitted infection ).

FAQ – Answers to your questions about yeast infections before your period

Why do we say "no probiotics during menstruation"?

Contrary to some misconceptions, there is no general contraindication to taking probiotics during menstruation. On the contrary, it is sometimes beneficial to take probiotics during menstruation, especially for the gut microbiota.

Can a yeast infection before menstruation delay periods?

No, a vaginal yeast infection does not cause a delayed period . If your period is late, it could be due to a hormonal imbalance , intense stress , or pregnancy . A medical consultation can help determine the cause.

Can I use a vaginal suppository as a preventative measure every month?

Yes, but not just any kind. Some antifungal or probiotic vaginal suppositories can be used before menstruation , as a short-term treatment. Ask your doctor or midwife for advice on choosing the right product and frequency.

Can sanitary products promote yeast infections?

Yes. Panty liners worn continuously , overly absorbent or perfumed tampons , and some menstrual cups that are not cleaned properly can irritate the vaginal lining . It's best to choose breathable products that are changed regularly.

What is the difference between vaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis?

Candidiasis is caused by a fungus (Candida albicans) , with symptoms including white discharge , itching , and a burning sensation . Bacterial vaginosis , on the other hand, is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria , with grayish discharge and a strong odor . The treatment is different.

When is it really necessary to consult a healthcare professional?

As soon as the yeast infection recurs monthly , or if you experience unusual pain , persistent discomfort , or if treatments are no longer effective, a gynecological examination with a swab will allow for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Source: Sobel JD, 2010, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20375352/