Preventing Vaginitis

Continued...

Breaking the Cycle

Irritation of the pubic area is a common complaint in bicyclists. Cindi Staiger, a winner of the women's division of Race Across America, an ultra-endurance cross-country bicycle race, has developed a number of techniques to deal with biker's crotch.

She suggests wearing bike shorts with polypropylene liners instead of leather chamois. Leather is difficult to keep clean and supple, and does not wick away moisture.

She also suggests standing up frequently to let air circulate. Dry cornstarch or unperfumed talcum powder may also help keep the area dry and non-chafing. Clipping, not shaving, the pubic hairs can also reduce irritation.

If you are riding several days in a row on a bike touring vacation or as part of your workout and notice chafing and cracked skin, treat it with an antibacterial solution such as non-stinging Betadine or Neosporin ointment.

Staiger advises changing shorts to reduce wetness and chafing if you are riding for more than a couple of hours. A comfortable, inflatable or gel-filled bike seat may also help reduce pressure and chafing.

Vaginitis or pubic chafing may be a problem that active women face frequently. Knowing the symptoms and simple self-treatment may help decrease the amount of time these uncomfortable problems affect you.

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About the authors: Carol L. Otis, M.D., is Chief Medical Advisor to the Sanex WTA and UCLA student health physician. Roger Goldingay is a former professional soccer player. They are married and the co-authors of The Athletic Woman's Survival Guide.

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Foreword: Billie Jean King

Comments by Barb Harris
Editor in Chief,
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