Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin Advises Women Not to Wear Panties to Prevent Fungal Infections
Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin claimed that not wearing underwear can help prevent fungal infections amidst hot weather condition.
On Monday (April 1, 2024), the former Health Secretary made these remarks during a press conference, where the discussion revolved around the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration’s (PAGASA) forecast of continued hot weather.
Garin explained the women are prone to fungal infections during humid weather conditions. She said that the normal flora in the intimate area, pubic area, and the perennial area of women cause the disease.
The politician also corrected the misconception that fungal infections are sexually transmitted diseases. She said that fungi starts to multiply during hot and humid weather conditions since it becomes a perfect petri dish for them. It causes itching, which becomes severe the more you scratch it.
“Pag tag-init ang mga babae ay prone din sa fungal infection, hindi yan sexually transmitted disease, yan ay dala ng yung normal flora sa intimate area, sa pubic area, sa perennial area ng babae, kapag medyo basa, napapawisan at mainit yung panahon yan ay perfect petridish para dumami yung fungi yung candida albicans na nasa balat ay dadami siya kaya siya nagiging makati. So the more you scratch the more it will itch,” Garin explained.
The former DOH official said that there are medications available, but ladies have to keep that area dry. She also advised women not to wear underwear but instead wear pajamas or shorts at home.
“May gamot naman yan but you have to keep that area dry kaya nga minsan lalo na sa tag-init, wala lang malisya ‘no, pero kung nasa bahay ka lang naman or matutulog it’s quite advisable na walang underwear pero naka-pajama ka naman or naka-shorts,” the lady solon said.
Garin added that proper ventilation is effective in preventing the fungal infection from worsening or spreading. She also advised the public to bring water and stay hydrated.
