Author name: aventino

by Dr. Nico Naumann, gynecologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome A medical vocation serving women across borders As a physician specializing in fertility issues, throughout my career I have determined to lend my expertise to women and children in developing countries. My work with various NGOs has taken me to Ethiopia and Sierra Leone as an Ob/Gyn and assisting patients in Rome in providing necessary gynecological care. I have treated cases from HIV in pregnant women to tuberculosis leading to infertility to female genital mutilation victims both in Italy and abroad. Destination Lebanon: a natural calling It therefore came as no surprise when a colleague asked me to join the Italian NGO, Second Generation Aid (SGA) operating in Lebanon, to assist their efforts in this complex yet compelling country situated right in the heart of the turbulent Levant. Ongoing crisis, ongoing need Given the seemingly endless political crises in Lebanon, and the unrelenting onslaught from neighbouring hostilities, Lebanon’s populace is in dire need of medical assistance, specialized physicians, and medicines. Our mission would be to examine and consult with patients and aid in the distribution of needed medicines throughout a network of monasteries and schools. I was looking forward to going to this intriguing part of the world and doing what I could do to assist the aid efforts there. On the road: a mission fueled by logistics and commitment So it was last April that I departed Rome with a team of physicians, including an ophthalmologist, a dermatologist, a pharmacist and a physical therapist for Second Generation Aid headed for Beirut. We were met by our mini‑bus driver, George, who also doubled as guide and bodyguard throughout our mission. Our first stop would be at the Sanctuary of Saint Charbel, the patron Saint of Lebanon. Two days later we went up north to a school run by Catholic nuns and so on, changing location every two or three days, visiting 40‑60 patients from the community each time. SGA saw to it that medicines were shipped ahead of our mission as well as essential instruments such as a portable ultrasound. This was made possible solely due to the coordination of the Italian branch of UNIFIL, the UN contingent operating in the buffer zone between Israel and Lebanon. A nation divided, a people in need It’s common knowledge that Lebanon is a rich melting pot of peoples from all walks of life; a multitude of religions, sects, and classes all intermingling in its fair land. Sadly, its extraordinary diversity is overshadowed by those in positions of power, or seeking power, who aim to divide this kaleidoscope into warring factions, all for political gamesmanship. For those of us on the ground, everyone is a person worthy of dignity and care. United beyond faiths: the power of local solidarity We relied on Lebanon’s Christian community – both the Maronite and Catholic churches – to bring in the patients we would be seeing. They canvassed the countryside, bringing us patients from every denomination: Sciite, Sunni, Orthodox, Protestant, Druse and Alawite. It was a testament to the rich mosaic of the Lebanese people – and to our common humanity – how wars, turbulence and strife affects everyone alike, regardless of denomination. Medicine in the field: when symptoms reflect life under threat As a gynaecologist, I saw patients suffering from a variety of issues or disease, from digestive irregularities and colitis, to menstrual cycle issues and infertility, to skin diseases and circulatory system pathologies, to even young people with hypertension. But what they had in common were the physical effects of living under the constant menace of bombardments and death. Listening to heal: treating more than the body An additional psychological strain was the concern for their children. Our team was trained to listen attentively and show them that they had not been abandoned. A lesson from Lebanon: peaceful coexistence is possible But what struck me most about my experience criss‑crossing Lebanon and witnessing this tapestry of ethnicities and lived experiences coming together (and that would include more recent Palestinian and Syrian refugees welcomed as well), was a sense among the people of their amazing capacity for peaceful coexistence. Faith, hospitality, and the practice of coexistence Indeed on several occasions I met Muslims busily getting integrated into a dominant Christian community – and vice versa. Many of the clergy I met proudly affirmed their resolve to keep their doors open to the most needy. A number of them would visit a Syrian refugee camp on a weekly basis to offer material and emotional support. A beacon on the border: Sister Beatrice’s school A special mention goes to that school in the north on the Syrian border. The school was founded and run by Catholic nuns under the towering figure of Sister Beatrice from Cyprus. She had started it in the 1980s by first renting out some rooms for classes, ultimately