The arrival of warm weather poses a risk to female genital health. According to the Spanish Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (SEGO), vaginal infections increase by 50% during the summer. In total, they account for up to a third of gynecologists’ consultations.
The habits brought on by the heat are not neutral for the intimate area. A typical summer day at the beach often involves not changing swimsuits frequently and not drinking enough water.
These simple actions increase the risk of vulvovaginitis. Therefore, to better understand how to enjoy the season without risking your health, we spoke with Dr. Ignacio Lobo, a gynecologist and obstetrician, pioneer and specialist in v-notes vaginal surgery (scarless).
Tips for caring for vulvovaginal health at the beach and pool
The first suggestion the expert gives us is to choose the right clothing for a summer day. “Cotton underwear and swimsuits are recommended because they allow the area to breathe,” he says. This way, moisture buildup in the genital region is limited.
Second options would be linen and silk. Both fabrics have the ability to keep the skin dry.
But that’s not all. No matter how appropriate the clothing choice is, if left in contact with the skin for too long, it will inevitably accumulate moisture.
The bikini should be changed after swimming to avoid the growth of fungi and bacteria. Therefore, it would be advisable to bring several changes of clothes if you plan to be out all day.
Additionally, when changing swimsuits, Dr. Lobo suggests the following: “The genital area should be washed with fresh water after leaving the pool to remove chlorine, or after the sea to remove salt residues.” He adds that taking the time to dry the skin properly is essential if we want to prevent infections.
Regarding sunscreens, there are always doubts about their safety when applied to areas of the body with sensitive skin. The gynecologist is clear on this: “They should be avoided in the genital area, both directly and indirectly, as they can cause irritation.”
What role does diet play?
Although it may seem unrelated, what we eat is another factor that influences the maintenance of good genital health. This also includes hydration.
Therefore, the first ingredient that should be abundant in a summer diet is water. Adequate fluid intake helps prevent imbalances in the vaginal flora.
“We should also prioritize foods with natural probiotic properties, such as yogurt,” explains Dr. Lobo. Probiotics help maintain the balance of microorganisms that inhabit the vagina.
Another essential group for strengthening the immune system is “fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in vitamin C,” he adds. Examples include oranges, kiwis, strawberries, melons, red peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli.
At the same time, there are foods that are better to avoid as they are associated with an imbalance of bacteria throughout the body, including the vagina. Alcohol and caffeine fall into this category, as the specialist points out, because they can cause dehydration.
What to Avoid During Summer to Care for Vulvovaginal Health?
We asked the gynecologist which routines or practices are discouraged during the warmer months. The first thing he mentioned was the use of tight swimsuits, underwear, or pants. These garments increase friction and retain moisture.
Another habit to avoid is vaginal douching. It is well-known that douching can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora and promote infections.
In the same vein, Dr. Lobo suggests reducing, as much as possible, the use of perfumed intimate hygiene products, which are associated with vulvitis. This includes scented soaps, vaginal deodorants, scented sanitary pads, or tampons, as they can be a potential source of irritation.
Enjoy Summer Without Neglecting Your Body
According to the expert, there are three most common vaginal infections:
- Candidiasis: Caused by fungi, it usually develops in warm and humid environments. It is associated with women who keep their wet bikini on for too long. The most common symptoms are redness of the vulva, itching, or a burning sensation.
- Bacterial Vaginosis: Caused by a bacterial imbalance in the vagina. It is linked to the use of irritating products that destabilize the genital pH. Sometimes it presents no symptoms, or it manifests as abundant vaginal discharge with a strong odor, itching, and burning.
- Trichomoniasis: Caused by a parasite that spreads through sexual contact. The most common symptoms are foul-smelling vaginal discharge, itching, pain during urination, and pain during sexual intercourse.
To avoid vaginal infections, we must pay attention to the body’s signals. At the slightest unusual symptom that persists or causes discomfort, it is essential to consult a gynecologist, advises Dr. Ignacio Lobo.
In short, maintaining good vulvovaginal health during the summer is possible. We should enhance the habits that protect us and reduce those that harm us while enjoying the beach, pools, and warm weather.