My crotch gets super sweaty when I exercise. Is there anything I can do?
My crotch gets super sweaty when I exercise. Is there anything I can do?
My crotch gets super sweaty when I exercise. Is there anything I can do?
My crotch gets super sweaty when I exercise. Is there anything I can do?
Bradley Smith, MD, is a sports medicine physician at Lankenau Medical Center of Main Line Health System.
Like every other part of your body, your groin can also be affected by excessive perspiration, especially during exercise. You should know that you are not alone. This condition, called hyperhidrosis, causes excessive sweating. It usually presents during exercise, in extreme heat, or in stressful situations and can often cause those who are affected by it to sweat through their clothing. It typically affects the hands, feet, underarms, and face, but it can affect other areas of the body, too, including the groin.
While this is natural and usually nothing to be concerned about, it can be embarrassing for those who exercise often and deal with it on a regular basis. Fortunately, by taking some preventative measures and choosing the appropriate workout gear, you should be able to lessen or avoid the problem.
One of the most effective ways to cut down on the amount of perspiration during your workout is paying attention to what you wear. Not only will this affect the amount of perspiration in your groin, but other areas of your body, as well. Thicker fabrics in sweatshirts and sweatpants will hold onto moisture, so choose materials like light cotton or linen that will wick away sweat and keep air circulating during your workout.
In addition, pay attention to the fit of your clothing. Workout clothing should fit well, but try and keep them loose fitting. Look for wide-legged pants and capris or athletic shorts, which are preferable to tight leggings. For your workout, opt for undergarments with an absorbent cotton crotch that can help to decrease the amount of perspiration.
Much like applying anti-perspirant to your underarms to avoid odor and perspiration, there are also products available that can be applied to other areas of the body. Check your local pharmacy or grocery store for spray deodorant, which can be applied to the groin or other affected areas to decrease sweating.
Finally, don’t forget to cool yourself down during and after your workout with a fan or water bottle. While this won’t target the groin specifically, cooling down your whole body can be helpful.
If you are still dealing with excessive perspiration after trying these tactics, consult with your doctor, who may be able to suggest other treatment options.
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