Summer brings more than just sunshine and rainbows. It also brings an increase in unpleasant body odor and sweat. While excessive underarm sweat can be embarrassing, crotch sweat, also known as swamp crotch, is even worse. If you’ve ever left a sweaty undercarriage print on your seat after a gym session, you’re not alone.
According to Dr. Karyn Eilber, a urogynecologist in Los Angeles, crotch sweat happens for the same reason as underarm sweat – we have glands in those areas that produce sweat when it gets hot. However, groin sweat can lead to bigger problems, including fungal and bacterial infections, skin rashes, irritation, chafing, and itchiness.
To prevent swamp crotch this summer, here are five recommendations from health care professionals:
1. Choose breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics, such as cotton and linen, which allow air circulation and let the skin breathe. Avoid synthetic materials like nylon and polyester that trap heat and moisture.
2. Change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible, especially tight fabrics that don’t breathe well. Leaving on damp clothes for a prolonged period can create a perfect environment for infections to flourish.
3. Use an anti-fungal powder, like Gold Bond medicated powder, to keep the groin area dry and relieve itching or irritation. Apply the powder after showering and fully cover the problem area.
4. Consider using an antiperspirant designed for the genital region. These products contain aluminum salts that temporarily block perspiration. Look for gentle options without irritating ingredients.
5. If the above suggestions don’t work, consult a doctor. They can check if there’s an underlying condition causing excessive sweating and prescribe prescription medications or antiperspirants with stronger sweat-fighting power.
By following these recommendations, you can hopefully keep swamp crotch and excessive sweating at bay this summer.