Swimming is a must-do activity for enjoying the summer, but it also increases the risk of vaginal yeast infections. Here's some important information to help you enjoy the pool or spa without fear of yeast vaginitis this summer.

First, what is yeast vaginitis?

Yeast vaginitis, also known as vaginal mycosis or fungal vaginitis, is a generally harmless infection caused by an imbalance in the "vaginal flora". This imbalance leads to the growth of a fungus called Candida albicans, most often the cause of vaginal yeast infections.

A balanced vaginal environment can be disturbed by various factors common to the summer, including swimming, heat and humidity, which explains why spas, pools and wet swimwear worn for too long can lead to this type of infection in women.

What are the main symptoms of vaginitis?

• Intense itching in the vulvar or vaginal area
• A burning sensation when urinating or during sexual intercourse
• Thick, whitish vaginal discharge
• Redness, swelling or inflammation of the vulva.

What's the difference between yeast vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis?

There are different types of vaginal infection, and it's not always easy to tell them apart. For example, yeast vaginitis is often confused with another infection called bacterial vaginosis, which also lists bathing, heat and humidity among its risk factors. Although their causes and symptoms may sometimes resemble each other, these two types of infection do not have the same origin.

• Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina caused by an infection (such as from yeast), an irritation or an allergic reaction.
• As for vaginosis, it's a condition caused by an imbalance in vaginal flora, but due to overgrowth of certain bacteria, and not fungi. Unlike vaginitis, vaginosis rarely causes itching, but can result in grey discharge and an unpleasant odour.

It's vital to identify the type of infection and obtain a medical diagnosis before drawing any conclusions, since treatments differ depending on the type of infection.

 

Swimming: A risk factor

What a pleasure it is to be able to enjoy a lake, the sea, a pool or a spa, and then bask in the sun, letting your skin and swimsuit dry in the wind and warm rays... but be careful, since this habit can contribute to the development of a vaginal infection! It's the combination of different factors that makes swimming a well-known risk factor for vaginitis.

Can chlorine irritate the vulva?

Although it has disinfectant properties against many bacteria and viruses, chlorine is not sufficiently antifungal to eliminate the yeast already present on the skin or in the vaginal area. Prolonged exposure to chlorine in the spa or swimming pool can unbalance the vaginal flora, irritating the mucous membranes and altering the vagina's natural pH. This imbalance makes the environment more vulnerable to yeast growth, increasing the risk of developing yeast vaginitis.

Can seawater irritate the vulva?

Yes, seawater can irritate the vulva, although it's generally less aggressive than chlorinated water. In fact, genital skin and mucous membranes can be irritated by any of the following:

• Salt, which can dry out the skin and mucous membranes, causing tingling or burning sensations, especially if the skin is already weakened.
• Sand, which can seep into underwear or swimwear, causing chafing and irritation.
• Prolonged humidity, which creates a warm, moist environment, conducive to infections and vaginal flora imbalances.

Can I go to the spa or pool with mycosis?

Going to the spa with vaginal mycosis is not recommended for several reasons:

• Increased discomfort: The heat and humidity of the spa, as well as chlorine from swimming pools, can further irritate the vaginal area, intensifying the itching, burning and redness associated with infection.
• Less effective treatment: Prolonged immersion in water (especially chlorinated or warm water) can reduce the effectiveness of antifungal treatments, whether topical or vaginal, which can slow healing.
• Disruption of vaginal flora: Even if yeast vaginitis is not contagious, the warm, humid environment of a spa or pool can lead to an imbalance in intimate flora, both in you and in other already-sensitive people.

In short, it's best to wait until treatment is completed, and your symptoms of infection have disappeared, before returning to the water. Here are a few best practices to follow if you decide to go!

 

Preventive measures for yeast vaginitis at the spa or pool

Preventing vaginal yeast infections starts with proper hygiene, using lukewarm water, mild soap and gentle cleansing once a day.

Here are a few tips to reduce the risk of vaginal infection in women following a swim.

• Dry the genital area well with a towel (be careful, however, not to rub too hard).
• Don't wear your wet swimsuit for too long: Change immediately after swimming into clean, dry underwear.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and humidity: Look for cool, dry places instead.
• Don't use superfluous products like douches and powders: These products offer no benefit as a prevention and may even contribute to an imbalance in vaginal flora.

Other day-to-day preventive measures

Whether you are swimming or not, there are obviously other habits to adopt to preserve the balance of vaginal flora and reduce the risk of yeast vaginitis:

• Always wipe from front to back, to avoid transferring bacteria to the vaginal area.
• Wear cotton, breathable underwear, and avoid tight-fitting clothes that promote dampness.
• Choose natural, absorbent fabrics like cotton rather than synthetics, which trap heat and moisture.
• Change panty liners or sanitary pads regularly, even when there's no heavy flow.
• Avoid scented products in the intimate area: strong soaps, wipes, tampons or scented toilet paper can irritate or unbalance the flora.
• Limit tight pants and favour comfortable clothing, especially when it's hot or humid.

 

Treatments for yeast vaginitis

Several over-the-counter medications are highly effective in treating vaginal yeast infections. These antifungal products may come as suppositories, vaginal ovules, creams or oral capsules. Some can be found directly on the shelves, while others require consultation with your pharmacist. Under certain conditions, your pharmacist might prescribe a product adapted to your situation.

 

When should you seek medical advice for a vaginal yeast infections?

Although yeast vaginitis is generally benign and can sometimes disappear on its own, it becomes important to consult your doctor in certain situations:

• If this is the first time you've experienced these symptoms (to confirm that it is indeed a yeast infection).
• If your symptoms are intense, recurrent or persistent, in spite of treatment.
• If you have doubts about the cause of symptoms (mycosis, vaginosis, or other infections).
• If you are pregnant, diabetic or immunosuppressed (weakened immune system).

Consult your pharmacist for worry-free swimming

Whether it's choosing the right intimate hygiene product, finding the right treatment for an infection, or simply answering your questions, your pharmacist is there to guide you and help you enjoy the summer with complete peace of mind, before, during and after swimming.