Beware of infections after swimming in the pool or sea!

Op. Dr. Nevin Numanoğlu, from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, emphasized that vaginal infections from the summer must be treated during this period and offered important suggestions for a healthy autumn and winter.

Numanoğlu said, "Winter should not be entered with infections that recur frequently or have not fully healed. Existing infections should be identified and treated thoroughly through regular gynecological examinations, Pap smear tests, and, when necessary, vaginal discharge examinations. Neglecting these steps makes it easier for diseases to become chronic."

"Pay attention to nutrition and hygiene, get your HPV vaccine"

Numanoğlu stated, "It is important for women to take certain precautions to protect themselves from gynecological problems and their general health." He continued, "Pay attention to your diet; eat a balanced diet and avoid excess carbohydrates. Carbohydrate consumption disrupts the vaginal pH balance, increasing the risk of infection. Take probiotic supplements. This habit supports the vaginal and intestinal flora. Probiotics should be used regularly for at least three months to restore the flora. Choose the right underwear; choose cotton underwear. Change your underwear frequently and stay dry. Pay attention to hygiene; use only water instead of soap or chemical products when cleaning the genital area. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ. Be careful with the use of antibiotics; avoid unnecessary antibiotics. Antibiotics can destroy beneficial bacteria and lead to the proliferation of opportunistic microorganisms. Stay dry after exercise; be careful not to get wet after exercise. Keep chronic diseases under control; especially if you have diabetes, heart problems, or immune system problems, don't neglect your regular checkups. Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections; using a condom with your partner during sexual intercourse reduces the risk of infection by 100%." Remember that it will reduce the risk of infection by 70%. Be sure to get your HPV vaccine. Be careful during the treatment process; avoid sexual intercourse during the treatment period for vaginal infections. Some infections require partner treatment, but for fungal infections, if there are no symptoms, partner treatment is not necessary.

"Don't neglect the treatment of your foul-smelling discharge"

Numanoğlu concluded her statement by saying, "Physical discharge is normal in women. This discharge should be clear, odorless, and have the consistency of egg whites. However, discharge that is yellow-green, foul-smelling, itchy, or has the appearance of curdled milk is a sign of infection, and a gynecologist should be consulted. Vaginal infections can negatively impact daily life not only physically but also psychologically. Not delaying treatment for infections lingering from summer is the most important step in entering the winter months in a healthy way."