Women be alert: A steep rise in UTI and vaginal infection during monsoon

Women be alert: A steep rise in UTI and vaginal infection during monsoon

Monsoon not only causes gastric problems but even urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal infections. Even though the monsoon is known to provide that much–needed relief from the scorching heat, a large number of women fall prey to infections that need timely intervention. The sudden weather changes during this pleasant season increase one’s chances of suffering from various infections.

“Urinary tract infection (UTI), is a bacterial infection of any part of the urinary system including kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. The bacteria down there can multiply in females during monsoon inviting symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensation during passing urine, cloudy, bloody, and dark urine, tiredness, lower back pain, fever, chills , nausea, foul smell while urination, and pelvic pain. Women tend to suffer from these infections frequently as they have a shorter urinary tract when compared to males."

"A large number of women may also experience recurrent UTIs that can steal their peace of mind. Monsoon can lead to low immunity in women making them prone to UTIs. Apart from poor hygiene, wearing tight synthetic underwear, using chemical-laden products down there, and wiping from back to front can invite a UTI. The bacteria of the bowel spread to one’s urinary tract when women wipe from back to front. One has to be extremely cautious when it comes to preventing UTIs in monsoon,” said Dr Kiran Coelho, Senior Gynaecologist, Lilavati Hospital.

“To prevent UTIs and other vaginal infections, stay hydrated by drinking enough water, don’t hold the urine and try to empty the bladder, wear loose undergarments and clothing made out of cotton fabric, maintain good hygiene down there, avoid douching or wiping from back to front, don’t use any products containing chemicals that can cause irritation, eat probiotics, change wet or sweaty clothes immediately and be careful while using public restrooms," she added.

"One also has to make sure to change sanitary pads and tampons after every 4-5 hours without fail and dry the vaginal area after washing it. Avoid acidic foods and drinks such as tea, coffee, and sodas that cause bladder irritation and UTIs. Shaving the pubic region during monsoon can also be risky as one can suffer from vaginal infections. Don’t shave as doing so can prevent the spread of bacteria,” concluded Dr Kiran Coelho.

(Dr Kiran Coelho, Senior Gynaecologist, Lilavati Hospital)

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