Our varying climatic conditions bring with them a host of physical discomforts which need to be addressed adequately.  Women, especially need to be additionally careful about the cleanliness and hygiene of their bodies as they are susceptible to various infections.
Monsoons, though a respite from the heat, comes with their own set of discomforts and inconveniences — damp clothing, mildew and a stale odour are a depressing aspect of the season. The monsoons also bring a number of yeast infections, as well as a high prevalence of vulvo-vaginal infections caused due to damp clothing as you tend to get wet during the monsoons. Vaginal infections like candidiasis are the most common mode of infection in monsoons. Candidiasis, commonly called yeast infection or thrush, is a fungal infection of any of the Candida species, of which Candida albicans is the most common. Candidiasis is the second most common cause of vaginal irritation, or vaginitis, and can also occur on the male genitals. Symptoms include severe itching, burning, and soreness, irritation of the vagina and/or vulva, and a whitish or whitish-gray discharge, often with a curd-like appearance.
*To minimise the chances of recurrent vulvo-vaginal infections, maintaining the constant hygiene of the vaginal area is very crucial. Avoid using antiseptic liquids, soaps, deodorants, talcum powder to mask the odour and to wash that sensitive area. These products are not ideal as they can be too harsh and take away the moisture and natural suppleness from the area. Inadvertent usage could also be a cause of infection. Use of a good feminine hygiene wash that has lactic acid and lactoserum is essential during the monsoons. Lactic acid is naturally present in the vagina and maintains the pH balance, moisture and normal flora of the area and Lactoserum is a hydro-mineralized fraction of cow’s milk, which serves as a good moisturiser. A feminine hygiene wash with these properties helps in retaining the natural balance, which is lost during an infection and its treatment through antibiotics.
*Regular use of a feminine hygiene wash (while taking a shower and atleast twice during the course of the day) avoids the occurrence of infections. You can also consult your doctor for the usage and availability of such feminine hygiene products in the market, which would also assist in tackling infections if accompanied by an appropriate antibiotic course.
It is essential to follow the rules of good hygiene during monsoons like the following;
*Wear clean dry underwear. Avoid being in damp underwear in monsoons, if possible change your underwear atleast twice during the day
*To help keep your vulval / genital area dry, switch to all-cotton underwear and make sure you carefully dry off after you shower. If possible, wear cotton underwear to bed
*Change sanitary pads often when menstruating.
*If you are travelling and are compelled to use public washrooms, make sure the toilet seat is germ-free or avoid sitting on it