It itches. It burns. It’s uncomfortable. It’s just no fun at all when you’re trying to enjoy your summer activities with your family but you have a yeast infection that’s driving you nuts.
Vaginal yeast infections occur when there is an overgrowth of the yeast candida, which naturally lives in the vagina. It’s one thing that can quickly ruin a vacation week.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to prevent yeast infections during these hot and humid summer months.
Avoid remaining in wet clothes for a long time. Summer is the perfect time for lake swims and long runs around town, but a moist, humid and wet environment is the perfect condition for yeast to grow. So by all means, work out in the toasty sun and splash around in the pool with the kids, but be sure to change out of your damp clothes as soon as possible.
Change sanitary products regularly. It’s easy to forget to change your tampon or pad several times a day during your period, especially during fun-filled days, but it’s a small thing that will help keep the yeast infections away.
Wear cotton. Many fabrics like polyester and spandex lock moisture in and don’t allow for air to pass through easily; however, cotton “breathes” and keeps moisture away from the body. It’s best to wear cotton underwear in the summer. The silky underwear may be prettier, but you’ll thank yourself later for wearing cotton.
Avoid strong chemicals. Summer heat can make you feel pretty gross and smelly, but many of the soaps and body washes contain harsh chemicals infused with strong perfumes that offset the natural balance of healthy bacteria in your vagina. When the balance is off, it often results in burning, itching and sometimes yeast infections. Try unscented and natural soaps to keep down there clean, fresh and healthy.
Don’t douche. Just don’t do it. Douching can cause infections to spread even further to your cervix and uterus. If your goal is to avoid being uncomfortable this summer, then don’t douche.
Yeast infections are fairly common among women, but you don’t have to suffer unnecessarily from them during this season of fun. Just make sure to be proactive about avoiding them.
If you do get one, check out these tips for dealing with yeast infections and other women’s health articles via our blog and knowledge center. Or come in and see one of our compassionate women’s care physicians in our Gainesville and Lake City offices.
