Every summer, you might hear warnings about wet swimsuits. Some people say wearing one will definitely cause a urinary tract infection. Others think it leads to yeast infections or irritation.
So, should you really worry about wearing a wet swimsuit? Or are these summer stories overblown? Let’s look at what actually affects women’s health after swimming.
Can a wet swimsuit be harmful?
A wet swimsuit on its own cannot cause infections because it does not have the bacteria or fungi that lead to illness.
However, spending a long time in a warm, damp swimsuit can make it easier for existing germs to grow.
That’s why doctors suggest not staying in a wet swimsuit for too long, especially if you do it often.
Is it true that a wet swimsuit causes yeast infections?
Yeast infections happen when fungi called Candida, which are normally present in small amounts in a healthy body, start to grow too much.
A wet swimsuit alone does not cause the condition.
But a damp environment can be one of the things that trigger symptoms, especially if there are other reasons, such as:
- antibiotic use;
- a weakened immune system;
- diabetes;
- hormonal changes;
- an imbalance in the vaginal microflora.
What about cystitis?
Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder. It’s most often caused by a bacterial infection: bacteria enter the urethra and then travel to the bladder. Women experience cystitis more often than men due to the structure of their urinary tract.
If after swimming a woman feels burning, frequent urges to urinate, or lower abdominal pain, it does not necessarily mean a wet swimsuit caused cystitis. These symptoms may indicate an already developing urinary tract infection, bladder irritation, or another condition.
Cold by itself does not cause bacterial cystitis, since bacteria are usually needed for an infection. But if you have had cystitis before, you are more likely to get it again. In these cases, staying cold for a long time, like wearing a wet swimsuit, can help trigger it. That’s why women who are prone to cystitis may notice symptoms after swimming or getting chilled.
Recurrent cystitis is usually defined as two or more episodes within six months or three or more within a year.
When should you really change out of your swimsuit?
If you leave the water and go back in to swim again after 15 to 20 minutes, you don’t need to worry.
But if you plan to spend several hours in a wet swimsuit, like having lunch, walking on the boardwalk, or driving home, it’s better to bring dry clothes to change into.
Changing into dry clothes is an easy way to stay comfortable and lower the chances of getting unpleasant symptoms.
What symptoms should you not ignore?
After a beach vacation, you should see a gynecologist if you experience any of the following:
- itching or burning;
- unusual discharge;
- an unpleasant odor;
- pain when urinating;
- lower abdominal pain;
- discomfort that lasts for several days.
Don’t buy antifungal medicines or antibiotics on your own just because you have symptoms after a day at the beach.
These symptoms can be linked to different conditions, and the right treatment depends on what’s causing them.
A few easy habits can help you feel comfortable during your vacation:
- change into a dry swimsuit or clothes after prolonged swimming;
- don’t sit in wet clothes for several hours;
- maintain your usual intimate hygiene without using harsh products;
- choose swimsuits that are breathable and dry quickly;
- do not self-medicate if symptoms appear.
When should you make an appointment with a gynecologist?
If discomfort persists for several days, recurs after every beach vacation, or is accompanied by pain, it’s best not to delay seeing a doctor.
At SILK Medical, you can start with a consultation with a gynecologist.
The doctor will examine you, and if needed, may order lab tests or an ultrasound of your pelvic organs to find out what’s really causing your symptoms. This way, you avoid self-medicating and get the treatment that’s right for you.
Key Points
Wearing a wet swimsuit for a long time does not directly cause yeast infections, cystitis, or other infections. But a damp environment can make existing problems show up faster, especially if you have other risk factors.
The easiest way to lower your risk is to change into dry clothes after a long time at the beach and pay attention to any symptoms that don’t go away.
