Gynaecological infections of a bacterial or mycotic origin (fungi or yeast, e.g. Candidiasis) generally appear with symptoms such as itching, burning and pain, even quite intense, and they have a strong impact on the psychological-emotional sphere and on the woman’s social life. These infections are often recurrent, they reappear in more than 50% of cases and are becoming more and more widespread; it is calculated that 50-75% of women have had at least one episode of vaginal thrush during their lifetime. The health of the genital mucosa is preserved by two fundamental and interdependent conditions which form the main defence against internal and external aggression: the equilibrium of the vaginal ecosystem and the acid pH (ideal between 3.8 and 4). When the vaginal ecosystem is altered, and the pH undergoes variations, the conditions are produced for the onset of a gynaecological infection. This may happen due to non modifiable hormonal factors, or as a consequence of antibiotic therapies that provoke an alteration of the vaginal microflora, or, again, in a situation of reduced immune defences or stress.
Clothing
According to recent studies, 60% of women suffer from disorders that could be avoided by wearing the correct clothing. In fact, certain widespread and apparently harmless habits may alter the microflora and the pH of the genital area. Among the most common, personal hygiene using unsuitable detergents and the prolonged use of panty liners and garments that limit ventilation of the area, increasing humidity and favouring the development of pathogenic microorganisms (e.g. underwear made of elasticised microfiber, pantyhose, tight-fitting trousers, etc.). To complete the picture, in recent years there has been a great increase in the sale of odour-free underwear treated with chemical substances with gradual release (silver ions, Triclosan, perfumes, etc.). These substances are particularly harmful because, once released from the garments, they are absorbed by the mucosa, altering the vaginal ecosystem and depriving this area of its natural defences.