Summer lovers know the tricks of the trade to protect themselves from the perils of spending all day outdoors—consistent hydration, head-to-toe sun protection, and sufficient bug repellent (especially when eating dinner al fresco). But for people with vaginas, some of the most annoying summertime situations can happen below the belt. How do you carpe diem all summer long while also keeping your vaginal health in check? Read on.
What Makes A Balanced Vagina?
Before diving into specific tips, it's important to understand what contributes to vaginal balance—and imbalance. For an in-depth exploration of vaginal balance, check out this blog post, “The Importance of Balanced Vaginal pH” from Delaney Schick, RN, BSN. The vagina maintains a delicate, slightly acidic pH balance, which is friendly to beneficial bacteria called Lactobacillus. These bacteria not only support overall vaginal health, but also help prevent infections and irritation.
Besides hormonal fluctuations that happen throughout the month and our lifetime, other external factors such as hygiene practices, diet (including alcohol intake), clothing choices and exposure to chemicals or irritants can throw off this balance.
You can see, then, why summer can be an especially precarious time for vaginal health. Laying by the pool on a hot day, going for dips and enjoying some cocktails may seem like the perfect August day. But wearing a wet, chlorine-soaked bathing suit for hours on end can force the body to have to work extra hard to maintain that delicate vaginal balance, leading to infection-causing pathogens gaining the upper hand.
Vagina-Friendly Swimming Tips
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Pre-swim preparation. Hydration is key! Drink plenty of water (sorry, beer doesn’t count) before swimming to stay hydrated, which supports vaginal health by maintaining vaginal fluid balance. Empty your bladder before you swim, as peeing before taking a dip can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.
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Post-swim care. Shower immediately after swimming to rinse off chlorine or saltwater to prevent irritation. Clean the vulva with a gentle soap safe for the intimate area, or at the very least change out of your wet swimsuit ASAP. Prolonged exposure to damp, non-breathable clothing can create a breeding ground for bad bacteria. If you plan to wear that bathing suit again before washing, make sure to wash the crotch area with a gentle, pH-balanced soap.
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All summer long, avoid harsh cleansers. Steer clear of scented soaps and douches that can disrupt vaginal pH and natural flora.
Managing Sweat and Heat
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Focus on breathable fabrics. As much as possible, opt for cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to allow airflow, reducing trapped moisture and preventing bacterial growth.
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Avoid tight clothing. Summer is the time to switch up your favorite leggings for some silky shorts. Tight clothing might make some yoga poses easier, but if you’re playing pickleball in the afternoon heat or hiking in the blazing sun, those body-hugging bottoms can trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort and potential yeast infections.
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Stay dry down there. Pat the vaginal area dry after sweating to maintain cleanliness and prevent irritation.
Navigating Saltwater Exposure
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Rinse off thoroughly. After swimming in the ocean, rinse with fresh water to remove salt, sand and whatever else might be in that ocean water that could cause irritation.
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Moisturize if needed. Saltwater can be drying, so consider using a gentle intimate skin moisturizer to soothe the vulva and bikini area.
More General Tips for Maintaining Vaginal Health in Summer
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Stay cool and dry. Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat and humidity, which can increase sweat production and discomfort.
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Maintain a (mostly) balanced diet. No summer would be complete without a frosé, some ice cream and a hot dog or three, but balancing those fun indulgences with a diet rich in probiotics and low in sugars helps support vaginal flora. If you’re not regularly taking a vaginal health-supporting probiotic like URO, there’s no more important time to start than summer!
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Don’t stay thirsty, stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall hydration and vaginal moisture.
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Practice safe sex: Use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted infections and pee before and after sex to prevent vaginal pH-disrupting microorganisms from wreaking havoc.
Don’t Wait To Address Common Concerns
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Vaginal Odor. Mild, musky odors are normal, but strong or fishy odors could indicate an infection. Keep a gentle whole body deodorant handy for mild odors that can occur, and always consult your doctor if you notice strong and/or unusual smells.
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Yeast Infections. If you notice symptoms like itching, unusual discharge or odor, consult your healthcare provider. They can recommend appropriate treatment, which may include antifungal medications.
- UTIs. Pee after swimming and stay well hydrated to reduce the risk of UTIs. If symptoms like frequent urination or pain occur, seek medical advice promptly.
Staying on top of your vaginal health during the summer involves intentional and often additional hygiene, comfortable clothing choices and practicing proactive self-care—but it’s so worth it. Incorporating these tips into your summertime routine will help you enjoy outdoor activities with confidence, knowing you're supporting your vagina’s ability to stay balanced, healthy and happy.
