Is It Normal for Your Vagina to Sweat?

Medically Reviewed on 10/20/2022
Is It Normal for Your Vagina to Sweat?
Wearing breathable underwear and keeping your pubic hair trimmed can help reduce sweating around the vagina.

Yes, it is normal for your vagina to sweat, and it is not much you can do to avoid sweating completely. Like other areas, the skin in the vagina and around the groin contains sweat glands that cause sweating.

  • The labia majora of the vulva are abundant in sweat glands, which are comparable to sweat glands in the armpits.
  • These glands can cause a lot of perspiration, especially as the temperature rises. However, you need not worry about genital sweating; it is quite natural.
  • Sweating is how the body, particularly the vulva, regulates its temperature.

What causes excessive groin sweating?

It is normal to sweat between the legs, thighs, and groin. Sweating is caused by hot, humid conditions and physical exercise. Sweating may be excessive due to the large number of sweat glands in the groin.

If hot weather or physical effort is not the reason for excessive groin sweating, then it may be due to hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), which is a medical condition that is believed to affect three percent of the population.

Hyperhidrosis is classified into two types: 

  1. Generalized hyperhidrosis
    • Excessive sweating over your entire body is referred to as generalized hyperhidrosis. 
    • It is caused by a completely separate underlying disease or condition, such as:
  2. Primary localized hyperhidrosis
    • Primary focal hyperhidrosis is caused by the hyperactivity of sweat glands in that particular area.
    • It generally affects just one part of the body, such as the:
      • Underarms
      • Face
      • Head
      • Hands
      • Feet
      • Groin

Common causes of vaginal sweat

QUESTION

The vagina includes the labia, clitoris, and uterus. See Answer

What can you do to treat and prevent vaginal sweating?

Tips you must follow to reduce sweating around your vagina:

  • Wear breathable underwear: The significant step that fights vaginal sweating is allowing natural ventilation by using underwear that is light, and breathable, and wicks away the sweat.
    • Using 100 percent cotton underwear is more appropriate, as it can facilitate ventilation while wicking away the sweat and keeping things dry down below.
    • As physical exercise can increase sweating, you must change your clothes along with the underwear post-workout. 
    • Keeping the vagina damp and moist increases the risk of yeast infections.
  • Choose correctly fitting underwear: Using underwear that fits right is equally important; you can use an underwear size chart to ensure that you’re wearing the proper underwear.
    • If it is too tight or too loose, it cannot provide the necessary support, may not work as intended, and may even highlight the shape of the external genitals.
  • Wash your underwear clean: If the clothing near the vagina is damp, it can increase the risk of bacterial growth on the fabric.
    • You must wash them after use and always wear clean, dry underwear.
    • It is recommended to replace your underwear every 6 to 12 months, depending on how soiled they have become. If they get soiled sooner or if you have excessive sweating, replace them every three months to avoid bacterial buildup.
  • Trim pubic hair: Sweating in the vagina increases during summer and warm weather.
    • Excessive pubic hair can aggravate sweating and prevent sweat's evaporation.
    • This irritates and traps unpleasant smells.
    • Trimming pubic hair allows your skin to breathe, reduces moisture, and prevents irritation and smell.
  • Use powder:
    • You can dust powder around the vulva to keep it dry.
    • You should use cornstarch-based powder instead of talcum powder which increases the risk of ovarian cancer.
  • Do not use panty liners or pads for long:
    • You must avoid the use of panty liners or pads for extended periods.
    • These are often composed of nonbreathable material, which can trap heat and increase perspiration.
  • Maintain good hygiene:
    • You should also maintain appropriate feminine hygiene. 
    • Warm water, mild washing soap, and clean cotton underwear should be the foundation of your regimen.
    • The mild cleanser should only be used on the outside; never use soap to clean the insides of your vagina.

When to consult your doctor

  • Certain medical illnesses, such as diabetes, menopause, or anxiety disorders, might cause profuse sweating. 
  • If you start taking a new medicine and realize that you are sweating more, your drug might be at fault. Excessive sweating can also be caused by some drugs, such as beta blockers and antidepressants.
  • Although modifications in clothes and lifestyle should keep you comfortable, prescription drugs are available if your perspiration is excessive. 
  • Whatever the cause, there are several options for staying dry. 
  • Do not be ashamed if your perspiration is constant and irritating. Simply consult your primary care physician or dermatologist.
Medically Reviewed on 10/20/2022
References
Image Source: iStock image

5 Common But Embarrassing Symptoms You Should Definitely Talk to Your Doctor About: https://www.beaumont.org/health-wellness/blogs/5-embarrassing-symptoms-you-should-talk-to-your-doctor-about

Excessive Sweating In Vaginal Area During Sleep: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/excessive-sweating-in-vaginal-area-during-sleep/