We can all conjure up a sun-drenched summertime wish list, from tropical beach vacations to lounging poolside to outdoor adventures. However, it’s safe to say experiencing a summertime yeast infection would never make the cut.
Although yeast infections remain possible throughout the year, the heat and humidity of the summer season can help roll out the welcome mat for this unwanted visitor.
In an effort to keep a yeast infection off of your summer itinerary, Rosa Gynecology offers an explanation of this uncomfortable disruption, summertime risk factors, prevention tips, and advice on when to reach for your gynecologist.
What is a Yeast Infection?
A fungal infection known as vaginal candidiasis, a yeast infection of the vagina and vulva, can cause a range of symptoms, including soreness, swelling, itching, irritation, discharge, and a burning sensation when urinating. Causes vary, such as sexual intercourse, the use of certain antibiotics, pregnancy, hormonal changes, poorly-managed diabetes, and more. According to the Office on Women’s Health, three out of four women will have at least one yeast infection in their lifetime.
What Causes Summer Yeast Infections?
Since warm and moist environments encourage this fungus to grow, certain situations common during the summer months can heighten the risk of a yeast infection. Wearing a wet swimsuit for a long period of time can trap moisture and potentially trigger fungal growth. The same goes for wearing sweaty clothes too long after exercise or outdoor activities. Non-breathable fabrics, think polyester and spandex, can be especially troublesome as they encase sweat against your skin. No matter what you’re doing, spiking summer temperatures raise your body heat. This can cause an uptick in pelvic region perspiration. High humidity keeps sweat from evaporating in that enclosed area, which can spur a yeast infection.
How Can I Prevent a Yeast Infection in the Summer?
Yeast infection prevention tips: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a few basics. As soon as you’re done swimming or exercising, swap damp clothing for dry, cotton options. 100% cotton underwear provides superior airflow and moisture absorption over synthetic counterparts. During the heat of summer, consider bypassing tight clothing such as skinny jeans and leggings in favor of choices like linen pants or loose-fitting shorts.
The Mayo Clinic suggests other year-round tips to lessen the risk of a yeast infection. Skip douching, as it gets rid of good germs that fight off infection. Avoid using scented products in the vaginal area. Scented body wash, bubble bath, menstrual pads, tampons, and other similar products also kill off good bacteria. Additionally, scented products can disrupt the natural pH balance found in the vaginal region, and can cause chemical irritation and micro tears in the tissue. Using hot tubs or taking hot baths can promote yeast infections, as does using antibiotics you don’t need.
When to See a Doctor for a Yeast Infection
The first time you have yeast infection symptoms, or if you’re not sure you’re experiencing a yeast infection, never self-treat. Instead, reach out to a healthcare provider. If you’ve had one before and the symptoms aren’t relieved after using over-the-counter treatments, seek professional assistance. Always consult a doctor if your symptoms are severe, it’s a repeat infection, you have an underlying health condition (diabetes, pregnancy, a compromised immune system), or you’re experiencing additional symptoms that could be signs of pelvic inflammatory disease or a urinary tract issue.
Rosa Gynecology: Your Yeast Infection Specialists
For any questions regarding yeast infections or expert treatment, call 770-487-9604 or schedule an appointment online.
