Recommendations for protection against genital infections in summer
Stating that swimming is one of the most beautiful activities that can be done in summer, but not taking proper precautions, sea and pool water increase the risk of infection in women. Faculty member Erhan Hüseyin Cömert stated that with the arrival of the summer months, especially genital fungi, vaginal infections and diseases can be seen in women due to many reasons such as sweat, unsanitary swimming pools, synthetic clothes, wet swimsuits, not taking a shower after the pool or the sea.
A SHOWER AFTER THE POOL AND THE SEA is a must
Dr. Cömert continued as follows:
“Urinary tract infections and fungal infections are common in women during the summer. In general, swimming pools are cleaned with chlorine-based disinfectants to keep them clean. One of the main reasons for pool infections to develop is the chlorine in the pool water. Chlorine can disrupt the vaginal flora. For this reason, it would be appropriate not to prefer the pools during the busiest hours. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that the desired pool is clean. The hot weather in the summer also causes intense sweating. Heat and sweat can also cause various infections if not taken care of. Heat and sweat can create a favorable environment for harmful bacteria in women. Therefore, it is very beneficial to change underwear almost every day. Never stay in a wet swimsuit for a long time as wetness and dampness increase the risk of infection in the genital area. In addition, the higher the cotton content of the underwear worn, the better. The first way to get rid of harmful bacteria that can cause infection in the body is to take a shower before and after entering the sea or swimming pool. This is the first step in protection against genital infection.”
GYNECOLOGICAL EXAMINATION IS RECOMMENDED AFTER THE HOLIDAY SEASON
Dr Lecturer Cömert said: “Under normal circumstances, it is normal to have an odorless and colorless discharge in the genital area. If the color, smell and amount of this discharge changes, there may be an infection. Not all discharge is an infection. If there are symptoms such as itching, bad smell, swelling in the genital area, you should definitely consult a doctor. At the same time, the gynecological examination should be performed after the holiday season is over.
DO NOT USE ALCOHOL OR PERFUME CONTAINING PRODUCTS IN THE GENITAL SPACE
Dr. Cömert said: “Do not sweat excessively in summer, wear cotton underwear, change underwear regularly, do not stay in wet or damp swimsuits, do not enter swimming pools or seas where hygiene is not certain, sanitary towels and tampons in the ideal time during menstruation to swim in the pool or the sea.It is necessary to be careful not to stay for a long time, to consume plenty of water, not to use products containing alcohol or perfume on the genital area. In addition, the frequent use of probiotic foods in a balanced way will reduce the risk of infection.