The rainy season can lower immunity in women making them more susceptible to a range of vaginal infections, including a urinary tract infection. A woman’s risk of vaginal infections rises if she practices poor hygiene, uses irritants, wears tight underwear, or often uses tampons or pads. To protect yourself from UTIs, try these suggestions.
Hygiene Matters
Maintaining proper hygiene to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast infections in the vaginal area is a must during the monsoon season.
It is suggested you use mild, pH-balanced products and opt for unscented, hypoallergenicintimate hygiene products to keep the pH perfect.
Stay Dry
Shikha Shikha Agarwal, nutritionist, and wellness consultant, says, “The impact of excess moisture during the monsoon season can lead to bacterial and fungal growth, including yeast infections. Shikha will offer practical advice on staying dry, including wearing breathable cotton underwear, avoiding tight-fitting clothes, and changing out of wet clothes promptly.
Hydration is key
The role of adequate hydration is to help in flushing out toxins from the body, reducing the risk of UTIs and yeast infections. The optimal daily water intake during monsoon should be increased as it might help flush out bacterias inhibiting their growth.
Probiotics for vaginal health
Educate readers about the benefits of incorporating probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and fermented products into their diet. These foods promote the growth of good bacteria, maintaining a healthy vaginal flora and reducing the risk of infections, including yeast infections caused by candida overgrowth.
Avoid Irritants
According to Shikha Shikha Agarwal, “Common irritants that can disrupt the delicate pH balance of the vagina, including harsh soaps and feminine hygiene products. Use gentle, fragrance-free products and discourage the use of scented soaps, bubble baths, and harsh detergents.”
Digestive Health Connection
Don’t ignore the link between digestive health and vaginal health, highlighting the impact of low stomach acid and low bile production on the body’s ability to maintain a healthy vaginal environment. Maintaining optimal digestive health through proper nutrition and lifestyle choices.
Practice Safe Intimacy
“Importance of safe sexual practices, including the use of condoms, to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can also help reduce the risk of UTIs and yeast infections. Washing your genitals after sexual experience is important for maintaining intimacy,” says Shikha Agarwal, who’s also the founder of Nurture.
Natural Remedies
There are certain natural remedies, such as cranberry juice or supplements, which may help prevent UTIs by inhibiting bactenal growth. However, we emphasize the need for medical advice alongside these remedies, especially in the case of persistent yeast infections or recurring UTIs.
Seek Medical Attention
Shikha Agarwal encourages to seek prompt medical assistance if they experience persistent symptoms such as pain, discomfort, itching, or unusual discharge, as these could indicate underlying conditions such as candida overgrowth. Stress the importance of timely intervention to prevent minor issues from escalating into more significant health concerns.