While vaginal infections aren’t a certainty, about 75% of American women will have at least one at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, if you’re prone to these, the hot summer months only add to your aggravation. Your vagina needs some special care to help stay healthy and ward off the effects of summer heat.
Dr. Carrie L. Morris and the team at Radiance Wellness MediSpa urge you to review your personal care routine, especially where your genitals are concerned. Some otherwise ordinary hygiene steps may be putting your vagina at risk. Here, we offer some helpful tips.
There’s no direct threat to your vagina from the summer temperatures. Your entire body stays well-regulated except in extreme cases, so thermometer-popping days aren’t an issue.
However, plenty of the things you love to do during the warm months may add to vaginal health challenges, and when things get hot and sweaty you may alter your hygiene routine in ways that leave your body vulnerable.
Swimming is the fundamental stay-cool staple of summer, and when you hit the pool, you may be reassured by the presence of chlorine. After all, it keeps bacteria levels down so the water stays clean.
However, your vagina depends on the presence of good bacteria to keep the infectious kinds under control, and chlorinated pool water doesn’t distinguish between good and bad. Taking a probiotic supplement helps maintain the balance in your favor.
Once you’re out of the pool, your challenges aren’t over. Your risk of yeast infection could rise if you leave that damp suit on too long. Warm, moist environments are ideal for yeast growth, so be conscious of lingering in bikini bottoms.
If you groom to keep yourself ready for swimsuit season, be sure to give yourself 24 to 48 hours before hitting the water, no matter whether you wax or shave. Hair removal irritates your skin, and adding exposure to chlorine or seawater could be too much before your body recovers from hair removal.
Swimsuits are often made from synthetic fabrics, and while they’re ideal when you’re in the water, the fabric itself could leave you prone to irritation, itchiness, and rashes.
The same holds true with your underwear drawer. Cotton should be your everyday choice, whether you’re changing out of your suit or dressing for the day. Save the lace and nylon for special occasions.
When you’re active, the heat in July and August can make a refreshing shower a much-needed part of your daily hygiene. Keeping clean is good, but remember that your vagina is self-cleaning, and it only needs a gentle water wash. Choose a soap with neutral pH, and use it externally only. Avoid scented products of any sort, even laundry detergent.
It doesn’t take much to ensure your body has the best chance to maintain itself. When you need a boost, we offer a wide range of services to help you look and feel your best this summer. Contact Radiance Wellness MediSpa at any of our locations, by phone or online, to arrange a virtual or in-person consultation.
