Summer is not only about being hot and sweaty, but also a constantly wet swimsuit. Then there are long treks and sleepovers under a tent or more or less romantic sex on the beach. Without a shower.... What effect does all this have on our private parts and how can you manage to take care of them to perfection, wherever you are spending the summer? We asked gynaecologist Dr. Kamila Žižková.
Women's intimate parts get a beating in the summer heat and humidity, it's a well-known fact. What kind of problems can you encounter? "Most often, these conditions are the reason for the development of vaginal mycosis. However, other inflammatory conditions can also occur. When the vaginal microflora is disturbed, bacterial vaginosis can also occur. And urinary tract infections are no exception," says Dr. Kamila Žižková aka on instagram @moje_gynpor!
There is a (smelly) discharge, itching and burning of the intimate areas. And sometimes it is accompanied by the above mentioned inflammation of the urinary tract. How do they both come about?
Intimate hygiene is one thing that one does not think much about when it comes to water or during sports. It is often the problem with urinary tract inflammation that one is not drinking adequately. And it doesn't help either to leave wet bathing suits on or stay in damp, sweaty clothes for long periods of time. Yeast and bacteria breed in the genital area because it dries the slowest and retains the most heat.
"It is also often forgotten to soak swimsuits in clean water and wash them in general. And the riskiest is bathing in stagnant waters that are not intended for bathing or are not maintained and monitored by public sanitation...," adds our gynaecologist.
Even if you swear that you will take care of your intimate hygiene, it pays to take a first aid kit from the pharmacy with you on holiday for gynaecological problems. When it comes to treating mycoses, you can usually find a combo of vaginal suppositories (which you use yourself) and cream (which you both use with your partner) in one box, and you have a good chance of getting treated without the need for a doctor.
"But the rule to follow here is: stick to the treatment period, because the inflammation can soon return. During the treatment period, also increase your personal hygiene and avoid excessive intake of sugars and alcohol, especially fermented ones," says Kamila Žižková, adding that if the problems return or last more than 5-7 days, it is time to see a doctor.
Be sure to take first aid with you if you suffer from urinary tract infections. At least urological teas, cranberries, lichen or products containing the D-mannose are ideal. Special gels for intimate hygiene should be a given (the travel size minis are sufficient ), as well as adding probiotics to strengthen the vaginal microflora.
Have you dreamed of summer sex on the beach, even if it's the by the sand quarry up behind the hill? "If I can make a suggestion, I would recommend a rocky beach! Sand gets everywhere, and if it gets into the vagina, both partners can irritate their genitals. The same goes for sex in the sea, even though sea water is beneficial, it can cause mischief in the vagina. Salt dries out not only the skin but also the mucous membranes. It doesn't just burn the eyes, but also the vagina," warns our gynaecologist about the ugly side of summer romance.
Your private parts can also suffer from interesting experiences on cycling trips. Special padded pants are a must. And if you're not used to long routes, get your body used to sitting on an uncomfortable saddle gradually, genital irritation from a bike saddle can really hurt.
"And because not only during cycling, but also during sports as such, the intimate parts are again an ideal place for the formation of moisture, it is advisable to use an intimate deodorant or baby or talcum powder," recommends Kamila Žižková.
And if you're going trekking, camping or sleeping outdoors, always take clean water with you. There are definitely places where you won't find a shower. "I recommend carrying at a minimum a bottle of clean water and washing your genital area at least once a day. Change underwear regularly. And use disposable wet wipes for intimate hygiene that are designed specifically for wiping these areas," adds our gynaecologist.
When it comes to intimate hygiene during summer, do you have a little more clarity? Hopefully we've answered all your questions, so enjoy your summer without any health complications.