Monsoons are a lovely time to enjoy. However, this beautiful season brings along a host of challenges when it comes to your health. 

While we are quite aware of bacterial and viral infections during the monsoons, it is the fungal infections, especially the ones affecting women, that are less talked about. 

Monsoons can trigger vaginal infections and therefore women need to practice extra caution when it comes to personal hygiene. 

Vaginal candidiasis or vaginal yeast infection is a common condition that affects women during the monsoons. It can cause abnormal discharge, irritation and intense itching in the vulvovaginal region (includes the vagina and the vulva, which are the tissues at the vaginal opening).

But you need not worry! These vaginal infections can be easily managed with proper precautions and prescription medications. 

Here are some easy and effective tips to prevent fungal infections during the monsoons.

1. Keep Yourself Clean And Dry

  • Clean the vaginal area at least twice a day with mild soap and water.

  • Avoid vaginal douching (flushing the vagina with water or other fluids) and use of harsh soaps or female hygiene washes as it can disrupt the vaginal pH levels.

  • Use a backstroke while cleaning the vaginal region, that is from front to back to prevent germs from the anus from entering the vagina. 

  • Make sure to clean your vagina after having sexual intercourse, as it helps reduce the chances of an infection.

2. Trim Your Pubic Hair

  • Pubic hair plays a protective role. It helps minimise the spread of bacteria and reduces the risk of infection. 

  • It also reduces friction during sexual intercourse. Hence, do not completely remove your pubic hair and keep it trimmed instead.

3. Wear Light Breathable Clothes

  • Using tight-fitting underwear can reduce airflow to your vagina. 

  • This can cause perspiration (sweating) and lead to itching, and rashes.

  • It is recommended that you use light cotton undergarments as they can absorb moisture and reduce the risk of infections.

4. Follow Good Menstrual Hygiene

  • Be it any season, following menstrual hygiene is very important to avoid infections.

  • As the rainy season is more humid, it increases the chances of infections especially during the time of menstruation.

  • Make sure that you change your sanitary pads every four hours and tampons every two hours to avoid the chances of an infection.

  • Avoid contact with wet clothes. They can create a favourable environment for disease-causing germs to grow and multiply.

5. Consume probiotics

  • Probiotics such as curd, lassi, buttermilk and yoghurt help maintain the vaginal pH just like they help maintain healthy bacteria in your gut. 

  • Switch to these easily available items to maintain healthy vaginal pH and ward off fungal vaginal infections.

6. Ditch Fried and Spicy Foods

  • Foods that are too oily and spicy can disrupt the pH levels of your vagina, making you prone to vaginal infections.

  • Hence, take freshly cooked light meals, seasonal fruits, and natural drinks such as lemon juice and coconut water to avoid drastic changes in your vaginal pH.

Try incorporating these simple and useful tips into your daily routine. Following them during the monsoons will safeguard you against common monsoon fungal infections. 

In case you notice any unusual vaginal symptoms, do not panic or self medicate. Stay calm and visit your gynaecologist at the earliest to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

 

References:

1. Mayo Clinic. 2021. Yeast infection (vaginal) - Symptoms and causes. [online] Available at: <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999> [Accessed 24 August 2021].

2. Health shots. 2021. Guard yourself against vaginal infections during monsoon with these 7 tips. [online] Available at: <https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/7-tips-to-prevent-vaginal-infections-during-monsoon/> [Accessed 24 August 2021].

3. WebMD. 2021. What Are Vaginal Yeast Infections?. [online] Available at: <https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/understanding-vaginal-yeast-infection-basics> [Accessed 24 August 2021].


Disclaimer: This article is written by Practo for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.