Intimate problems are common to many women and there is no age group that is not affected.
Intimate itching, burning, pain both internal and external, altered vaginal discharge, vaginal dryness and discomfort during sexual intercourse are some of the symptoms.
Heat, salt water, sand, sweat, swimming costumes, tight clothing and the wrong cleansers can give rise to irritation and discomfort. Sometimes, these discomforts can develop into vulvovaginitis due to candida, gardnerella or other microbial agents, and in some cases it is a good idea to consult a gynaecologist.
Often the first episode of intimate discomfort in a woman's life occurs right around and after her period.
Problems related to the colon, both constipation and diarrhoea, which are more frequent in hot weather, can also facilitate infections; in fact, the vagina and rectum are close together and, due to stagnation of faeces, colonisation of the former by microorganisms such as bacteria that normally inhabit the intestine can occur.
Unprotected sexual intercourse, poor or inadequate intimate hygiene, and taking medication, especially antibiotics, alter the vaginal flora and increase the risk of infection.
You can prevent these problems with a few simple gestures:
- If you are at the seaside try to change your swimming costume, don't keep it wet.
- Do not exchange towels, towels and underwear.
- If you wear tight or tight-fitting clothing such as sportswear, try to change as soon as you can.
- If you use an internal tampon, change it every 2 to 3 hours.
- If you use a panty shield, try to change it often.
- Use gentle products for intimate hygiene.
- Remember to hydrate yourself, drinking at least 2 litres of water a day. This is a good habit always, not only in summer.