Swimming Pools and Your Gynecological Health: Separating Fact from Fiction

As the weather heats up, New Yorkers start looking for reprieve. Going for a swim can turn a sweltering day into an enjoyable one. But if you don’t take the proper precautions afterward, that temporary break from the heat could turn into a headache.

The good news is that swimming pools are generally safe for your gynecological health. What happens after you get out of the pool makes the difference in preventing issues. 

Our all-female team wants to help you avoid problems like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and urinary tract infections (UTIs). With that in mind, we built this guide. And if problems do crop up post-swim, you can visit us at any of our Elite Gynecology offices in Manhattan, Forest Hills, or Rego Park, New York. 

Where swimming poses a risk

Swimming pools get treated with chemicals like chlorine. These should keep the potential for problems like bacteria and fungus at bay. As long as you know the pool is properly maintained, it’s usually safe to swim, even when you’re on your period. 

There are some instances when swimming can increase your risk for gynecological issues, though. It all comes down to what you do after you get out of the pool. 

Bacterial vaginosis

You won’t get the bacteria that cause BV from a swimming pool. But the chemicals used to treat the pool could upset the natural bacterial balance in your vagina, increasing your risk for this infection. 

To lower your odds here, rinse off after the pool, taking special care to rinse your vaginal area. 

Yeast infections

Again, you won’t get a yeast infection from swimming pool water. But if you hang out in a wet swimsuit afterward, you create a perfect environment for fungus to thrive: damp and dark. Changing into dry clothes after you get out of the pool lowers your risk of a yeast infection. 

UTIs

Urinary tract infections develop when bad bacteria travel up your urethra. To lower your risk, avoid sitting in a wet swimsuit for long periods, as moisture trapped against your urethra can encourage bacterial growth. Rinse off after you get out to further reduce your risk. 

What to do if you have a problem after swimming

In most cases, if you rinse off and change into dry clothes after the pool, you should be able to avoid gynecological issues. 

If you notice symptoms a few days after a swim — like unusual discharge, itching, or burning when you pee — it could be an infection. We’re here to help. 

At Elite Gynecology, our team can figure out what’s affecting you and treat it. Most of the problems that crop up after swimming can be cured with a round of antibiotics or antifungals. For the care you need, call Elite Gynecology or book an appointment online today.