Summer swim days are officially here. This means your vagina is going to need extra TLC to stay in tip top health this season and beyond. Cue the best probiotics for vaginal health, including our very own Private Party. Dive in with us…
Pool parties are one of the best ways to beat the summer heat. But while a summertime swim sesh makes for great memories, it can also cause unexpected discomfort down there. Heat, chlorine, and hours in damp swimwear can throw things off, causing vaginal irritation or infections. “Traditional chlorine and salt water pools have a basic pH, so prolonged exposure can alter the vaginal pH, which should be less than 4.5,” says Dr. Christie Cobb, MD, an obstetrician gynecologist. “Imbalances in pH increase the risk of bacterial imbalances and can be symptomatic of bacterial vaginosis.” But here’s the good news: There are simple, easy steps you can take to prevent this from happening.
Below, we break down six things you need to do for your vagina post pool day. Plus, the best probiotics for vaginal health so you can enjoy some fun in the sun without worry.
Change Out of Your Wet Swimsuit ASAP
It may be tempting to hang out in your swimmie, but Dr. Cobb says this is the worst thing you can do for your vaginal health. “Changing into dry clothes from a wet swimsuit is the most important line of defense,” she says. “Any warm and moist environment increases the risk for a yeast infection.”
Hit the Bathroom
The second-best thing you can do post pool party? Use the restroom after leaving a pool, hot tub, or water park attraction (like a water slide). “In addition to vaginal infections, any retrograde flow of water into the urethra can increase the risk of a bladder infection,” Dr. Cobb says. Even if you don’t need to use the bathroom, try to expel any potential water.
Wash Your Vagina
Both chlorine and salt water are drying, which can cause irritation. Wash the area with soap and water to minimize this risk. “Bathing after swimming should include the same gentle cleanser that is used for daily vulvar hygiene,” Dr. Cobb says. “If there’s travel involved after swimming and a shower isn’t immediately available, there are also feminine wipes available, which can help with pH balance and decrease the risk of irritation.
Change Your Tampon or Menstrual Cup
If it’s that time of the month, you can still enjoy the pool with the right products. Whether you’re wearing a tampon or a menstrual cup, Dr. Cobb says to change them before and after a pool party. “Wearing a tampon isn’t associated with an increased risk of infection, but it is good practice to change it both before and after swimming,” she says. “The same goes for menstrual cups, which can be popular for summer use because there’s no risk of pool water being absorbed.”
Do Not Douche
Giving yourself a deep clean after a day in the pool sounds like a good idea, but it will only cause problems down the line. “Do not douche,” Dr. Cobb says. “This is never recommended.” Studies have found douching can disrupt the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina, leading to infection, inflammation, and an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Add a Probiotic to Your Routine
Whether you’re heading to one or one hundred pool parties this summer, taking a probiotic can help keep things balanced.
In fact, 100% of subjects in a consumer survey felt more confident down there after taking HUM’s Private Party. That’s because our blend of probiotic strains (Lactobacillus acidophilus (La-14), L. rhamnosus, and L. reuteri) help restore vaginal flora, maintain yeast balance, and promote overall vaginal health. These strains naturally occur in a healthy vaginal microbiome and have clinically-tested benefits from oral supplementation. HUM’s supplements are also Clean Label Product Certified, meaning they’ve been rigorously tested to ensure they meet high standards for purity and safety.
FAQs
Can I take Private Party with other supplements?
Yes, Private Party can generally be taken with other supplements, including other HUM probiotics (like Skin Squad or Gut Instinct). Different probiotics provide different benefits, so the more diversity, the better.
Can I take Private Party while pregnant?
Probiotics are generally safe for pregnancy, but it’s best to check with your doctor before adding new supplements to your routine.
Will Private Party help treat yeast infections, UTIs, or other medical conditions?
Private Party isn’t intended to treat infections or medical conditions. If you think you have an infection, talk to your doctor.
