Those who work out more often can be prone to vaginal infections because movement generates warmth and moisture that can easily get trapped in the inner and outer folds of your vulva.
If and when these exterior skin folds — respectively called the labia minora and labia majora — are sweaty or damp for extended periods of time, it creates the perfect environment for yeast and harmful bacteria to thrive.
Sexual wellness trailblazer and co-founder of certified organic and cruelty-free vaginal wellness brand Momotaro, Lindsay Wynn has teamed up with @balancedblackgirlpodcast to help fitness lovers work out without compromising their vaginal health.
Finding a balance between fitness and vaginal health IS possible. Lindsay and @balancedblackgirlpodcast share their post-workout vaginal care tips to support your vaginal health and prevent irritation and infection.
1. Take a shower or rinse off ASAP after your workout
If possible, change out of sweaty workout clothes as soon as you can after your workout ends. Ideally, you’ll want to take a shower or rinse your vaginal area to prevent the growth of any harmful bacteria that may have surfaced during your workout.
If you can’t shower immediately, keep an extra pair of (breathable, cotton) underwear to change into and, at the very least, be sure to wipe away excess sweat.
Try using a water-based product like Hydrosol to feel refreshed while maintaining your pH balance and eliminating sweat and odour.
The light blend of Rosemary, Orange Blossom, and Rose Water makes Hydrosol an antimicrobial powerhouse that can help prevent skin irritation and body breakouts.
2. Dry off well before getting dressed
After your shower, make sure your vulva is thoroughly dry before getting dressed. Getting dressed while your vulva is still wet can trap excess moisture around your vaginal area, which can cause yeast or bacterial overgrowth, leading to infection or imbalance.
Instead of immediately getting dressed after bathing, try slowing down and creating a personal care ritual while you get ready. Take your time moisturizing your skin with Body Oil, or tending to your skincare routine to give your vulva time to air dry before getting dressed.
3. Try not to live in workout clothes 24/7
I know it’s tempting to live in leggings – workout clothes are just so damn comfortable. However, when you are constantly wearing tight workout clothes, or worse, not changing out of your workout clothes post-activity, clothing items that lay close to the skin and trap in heat can leave you vulnerable to infection.
Though I regularly shower and change post-workout, in the past I would immediately put on another pair of leggings which wasn’t providing the breathability I needed to maintain a healthy pH.
I’m sure I’m not the only person who’s made that mistake. Make sure you’re alternating tight-fitting synthetic fabrics with loose breathable clothing items to promote breathability.
4. Mix up your exercise intensity and activity
Some forms of exercise can make maintaining a healthy pH more challenging. If you like to swim, take note that the chlorine present can dry out your skin and kill the good bacteria, disturbing your vaginal pH.
Cycling, specifically, has also been linked to vaginal infections due to the seat’s pressure on the pubic area and increased heat and moisture buildup.
If you rely heavily on swimming and cycling as your only form of exercise and notice vaginal discomfort or increased infection you may want to incorporate other forms of cardio into your routine to give your vaginal area a break from the inevitable pressure and moisture.
You can still get benefits from low-intensity aerobic exercise like walking, or even playing with your pup in the park without putting more stress on your body.
Additionally, hair removal options such as waxing or shaving can make you more susceptible to infection when immediately followed by a high-intensity workout.
Your skin is already sensitized, so try incorporating lower-intensity workouts where you’re less likely to accumulate heat in that area until you’re a few days post-hair removal.