Summer, heat, perspiration and frequent swimming promote the development of infections and other irritations. Here are all those to which you can be exposed.
Vaginal mycosis (candidiasis)
“It is caused by the Candida Albicans mushroom, which proliferates in hot and humid conditions. Symptoms side, itching, thick white losses (curd milk) and burns are to be feared”, warns Dr Gérald Kierzek.
Bacterial vaginosis
“”It results from an imbalance in the vaginal flora, often linked to the proliferation of bacteria such as Gardnerella. We recognize this infection with greyish losses, smell of fish and irritations it generates “, alerts the medical director of True Medical.
Cystitis (urinary tract infection)
“Often due to bacteria like E. coli which go up the urethra, especially after swimming, cystitis causes burns by urinating, frequent desires to urinate, and troubled urine”, underlines the doctor.
Mechanical irritations
“”The prolonged wearing of a wet swimsuit, friction or the use of aggressive intimate products (such as scented gels) can irritate the intimate area“warns Dr Gérald Kierzek.
How to prevent these inconveniences?
To avoid any form of infection or irritation, “Many reflexes must be adopted on a daily basis“, confirms Dr. Gérald Kierzek. Thus:
- Dry well after swimming: “Quickly change a wet swimsuit“;
- Avoid synthetic tissues: “Prefer in particular cotton panties, more breathable“;
- Adopt a soft intimate toilet: “Wash in clear water with a treatment suitable for neutral or surgras pH“;
- Avoid scented wipes: “They can unbalance your intimate flora“;
- Hydrate enough (at least 2 liters of water per day): “This helps prevent cystitis“;
- Urine after each sexual intercourse: “This eliminates the introduced bacteria“;
- Moderate your consumption of alcohol and spices: “They can irritate your bladder“;
- Protect yourself in the pool: “Wear suitable protection to limit the aggression of chlorine on the mucosa“;
- Consider a probiotic cure (type Lactobacillus): “To strengthen your vaginal flora“;
- Prefer a soft shave: “to avoid microcoupures, which can facilitate infections. “
What to do in case of symptoms?
In the case of vaginal yeast infection
“Local treatment with antifungal ovum (such as Gyno-Pevaryl® or Monazol®) is generally recommended.
You can also apply an antifungal cream, such as Econazole, to relieve itching at the vulva. Finally, a probiotic cure can be useful to limit recurrences and strengthen your intimate flora “, underlines Dr Gérald Kierzek.
In the case of bacterial vaginosis
“The treatment is generally based on the local application of an antibiotic, in the form of a gel based on metronidazole or clindamycin. This treatment makes it possible to restore the balance of the vaginal flora by reducing the proliferation of responsible bacteria”, recognizes the emergency doctor.
In the case of a c ystite
“It is recommended to drink abundantly and consume cranberry (in juice or in food), because it helps prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder. If burns persist, do not hesitate to consult a doctor or a pharmacist. An antibiotic treatment may be prescribed”, recalls the expert.
To avoid: vaginal showers, which aggravate the imbalance of the flora.
When to consult a health professional?
Three situations must push you to consult:
- If the symptoms persist for more than 48 hours.
- In case of fever or lumbar pain (risk of kidney infection).
- In the event of frequent recurrences: an assessment may be necessary in order to search for underlying causes such as diabetes or immunosuppression.