Suffering From Vaginal Yeast Infection In Summer? Know Its Treatment & Prevention

One of the most common ailments that female patients complain about during summer is a yeast infection. One-third of all vaginal infections are yeast infections. Summers are especially the time when reported cases of yeast infections in women surge up. This is because the hot weather makes it easier for yeast to grow in the body. However, a lot of it also depends upon hygiene and so yeast infections can also occur at any time of the year. 

This fungal infection happens due to the moisture and heat trapped in the vagina. Intense itchiness, painful sexual intercourse and pain during urination, burning sensation, discharge and vaginal irritation are some of the common symptoms of this condition.

In the journal, Open Forum Infectious Diseases, a review published indicates that yeast infection of the vagina or vaginal thrush affected approximately 2.4 crore women of reproductive age, with repeated attacks. Some women tend to suffer in silence until their condition worsens to the point that it hampers their daily lives as they feel ashamed of sharing problems about their sexual health. Let’s take a look at how to prevent future infections and what you can do for treatment if you have a yeast infection.

Why does Yeast Infection occur/become Worse in Summer and is it Seasonal?

Summer is that time of the year when there are a lot of patients visiting a doctor for yeast infections as yeast is an organism that thrives in a damp and warm environment. Hot weather is conducive for the growth of the yeast in the body and the humidity in the weather causes moisture and sweating in the intimate parts, although the infection can happen during any time of the year.  Females usually wear Spanx and swimsuits in summer, which increases the risk of getting a yeast infection. 

Can Heat and Sweat Cause a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Yes, heat and sweat are the primary factors in causing vaginal yeast infection. Yeast thrives in a moist and warm environment. Wearing tight-fitting clothes like swimsuits raises the chances of developing the infection as they trap moisture and heat inside. 

Apart from sweating, there are other things which cause yeast infections, like medical conditions ranging from HIV and diabetes, to obesity, pregnancy and unhealthy lifestyle habits. 

Finishing a course of antibiotics can also be the reason for the infection as it wipes out the normal bacteria in the vagina that would usually prevent the infection from occurring in the first place. 

One can also be prone to yeast infection due to postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy, increased estrogen levels and immunosuppression – patients who are on immunosuppressive medications, have HIV or are taking long courses of steroids. 

How do You Prevent Vaginal Yeast Infections in Hot Weather?

If you’re sweating in your workout leggings or wearing a wet swimsuit, then change them as you can. Use an unscented hypoallergenic soap to cleanse the vulvar area when you bathe. Don’t wash inside the vagina as this will wash away the protective bacteria and allow infective bacteria and yeast to grow. Stay away from harsh laundry detergents and sleep without underwear. 

Also Read: Stomach Pain During Early Pregnancy

Here are Some Tips for Staying Itch-Free and Balancing Your Vaginal ph Level

Wearing Loose Cotton Underwear

Proper ventilation is the most important thing to reduce moisture and sweating in your intimate area. Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding polyester material underwear and Spanx is recommended, especially if you sweat or exercise a lot. Keep your intimate area clean by taking a shower.

If you wear tight clothes or exercise for an extended period, it is advisable to avoid wearing underwear while sleeping and taking a shower before bed to increase ventilation. Change your wet bathing suit and get into dry cotton underwear if you go to the beach. 

Avoid Using Fragrant Products Near Your Intimate Area

Soaps with chemicals and toxic ingredients, creams, perfumes and body sprays are not recommended. During baths and showers, fragrance-free soap and warm water is the best way to clean your vagina. Also, ensure that soap should only be applied to the external parts of the vagina. 

No Douching

The risk of vaginal infections increases if women douche (washing out the vagina with a liquid solution or spraying a stream of water).

Eating a Healthy Diet

Eating habits should be improved if you feel pain or itching down there. A great way to fight the yeast both externally and internally is by consuming yoghurt without sugar. Sugar intake should be reduced as it helps in the growth of yeast. Drinking lots of water is also good for your body as it is helpful if you are suffering from yeast infections. 

Get tested and be Safe 

Certain sexually transmitted infections and yeast infections have similar symptoms, like itchiness and burning sensation when urinating. You must use protection to prevent STDs if you are sexually active or have multiple partners. Consult a health care provider and get tested if you experience other symptoms of STDs or experience discomfort. This will help identify the treatment required and the cause of the symptoms.

Taking Medicines Timely

Your healthcare provider will prescribe an antifungal cream for yeast infection which contains fluconazole or an oral medication after diagnosis. Getting over-the-counter medicines are not advised by doctors for yeast infections as taking them without the disease can cause a resistant infection which is difficult to treat.

At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get a prompt diagnosis and treatment by a reputed Gynecologist. This patient-centric approach not only helps the patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you face any symptoms, do reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Renu Mathur at the CK Birla Hospital. (Booking Link)

FAQ’s

Does Sweating Increase Yeast Infection?

Sweating raises the chance of yeast infection growth, especially in tight-fitting clothing as yeast thrives in a warm and moist environment. 

Does Heat Speed up Yeast?

Heat, just like sweat, increases the risk of yeast infection growth as it is part of an ideal environment in which yeast grows and multiplies. 

Should I Self-treat Vaginal Yeast Infection?

You should not try self-treatment of the yeast infection such as washing the inside of the vagina as it gets rid of the protective bacteria and promotes the growth of yeast instead. Using over-the-counter medicines is not advised too as it causes a resistant infection which is difficult to treat.