Madrid (EFE).- Keeping the genital area dry and clean after bathing or avoiding excessive intimate hygiene, as well as avoiding self-medication and going to a specialist at certain signs, are the advice given by gynecologists to avoid infections that come with summer dips and increased sweating.
The most common symptoms are redness, itching, discomfort with urination, irritation of the area and change in vaginal discharge, whiter and lumpier in the case of candidiasis or yellowish and frothy or smelly with other infections, recalls the Spanish Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (SEGO), which recommends going to a consultation so that the expert can assess it.
The heat and humidity typical of summer help create the perfect environment for fungi and other pathogens to proliferate in the genital area, which is why SEGO advises keeping the vulvovaginal area dry as much as possible after bathing.
Chlorine and dirt from some waters
Also, chlorine or dirt from some water can affect the genital area, so you should also take a shower after bathing.
Washing the vulvar area is also important, but it should always be in the external area, only with water or neutral soap without perfume, and only on the occasions that are necessary; Thus, they advise against douching or douching and warn that excessive washing can be counterproductive because it can reduce natural defenses and alter the vaginal pH.
Thus, it is not recommended to wash frequently (3-4 times a day), unless necessary, or to use intimate hygiene products.
Cotton underwear and not very tight
On the other hand, underwear must be made of cotton and not too tight to achieve proper perspiration and dryness of the female genital area, lycra or nylon fabrics that do not perspire and will favor greater humidity in the vulvar area are not recommended.
The continued use of sanitary protectors (salvaslip) is also not recommended because they do not allow the heat and humidity of the area to be released correctly; Being synthetic, they can cause dermatitis and skin allergies in the area, giving symptoms as if there were an infection.
In addition, it is important to regularly change the compress, tampon or vaginal cup to prevent infections and depending on the vaginal discharge you have.
Another issue to take into account at this time of year is waxing the genital area, which removes hair that precisely fulfills a protective function against infections.
In the case of shaving, there is a risk of localized skin infections in the area, so it is advisable to use very clean material and not shave the entire vulvar area, leaving at least 1 cm. of hair on each side to act as protection.