Sweating Down There: Causes and Solutions

The Genital Area – Our Most Sensitive Zone. 

It's completely normal to sweat in this area of the body, as naturally there are plenty of sweat glands down there too. Around the genitals, they carry out important jobs like cooling the body, protecting the skin, and helping the immune system. However, increased perspiration in this intimate area can be particularly bothersome for many. The warm, moist environment can make it easier for bacteria to thrive, which along with sweat, can lead to unpleasant odours. As a result, most people affected feel quite restricted in their daily lives. Often, it's so embarrassing they feel ashamed and don't even talk about the problem with their partner or doctor.

Problems Caused by Heavy Sweating in the Genital Area

There are various triggers for heavy sweating in the genital area, and the reasons for increased perspiration are diverse. These can include hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or the menopause), intense heat, increased exertion, or even a form of hyperhidrosis. Put a stop to sweating between your legs and avoid unpleasant odours and infections in the delicate genital area. The following 3 problems can be particularly common with heavy sweating down below:

• Eczema
  Whether it's a woman's intimate region or a man's groin area, the constant dampness caused by sweating can quickly lead to eczema. This inflammation is usually triggered by a yeast infection or a bacterial infection, which often requires medication to treat. Signs of this so-called sweat eczema include itching, red patches on the skin, blisters, or greasy flakes.
  
  
• It Affects Your Mental Well-being
  Itching, noticeable sweat patches, or bothersome body odour are usually associated with heavy sweating in the genital area. People cope with it in different ways, but everyone quickly suffers from the uncomfortable situation. As a result, many withdraw and avoid public exercise or physical intimacy. This has a negative impact on their mental well-being and relationships, and their personal distress increases.
  
  
• High Risk of Bacterial Infections
  The skin in the genital area is particularly sensitive, and increased sweating quickly creates a warm, moist environment. This kind of environment damages the skin's barrier, allowing bacteria and fungi to flourish and increasing the risk of a bacterial infection.

To reduce distress and avoid health risks, it's important to reduce sweating between the legs.

6 Tips for Dealing with Sweating in the Genital Area

Sweating in the genital area is not uncommon, and those affected shouldn't suffer in silence but tackle the problem effectively. We've put together a few tips to help you combat sweating in this sensitive area:

Remove Pubic Hair

While shaving doesn't reduce the amount you sweat, odourless sweat can't break down as quickly on smooth, hair-free skin, which reduces unpleasant smells. So, by having a hair-free genital area, you can effectively minimise odour. To protect the skin and avoid irritation when shaving, always shave in the direction of hair growth. If you're not keen on going completely bare, simply trimming your pubic hair short with small scissors is often enough.

Antiperspirant

Using an antiperspirant narrows the sweat pores, effectively regulates excessive sweating, and at the same time prevents bothersome odour. Control sweat odour and sweating in your genital area with an antiperspirant. When applying it, make sure to avoid the mucous membranes generously. But whether you go for a classic spray antiperspirant or prefer to treat your sensitive area with a roll-on or wipes with added soothing aloe vera and allantoin, you're sure to find the right product for you and see positive results within 2-3 days.

The Right Underwear

Choosing the right undies has a big impact on sweat production in the genital area. Although synthetic fibres or satin might look particularly nice, they don't wick moisture away well, which leads to unpleasant odours more quickly. Cotton underwear is a better choice for those affected. This material ensures that sweat is absorbed and transported away from the skin. This can reduce odour in the genital area. The same applies to your outer clothing – ideally, it should be made of breathable materials and have a loose, airy fit.

Sitting Properly

Take a seat – but do it right! If you like to sit with your legs crossed often, it might be comfy and look good, but this sitting position actually encourages sweat production in the genital area. Crossed legs restrict the breathability of your clothes, and sweat in the genital area can't evaporate properly. Your intimate area is constricted and doesn't get any "air," which results in a build-up of heat. The body reacts to this by producing more sweat. Give your genital area a bit more room and try to sit with your legs slightly apart more often. And if the situation allows: sitting cross-legged is ideal.

Hygiene

Generally speaking, it's perfectly sufficient to clean the genital area once a day with lukewarm water and a gentle wash lotion. If you sweat heavily in the genital area, washing more frequently won't help. Showering more often and using lots of wash lotions is unfortunately counterproductive and only throws the natural balance of the intimate flora off. Changing your underwear regularly, perhaps even more often than necessary, is a more effective and gentler way to maintain a good feeling in the genital area. Your knickers or briefs should then be washed in the machine at at least 60 degrees Celsius to ensure germs and bacteria don't stand a chance.

Sage Tea

Enjoying a nice cuppa is always a good shout. How about some sage tea? But hold on! It doesn't just work internally; it can also be used externally. Simply dab the affected areas in the genital region with the teabag. This old home remedy is great for fighting odour-causing bacteria and also has antibacterial properties, which can help prevent various infections.

First published: 12/05/2011

Updated: 27/05/2025