Written by: Klára Jakubová
Summer, sun and endless water fun - all this is the best time of the year for many of us. However, even this time of year can have its dark side for some women, in the form of problems with various types of infections. How to properly take care of your intimate parts in the summer, how to maintain a healthy vaginal environment and what to do if you encounter health complications?
Watch out for wet swimwear
The first and basic rule for maintaining a healthy vaginal environment is maintaining proper hygiene. Of course, this is true all year round, but it's even more important in the summer when we spend a lot of time in the water and in wet swimsuits. Wet swimwear is an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply, so it is important to always change into dry clothes after swimming.
Balanced pH
Another important aspect is the correct pH. Vaginal pH should be slightly acidicto prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. You can maintain a balanced vaginal pH, for example, by using special intimate soaps with low pH and dietary modification.
One way to maintain a healthy pH is to eat a diet rich in probiotics. Yogurts, kefir, fermented vegetables and other probiotic foods can help support healthy vaginal flora.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
In the summer, irritation and drying of the vaginal mucosa also occurs more often, especially as a result of frequent bathing in chlorinated water in swimming pools. Therefore, it is important to take care of sufficient hydration and use moisturizing gels intended for intimate parts or our natural lubricants
Everything in moderation
During the summer, when our bodies sweat more and we are exposed to humid environments, it is necessary to pay extra attention to our vaginal health. Many women tend to think that the more often they wash "down", the healthier they will be. However, the opposite is true. The vaginal area should be cleaned no more than once a day, using only water or mild, unscented soaps.
Excessive washing can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and pH, which can lead to vaginal health and various problems.
Treat your skin to natural fabrics
Next it is necessary to pay attention to what clothes we spend most of the day in. Synthetic materials such as nylon can cause irritation and increase the risk of infection. Therefore, try to wear cotton underwear that allows your skin to breathe.
When to seek help?
If you still experience any problems, such as itching, burning, irritation or unusual discharge, it is important to consult a professional as soon as possible. These symptoms may indicate an infection or other health problem that requires treatment. A regular check-up with a gynaecologist, ideally twice a year, is the basis. If you have any problems, do not hesitate to see your doctor as soon as possible.
A healthy vaginal environment is the key to a woman's overall health and well-being. Therefore, you should pay proper attention and care to it, not only in the summer, but throughout the year.
Remember that vaginal health is an important part of the overall health of every woman. Although it is not talked about much, it is important to give it regular care and attention. Summer is the time when we women should be even more vigilant in this regard. Enjoy the sun, water and swimming, but don't forget prevention and proper care. Your body will thank you for it.