During the summer (and fall, here in Arizona) I spend most of my time in a swimsuit. There are days when my friends and I will spend morning to evening out by the pool. So when I am there, I don't think too much about the harm of lounging around in a wet bathing suit because I am having too much fun. But turns out, that is probably unwise.
Some of us can hang out in wet bathing suits for hours, but that is a habit you might want to consider changing. I have suffered from the effects of my own unconcerned attitude of not removing a wet bathing suit. Staying in a wet swimsuit for too long can lead to some nasty outcomes such as vaginal infections.
Why is it bad to lounge in a wet swimsuit?
According to OB/GYN Mache Siebel, “Yeast infections are very common in the warmer months because yeast tends to grow in warm, moist areas. Since many women spend long periods of time in their wet bathing suits, and in the sun, they are more prone to infections.”
There are two types of bacteria that live in the vagina. The beneficial bacteria and the bad bacteria. The bad bacteria, which are referred to as pathogenic bacteria, can cause odor, itching, unwanted discharge, and infections, while the good bacteria help to keep all of this in check.
While some people are more susceptible to these infections, it is never a bad idea to take extra measures when it comes to our health. One of the first ways to avoid a yeast infection is to keep the area dry, which is where lounging in a wet swimsuit comes into play. Since a wet swimsuit sticks to your body and does not allow any breathability, it promotes a warm and moist environment which is where yeast infections thrive.
All water can impact your pH balance, whether it is river water, ocean water, or bath water, but pool water can be extra unfriendly for your pH balance. It is possible that the chemicals and chlorine from the pool may promote an imbalance in vaginal bacteria. Also, some people are more prone to yeast infections. Those who are taking antibiotics, have diabetes, or have a compromised immune system may be more likely to develop a yeast infection from lounging in a wet swimsuit.
Change out of a wet swimsuit as soon as possible
It would be best to try to change into a dry pair of cotton underwear and cover up if you are no longer swimming. If you are not able to change out of your wet swimsuit right away, try to towel dry thoroughly and dry off in the sun to reduce the moisture against your lady parts; this may reduce the risk of developing a yeast infection.
Avoid wearing an unwashed swimsuit
Swimsuits should be one-use items - regardless if they touch any water. Even if your swimsuit looks clean, the material comes into contact with bacteria even after just one use. Bacteria accumulates the next time that you wear it, putting you at risk for infection and irritation. Wash your swimsuit after every use, using hot water and unscented laundry detergent.
Don't share swimsuits
You may be tempted to borrow your bestie's cute suit, but borrowing a swimsuit (even if it is clean) may not be worth it. Swim tops are one thing, but if you are thinking about swapping out bottoms, we would advise against it. If you put on someone else's swimsuit bottoms, you are putting yourself at risk of having direct contact with someone else's potentially harmful germs. After all, you probably wouldn't share your underwear with a girlfriend, swimsuit bottoms have the same contact with the same parts of your body as your underwear would have.
Be careful removing pubic hair
Swimsuit season is often accompanied by waxing and shaving pubic hair, but there is no medical reason to remove this hair. It is important to be aware that shaving or waxing pubic hair may increase your risk of developing infections. If you do remove pubic hair, wait 24-48 hours to wear tight clothing (such as swimsuits) this gives your skin time to heal, and decreases the risk of infections.
Sol Nutrition & swimsuit season
As I mentioned before, if you have a compromised immune system, you will already be at risk for developing a yeast infection. Luckily Sol Nutrition has a supplement for Immunity Defense. The herbal ingredients in this formula help form a strong immune system by helping remove allergens and toxins within your body. This supplement is perfect for those looking for an immunity boost to help you stay strong and healthy.
If you don't have time to change out of your wet swimsuit right away and feel like you have a yeast infection coming on (if you've had one before you know you want to stop them ASAP!) Consider taking our Yeast Away supplement. Yeast Away encourages healthy pH levels and flora which supports your body in reducing burning sensations, redness, and irritation. This blend is ideal for those with excessive amounts of yeast in their bodies.
Takeaway
Summer can somewhat make it challenging to keep things fresh. Turns out lounging in a wet swimsuit for too long can cause a whole range of problems… down there. Adopting some of these simple habits can help you keep enjoying yourself this season.
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