Summer invites us to enjoy long sunny days, the refreshing coolness of the sea, and the relaxation of swimming pools. It’s a season of freedom and activity, but these changes in our routine and environment can also present unique challenges to our intimate health. High temperatures, increased humidity, and lifestyle shifts create the ideal conditions for the development of vaginal infections, which can disrupt the peace and enjoyment of our holidays.
At Gliozheni Clinic, we believe that empowerment comes from understanding your body. Information is the first and most critical step toward prevention. Therefore, we have prepared this comprehensive guide with practical, in-depth tips to help you navigate the summer months feeling healthy, confident, and worry-free.
6 Essential Pillars for Protecting Your Intimate Health
Following these simple yet crucial rules can significantly minimize your risk of infection and help maintain the delicate, natural balance of your vaginal flora.
1. Change Your Swimsuit Immediately After Swimming
It’s a common habit to lounge in a swimsuit after a dip, but this is one of the biggest contributors to summer-related infections. A wet swimsuit traps moisture against your skin, creating a warm, damp environment where bacteria and yeast, particularly Candida albicans (the cause of yeast infections), can thrive. Make it a non-negotiable habit to change into dry clothes or a dry swimsuit as soon as you are done swimming.
2. Prioritize Cotton and Breathable Fabrics
The type of fabric you wear matters immensely. Cotton is a natural, breathable fiber that allows for free air circulation, effectively wicking moisture away from the skin. Synthetic materials like nylon or polyester, on the other hand, trap heat and sweat. This creates a stagnant, humid microclimate that disrupts the natural balance and encourages the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, leading to conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV) or other irritations.
3. Practice Gentle, Not Aggressive, Hygiene
Your vagina maintains a delicate ecosystem with a specific acidic pH, which is crucial for keeping harmful bacteria in check. This balance is upheld by beneficial bacteria, primarily Lactobacilli. Regular hygiene is essential, but using harsh, perfumed soaps, aggressive cleansers, or scented wipes can strip away these protective bacteria and disrupt the natural pH. This leaves you vulnerable to infection. For daily washing, rinsing with plenty of warm water is sufficient. If you choose to use a cleanser, ensure it is a pH-balanced, gentle product specifically formulated for intimate use.
4. Be Cautious with Pools and Public Waters
While a refreshing swim is a summer highlight, it’s wise to be mindful of the water. A high level of chlorine in swimming pools can irritate the sensitive skin of the vulva and upset the vaginal flora. Conversely, poorly maintained pools, lakes, or oceans can harbor various bacteria. To minimize risk, limit prolonged exposure, avoid swallowing water, and always take a quick shower with clean water afterward to rinse away any residual chlorine or bacteria.
5. Say “NO” to Vaginal Douches Without a Doctor’s Recommendation
The vagina has a remarkable and efficient self-cleaning mechanism, managed by natural secretions that flush out dead cells and bacteria. Vaginal douching interferes with this process. It can eliminate the good bacteria needed for protection and alter the natural pH balance. Furthermore, douching can actually push existing infections further up into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, potentially leading to more serious conditions like Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
6. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet
Your overall health is directly reflected in your intimate health. Drinking adequate amounts of water throughout the day is crucial for flushing toxins from your body and can also help prevent vaginal dryness and irritation. Your diet plays a significant role as well. Incorporating foods rich in probiotics—such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and other fermented foods—helps to reinforce your body’s population of beneficial bacteria, strengthening your natural defense against infections.
Our Services at Gliozheni Clinic: Your Partners in Health
When prevention isn’t enough, or when you need specialized advice and a compassionate ear, our team is here to support you. We understand that intimate health concerns can be sensitive and that every woman’s body is unique. That is why we are committed to providing a personalized, patient-centered approach to healthcare in a comfortable and confidential environment.
Our services include:
- Specialized Gynecological Consultations: A safe and confidential space to discuss any symptoms or concerns with our experienced doctors.
- Accurate and Modern Diagnosis: Utilizing the latest diagnostic tools and tests to precisely identify the cause of your symptoms, ensuring you receive the right care from the start.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Designing an effective, evidence-based treatment plan that is tailored specifically to your individual needs and lifestyle, promoting not just recovery but long-term wellness.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
If you notice persistent symptoms such as itching, burning, unusual discharge (in color, consistency, or amount), or a strong odor, do not ignore them or attempt to self-diagnose. A professional gynecological check-up is the most reliable way to get an accurate diagnosis and the proper treatment.
Enjoy your summer to the fullest by making your health a priority.
For more information or to book an appointment, you can contact us at:
- Tel: +355 4 222 36 32
- Cel: +355 67 27 33 333