building a school which today teaches around 500 children, from Kindergartners to 15‑year‑olds. All students are taught in Arabic and learn English and French as well. In addition, the school houses 50 special needs children, where they also learn to cook and garden and become autonomous. Leaving with gratitude, returning with purpose In the end, I felt that our NGO efforts had been well‑received, and I returned to Rome knowing that we had alleviated some of the suffering, even for the short time we were there. But for each person assisted, I also knew there was another who required surgery in a modern hospital setting that was simply not available to them. A commitment renewed by the hope of parents I intend to continue volunteering with Second Generation Aid, and our intention is to return two or three times a year, resources permitting. Getting the call to be of some assistance in Lebanon was quite an honour, but it was those nervous parents, or parents‑to‑be, who, despite all the challenges were looking forward to bringing up children in this world in the hopes of a

 By Dr. Giuseppe Martinelli, gynecologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome When the priest from the Vincentian Order married Giulia and me, we promised to devote part of our time and medical profession to the works run by their Order. The opportunity came a few months after I left the hospital following the unilateral termination of my contract. An unexpected invitation My wife’s friend from Apulia, sister Vincenziana, the head of Caritas in Albania, who often spent her summers cooling off in the Lucanian hills, immediately seized the opportunity when she heard of my new availability. She invited me to join her in Albania, in the province of Elbasan, where she directed a foster home in Mollas and a youth center in Cerrik. Many women there had no access to preventive care or gynecological assistance — some hadn’t been examined in years. A young woman in search of help In that context, I was asked to examine a young woman who helped the sisters manage the foster home, which still today hosts about a dozen abandoned children. She deeply longed for a pregnancy but had already suffered at least two late miscarriages. The gynecological exam seemed normal, but thanks to an ultrasound — done with a machine brought from Italy and restored through the efforts of the Rotary Club of the Apulia and Basilicata District — the cause emerged: a uterine septum dividing the cavity, preventing a full-term pregnancy. A possible solution The only option was to surgically remove the septum through a hysteroscopic metroplasty, under general anesthesia and with a minimally invasive technique. It required a well-equipped clinic, with an operating room, proper instruments, and trained staff — not easy to find in Albania, nor financially accessible. The clinic, the departure, the operation Thanks to the sisters’ providence — and the patient’s determination — a private clinic agreed to cover the costs, on the condition that I would perform the procedure. We scheduled the best time, and I left for Albania. I managed the preoperative preparation, coordinated the operating room staff, and ensured all equipment was functioning. The operation went smoothly, and the patient was discharged that same afternoon, after just a few hours of observation. Follow-up and waiting Follow-up care was handled remotely, with the nuns acting as intermediaries. I advised waiting before attempting a new pregnancy. After a few months, her menstrual cycle normalized, and symptoms improved from the very first cycle. Regular gynecological and ultrasound checkups every three months confirmed she could finally conceive. A new life The wait wasn’t long. There was fear that the pregnancy might end like the previous ones, but with the right care, attention — and the will of the Lord — she reached the seventh month. In the meantime, she had moved to Greece with her husband. She was hospitalized and gave birth to a baby girl — premature, but alive and full of life — who still brings joy to their home. On September 2, 2023, Sister Camilla wrote to me: “Hi Beppe, Bona sent me this message, I’m so happy. Thank you for your professionalism.” And the young woman’s message said: “Good morning Mater Camilla! Yesterday I gave birth to a baby girl. I feel great. Thank you so much! Thanks to you, today I am a MOTHER!” Coincidence… or love for one’s work? Coincidences or just chance? Perhaps. But also a bit of determination and a great deal of love for one’s work — the most genuine and rewarding form of compensation for time devoted to others. A mission that continues The collaboration with the foster home goes on. Today, three of us regularly travel to Albania: my wife Giulia, an endocrinologist and internist; our friend Giuseppe, a pediatrician everyone calls Pino; and myself, a gynecologist. Every time we go, it’s a celebration! A simple and concrete way to place our profession at the service of those who need it most.

