Summer is a time for swimming, beach days, and soaking up the sun. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or taking a dip in the ocean, one thing is for certain – you’ll be wearing a swimsuit.

While most people know to be careful in the sun and to stay hydrated, few realize the hidden hazards of a wet swimsuit for women. Keep reading to learn more about the potential dangers of wearing a wet swimsuit and what you can do to stay safe this summer.

Urinary Tract Infections

One of the biggest dangers associated with wearing a wet swimsuit for an extended period of time is the risk of developing a urinary tract infection. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments – which is exactly what a wet swimsuit provides.

Wearing a wet swimsuit for too long can lead to the growth of bacteria in the genital area, which can then travel up the urethra and cause an infection. To reduce your risk, make sure to change out of your swimsuit as soon as possible – ideally within 30 minutes of leaving the water.

Yeast Infections

In addition to urinary tract infections, wet swimsuits can also increase the risk of developing a yeast infection. This is because yeast thrives in warm, moist environments – which again, is exactly what a wet swimsuit provides.

If you’re prone to yeast infections or have recently had one, it’s especially important to avoid wearing a wet swimsuit for an extended period of time. Change out of your swimsuit as soon as possible and make sure to thoroughly dry off your genital area before putting on clean, dry clothes.

Chafing

Wearing a wet swimsuit for an extended period of time can also lead to chafing. When the fabric of a swimsuit stays wet against the skin, it can rub and cause friction, which can lead to painful chafing.

If you’re planning to spend a lot of time in the water, consider investing in two swimsuits so that you can change into a dry one when the first one gets too wet. Alternatively, bring along a cover-up or other clothing item to put on over your swimsuit to reduce the risk of chafing.

Heat Rash

Another danger of wearing a wet swimsuit for too long is the risk of developing heat rash. This is especially true if you’re spending time in a hot, humid environment.

Heat rash occurs when sweat is trapped underneath the skin, leading to small, itchy bumps. If you’re wearing a wet swimsuit, sweat is less likely to evaporate and can become trapped against the skin, increasing the risk of heat rash.

Changing out of your swimsuit and into dry clothing as soon as possible can help prevent this uncomfortable condition.

Hygiene

Finally, wearing a wet swimsuit for an extended period of time can also lead to poor hygiene habits. If you’re lounging by the pool or spending time at the beach, it’s easy to forget to change out of your swimsuit and into clean, dry clothing.

However, this can lead to a buildup of bacteria and other germs, which can then be transferred to other areas of the body. To stay hygienic and healthy, make sure to change out of your swimsuit as soon as possible and shower or rinse off before putting on clean, dry clothing.

Conclusion

Wearing a swimsuit is a summer staple, but it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards associated with wearing a wet swimsuit for too long.

From urinary tract infections to chafing, there are many risks that can come from prolonged exposure to a wet swimsuit. To reduce your risk of developing these issues, always change out of your swimsuit as soon as possible and make sure to dry off thoroughly before putting on clean, dry clothing.