Women are making a mistake in the gym that could cause agonising infection
Women are making a mistake in the gym that could leave them with an agonising infection, a doctor has warned.
Tight shorts, leggings and underwear, may be perfect for working up a sweat in a gym class, but they could also be the cause of an agonising infection.
That’s because post-workout activewear made from synthetic fabric can create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.
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And sitting around in your damp gym clothes for too long after a workout could be at risk of getting a condition called cystitis which is a painful UTI that affects 1 in 3 women.
Women’s health expert, Dr Catherine Hood warned: “Activewear, such as leggings, are tight against the crotch and allow little air flow, so bacteria can thrive there.
“Plus, the materials that activewear is usually made from aren’t breathable. Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and lycra actually trap moisture which offers the ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
“Cystitis occurs when bacteria enters your bladder through your urethra, the tube that carries urine out of your body. This often happens if bacteria from your rectum or vagina spread to the opening of your urethra."
Estimates suggest a third of females will have experienced cystitis by the time they reach the age of 24, however it’s more common during pregnancy, in women who are sexually active and after menopause.
Certain factors like intense workouts, dehydration, and poor hygiene can increase the risk of cystitis.
Women’s health expert Dr. Catherine Hood, advisor to Effercitrate shares simple tips to reduce this risk, such as opting for breathable fabrics, changing out of workout gear promptly, and maintaining good hygiene and self-care.
She added: “To help prevent your activewear from becoming a burden, avoid lingering in sweaty kit for too long and change promptly after exercise.
“Be sure to wash with water; avoid bubble baths, talcum powder and feminine wipes as these can cause irritation.”
There are several symptoms to look out for when it comes to cystitis.
As well as as a constant urge to pee, the main symptoms of cystitis are a painful, burning or stinging sensation when urinating, dark, cloudy or smelly urine, pain in the lower abdomen and generally feeling unwell.
Dr Catherine Hood said: “As well as burning or stinging when you pee, other symptoms of cystitis include needing to pee regularly, but passing only a little or no urine, cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine, pain in the lower tummy, incontinence, a high temperature and generally not feeling well."
If your cystitis symptoms continue for more than a couple of days after treatment, see your GP as cystitis can occasionally progress to a kidney infection, which will require treatment with antibiotics.
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