By Dr. Valeria Gianfreda, Colonproctology and pelvic floor surgeon – Aventino Medical Group, Rome When holidays upset your gut New schedules, unfamiliar beds, hot weather, less privacy… and your gut rebels. Many people experience slower intestinal transit while on holiday, with bloating, heaviness and difficulty passing stool. These are common complaints, but often underestimated. Even those who are regular at home may suddenly feel “blocked” after just a few days of travel. What really changes when you travel? Several factors contribute:● Hotel diets, often high in protein and low in fiber● Reduced physical activity● Disruption of sleep-wake rhythms● Dehydration, especially in summer● And even the embarrassment of using unfamiliar bathroomsAll these factors slow down peristalsis — the natural intestinal movements that support evacuation. The taboo to overcome: how we go to the toilet Talking about the bowel is still taboo — let alone how we actually go. Yet posture, timing and stool shape are key signs of our well-being. Overcoming embarrassment and learning to listen to these signals can make a real difference. Posture, timing and habits: how to go properly The way we evacuate matters. The classic 90° sitting posture on the toilet isn’t the most physiological. In a squatting position, the angle between rectum and anus straightens, making stool passage easier.A small stool under the feet that lifts the knees helps recreate this condition, reducing effort and preventing constipation and hemorrhoids.Another crucial aspect is timing: don’t ignore the urge, but don’t linger too long either — especially reading or on the phone. Evacuation is a reflex and coordinated act that must be respected at the right moment. Don’t ignore the signs: look into the toilet Observing your stool is a simple but often neglected habit. The Bristol Stool Chart, used in medicine, classifies stool by shape and consistency:● Type 1–2: hard pellets and dry segments → sign of constipation● Type 3–4: smooth, sausage-like shapes → regular transit● Type 5–6: soft or mushy fragments → accelerated transit● Type 7: watery → diarrhea or infectionOccasional changes can be normal. But if changes persist or are accompanied by pain, blood, or weight loss, a specialist evaluation is needed. How to help your gut travel with you To avoid getting “blocked” while on holiday, follow some simple but evidence-based tips:● Drink 1.5–2 liters of water daily, more if it’s hot or you’re exercising● Get 25–30 grams of fiber a day, combining soluble fibers (oats, fruit, legumes) and insoluble ones (leafy greens, bran, whole grains)● Move every day: even a 20–30 minute walk stimulates bowel movements● Respect your natural rhythms — take time in the morning for breakfast… and for the toilet, without rush or distractions If regularity doesn’t return on its own, the following may help:● Probiotics with specific strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium lactis or Saccharomyces boulardii, which help modulate gut flora and reduce bloating● Fiber supplements like psyllium or inulin that increase stool bulk — introduced gradually and with proper hydration● Mild mechanical-lubricant laxatives, like mineral oil. Prolonged use of osmotic laxatives is discouraged, as they may impair natural defecation These strategies help maintain regularity even away from home, avoiding discomfort during holidays. When to seek specialist evaluation If constipation lasts more than three weeks, recurs periodically or affects your quality of life, it’s time to see a specialist. Guidelines from the European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP), the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO) recommend clinical evaluation in case of persistent or associated symptoms. Signs and symptoms to watch for:● Hemorrhoidal prolapse and/or associated internal or external rectal prolapse● Obstructed defecation syndrome: sensation of incomplete and fragmented evacuation● Colicky abdominal pain in flare-ups Possible diagnostic exams:In addition to a colon-proctology consultation: transanal ultrasound, anorectal manometry, colonoscopy, and dynamic defecography X-ray. Accurate assessment helps rule out pathologies and tailor therapy to improve bowel function long-term. Warning signs – according to ESCP and NICE guidelines A specialist consultation is advised if one or more of the following appear:● Persistent constipation lasting over 3 weeks● Sensation of incomplete evacuation or rectal blockage● Recurrent anal bleeding or blood mixed with stool● Unintentional weight loss● Recurring abdominal pain● Family history of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease● Alternating constipation and diarrhea Your gut doesn’t go on holiday: listen to it Taking care of your gut means improving your quality of life. Even on holiday, you can respect your rhythm, adopt small precautions — and why not — learn more about your body. Talking about stool should not be taboo: it’s a sign of health awareness. Colorectal and Pelvic Surgery – Aventino Medical Group

