Your guide to vaginal care this summer

Summer is in full swing. Among all the pool parties and tropical vacations, don’t forget to add “vaginal care” to your to-do list. Summer heat and humidity can create an environment ripe for discomfort and potential infections, but you can be proactive when it comes to supporting your vaginal health. From choosing certain clothing to maintaining good hygiene practices, here's a guide to help you keep your vaginal health in check this summer.

1. Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your overall health–but did you know that includes your genital health, too? Drinking plenty of water plays a critical role in keeping vaginal tissues moisturized and maintaining a healthy pH balance, which can help prevent infections and discomfort. Dehydration can lead to dryness, irritation, and an increased risk of bacterial and yeast infections. Not only does drinking enough water support your genital health, but it also boosts your energy levels and cognitive function. So, if you’re looking to have some partnered fun this summer, you’ll be hydrated and ready to go. Just remember, while drinking plenty of water keeps your skin plump and hydrated, water is not lube! Silicone-based lubricants are fairly water resistant, so they may be your best bet for comfortable, and pleasurable, underwater intercourse.If you’re enjoying a few cocktails with friends or spending a lot of time in the sun this summer, make sure you’re staying hydrated with water or other non-alcoholic beverages.

2. Wear breathable clothing

In the hot summer months, wearing breathable clothing keeps the vulva and vaginal area dry and cool. Cotton underwear and loose-fitting garments allow for better air circulation, reducing moisture and minimizing the risk of infections like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. What better way to participate in coastal grandma core summer than flowy, breathable cotton or linen pants? Your vulva will thank you.

3. Don’t lounge in your wet swimsuit

And if there’s one thing coastal grandmas don’t do, it’s sit around in wet swimsuit bottoms. Damp environments create the perfect breeding ground for yeast, leading to uncomfortable yeast infections. Wearing wet swimsuit bottoms for long periods of time can disrupt your pH balance, causing Candida overgrowth (the fungus responsible for yeast infections). To protect your vaginal health, it's important to change into dry clothing as soon as possible after swimming. This simple habit can significantly reduce your risk of infections this summer.

4. Skip the scents

As temperatures rise, you may find yourself showering more frequently to stay fresh. When it comes to cleaning your vaginal area, avoid scented soaps and cleansers. These products can irritate the sensitive skin of the vulva and vagina, increasing your risk of infections and discomfort. Instead, opt for gentle, unscented soaps or simply use water. Your vagina is self-cleaning and keeping things simple helps promote vaginal health. While your vulva and vagina don't need to smell like a meadow of daisies, if you notice a fishy vaginal odor that is not normal for you, you might want to talk to a provider to diagnose and treat bacterial vaginosis, or BV. 

5. Practice safe sex

This summer and always, practicing safe sex is crucial to maintain the health of you and your partners. If you’re sexually active (and especially if you have new and/or multiple partners), try to make regular STI testing a part of your routine. Communicating STI status to your partner(s) can seem daunting, but it’s a key part of responsible intimacy and helps to build trust. Fun fact: using condoms doesn’t just prevent the spread of STIs. A 2008 study found that using condoms reduces the risk of contracting bacterial vaginosis (BV) by 45%. By prioritizing safe sex practices, you're taking a proactive step to protect your well-being and foster healthy, respectful relationships (summer fling or otherwise). 

6. Use sunscreen 

When it comes to sun protection, most of us think face, arms, and legs. But if you’re one for nude sunbathing (we’re not here to judge), it's important to remember that any part of your body exposed to the sun can benefit from sunscreen, including your nipples and genitals. The skin of these areas is particularly delicate and prone to sunburn, which can be not only uncomfortable but also risky in terms of long-term skin health. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 for all skin types. Opt for sunscreens made for sensitive skin and avoid products that contain fragrance, parabens, or the sunscreen filter oxybenzone to avoid irritation. You may want to try a mineral sunscreen (with filters like zinc oxide) if chemical sunscreens cause irritation to sensitive areas. Remember to reapply as directed to avoid irritation and sun damage.

7. Pack extra contraception

While adequate contraception doesn’t exactly fall under the category of protecting your vaginal health this summer, preventing unplanned pregnancy is always in season. When packing for your next vacation, consider bringing extra protection or contraception to ensure coverage in the event of travel delays or unexpected changes to your itinerary. Exposure to high temperatures in summer months can reduce the efficacy of birth control pills and shorten the lifespan of condoms, so make sure to store these in a cool, dry place. Depending on where you’re headed, you may be unfamiliar with local laws related to emergency contraception access–consider packing emergency contraception to stay safe and discreet abroad. You can contact a healthcare provider like Hey Jane or your local pharmacy for emergency contraception before your trip.As you navigate the summer heat, prioritize hygiene, stay hydrated, and choose the right products like breathable clothing and sunscreen. You can enjoy the season while keeping discomfort at bay.