Tight shorts and leggings may be perfect for sweating in a spin class, but they could also be the cause of an agonizing infection, doctors warn.
This is because post-workout sportswear made from synthetic fabric is the perfect environment to harbor bacteria.
And sitting in damp gym clothes for too long after exercising could risk contracting a condition called cystitis.
Cystitis, which affects up to one in three women, is the most common type of urinary tract infection (UTI).
Pain, burning and stinging when urinating, as well as the need to go to the bathroom frequently and urgently, are telltale signs of infection.
Sweaty sports clothing made of synthetic fabrics is the perfect environment to harbor bacteria, doctors warn. stock image
If you sit in your damp gym clothes for too long after exercising, you could be at risk of contracting cystitis. stock image
Cystitis occurs when bacteria enter the bladder through the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.
This can happen if bacteria that are naturally found in the rectum or vagina spread to the opening of the urethra.
Sportswear is often made from synthetic fabrics that are not breathable, so when a person sweats, moisture is trapped, providing the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
Because the leggings are also tight in the crotch, the urethra and surrounding area may come into contact with friction during exercise.
This, along with the sweaty, humid environment below and possible dehydration, increases the risk of bacteria spreading to the urethra and causing a bladder infection.
“Sportswear, like leggings, hugs the crotch and leaves little airflow, so bacteria can thrive there,” explains Dr. Catherine Hood, women’s health expert and consultant for Effercitrate tabletsa brand of cystitis medication.
And he added: ‘The materials that sportswear is usually made of are not breathable. Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and lycra trap moisture, providing the ideal breeding ground for bacteria.’
However, this is only a problem if you stay in damp, sweaty gym clothes for too long.
That’s why Dr. Hood urged women to switch immediately after exercise to reduce the chances of this happening.
“To help prevent your sports clothing from becoming a burden, avoid staying in sweaty clothing for too long and change quickly after exercise,” Dr. Hood emphasized.
She also urged women to wash their genitals with water after exercising, but added to avoid bubble baths, talcum powder and feminine wipes as they can cause irritation.
Estimates suggest that a third of women will experience cystitis by the time they turn 24; However, it is more common during pregnancy, in sexually active women, and after menopause.
There are several symptoms to pay attention to when it comes to cystitis.
‘In addition to burning or stinging when urinating, other symptoms of cystitis include the need to urinate regularly, but urinate little or not at all, cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine, pain in the lower abdomen, incontinence, high temperature. and I generally don’t feel well,” Dr. Hood said.
Mild cases usually improve on their own within a few days.
However, some people experience episodes of cystitis frequently and may need regular or long-term treatment.
There is also a chance that cystitis can lead to a more serious kidney infection in some cases, so it is important to seek medical attention if your symptoms do not improve.
Estimates suggest that a third of women will have experienced cystitis by the time they turn 24; However, it is more common during pregnancy, in sexually active women, and after menopause.
Mild cases can be treated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding sexual relations, and taking paracetamol. But a GP can prescribe a three-day course of antibiotics if it persists.
In addition to quickly changing out of your gym clothes, wearing breathable cotton underwear can also help, explains Dr. Hood.
She adds that “wiping from front to back” after urinating will help prevent the spread of bacteria to the urinary tract and vagina, as will washing the genital area before and after sex and emptying the bladder.
‘Try emptying your bladder after sex. Also, lie down on the toilet when you urinate and wait for the last few drops to pass out,” Dr. Hood recommended.
“It is best to avoid having sex while you have cystitis, as sex can cause friction and irritation to the urethra, which is sensitive during an infection,” he added.
Staying hydrated is also vital to prevent the onset of cystitis.
“Try to drink two liters of water every day, including a large glass of water before bed and when you wake up, and also after sex,” advises Dr. Hood.
‘Drinking water will strengthen the urine stream and reduce the chances of bacteria managing to adhere to the wall of the bladder and urinary tract. Plus, drinking a lot will ensure you urinate more, which helps eliminate bacteria.
