Vaginal Infections in Summer: 5 Common Habits That Increase Risk Without You Noticing

Vaginal Infections Are More Common in Summer. Here’s Why

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Journal of Gynecologic Infections, warm and humid weather increases the risk of yeast and bacterial infections, especially if women wear tight, non-breathable underwear or use scented products.

🔍 5 Habits That Secretly Raise Your Risk:

1. Wearing tight or synthetic underwear
Lace and nylon trap moisture and heat — a perfect breeding ground for infections.

✅ Tip: Choose breathable 100% cotton panties.

2. Using scented pads or wipes
Fragrances can irritate the vulva and disrupt natural flora.

✅ Tip: Go fragrance-free and change pads often.

3. Staying in a wet swimsuit
Sitting in damp swimwear increases fungal growth risk.

✅ Tip: Change into dry clothes immediately after swimming.

4. Over-washing or using vaginal douches
These strip away protective bacteria and alter pH.

✅ Tip: Wash only the outer vulva with warm water — nothing inside.

5. Stress, late nights, spicy food
These weaken immunity and throw off vaginal flora balance.

✅ Tip: Prioritize sleep, eat a balanced diet, and take probiotics.

📊 WHO estimates over 300 million vaginal infections globally per year, with up to 30% increase during hot weather.