By Dr. Patrice Gestraud, Orthopedic Specialist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome When summer puts feet and joints to the test Every summer, I see many patients returning from vacation with pain in the ankles, feet, knees, or hands.Wearing inadequate shoes, lifting heavy luggage, or engaging in unfamiliar sports may seem harmless, but often lead to inflammation, joint overload, or even injuries.One of the most common conditions is tendinitis, or even rupture of the Achilles tendon—especially in patients who skip warm-up or stretching before playing sports like tennis.These issues are common and often underestimated, but if left untreated, they can affect daily wellbeing for weeks or months. Light shoes… but not for your joints Flip-flops, flat sandals, or unsupported shoes may seem ideal in summer, but they force the foot to work improperly, without stability or shock absorption.This can cause plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, posterior tibial tendonitis, or Achilles tendinitis. Posture can also be affected, leading to back and knee pain.In clinical practice, I always recommend alternating open and closed shoes, and choosing contoured soles or ergonomic insoles if you plan to walk for long periods. When sudden movement leads to injury Mountain hikes, city walks, or beach sports are great for health—but require preparation.This means doing muscle-strengthening exercises starting 15 days before the holidays.Every year I treat patients with: In these cases, a clinical evaluation and onsite ultrasound allow us to quickly assess the issue and intervene promptly. Conservative Treatments and Minimally Invasive Surgery Whenever possible, conditions are treated conservatively—with injections, braces, rehabilitation physiotherapy, and custom orthotics.When pain persists or structural damage is present, surgery is often the definitive solution.Common conditions treated with minimally invasive surgery include: Integrated Diagnostic and Therapeutic Pathway At Aventino Medical Group, musculoskeletal ultrasounds and ultrasound-guided injections can be performed promptly.For second-level tests like X-rays, CT, or MRI, we refer patients to trusted external facilities.The same applies to physiotherapy: patients are referred to qualified centers that ensure continuity and quality of care.The goal is to offer an integrated, effective, and personalized approach—reducing waiting times and guiding the patient at every stage of the therapeutic journey. Prevention First, Targeted Treatment Later If pain persists for more than 2–3 days, worsens with movement, or limits daily activities, it should not be ignored.With early diagnosis and a few precautions, complications can be avoided and recovery accelerated.👉 If you’re experiencing joint or muscle discomfort after the holidays or want a specialist’s opinion, book a visit—we’ll find the best solution together.

By Dr. Maria Lia Scribano, Gastroenterologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome When Eating Out Becomes a Challenge If you live with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, you know how difficult it can be to manage everyday situations. Even during remission, a restaurant meal, a weekend getaway, or a trip can become a source of anxiety.Fear of a flare-up, not knowing what’s in your food, or having to explain your needs can be discouraging. The good news is that, with a little planning, you can enjoy these moments with more peace of mind. What to Eat (and What to Avoid) if You Have IBD There is no “one-size-fits-all” diet, but unless you have specific intolerances or allergies, the Mediterranean diet is generally a good ally for people with IBD.You can enjoy:– fresh vegetables and fruits– complex carbohydrates such as pasta, rice, bread, and potatoes– extra virgin olive oil, nuts (e.g., walnuts and almonds)– lean proteins like white meats, fish, low-fat dairy, and legumes (if tolerated) It’s best to limit or avoid:– processed and ultra-processed foods– artificial sweeteners and added sugars– saturated fats However, individual food intolerances are quite common in people with IBD, especially during flare-ups. Some problematic foods may include:– milk and dairy products– fried foods– spices– insoluble fibers (found in some vegetables, fruits with skins, whole legumes, nuts, and whole grains) Remember: everyone is different. Some foods, if not tolerated, can be reintroduced gradually during periods of wellness. In cases like symptomatic intestinal strictures or other complications, it’s essential to follow a personalized dietary plan. The best approach is individualized, based on close observation and specialist guidance. Practical Tips for Eating Out Without Stress – Choose restaurants with clear menus and freshly prepared dishes– Don’t hesitate to ask about ingredients—kindness helps!– Prefer simple, well-cooked dishes– Avoid overly elaborate meals– Drink plenty of water and eat slowly What If Something Goes Wrong? When to Call the Doctor If you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, blood in the stool, urgency, or fever, it’s important to act promptly.If you’re traveling, it’s helpful to have:– a letter from your gastroenterologist (preferably in English) detailing your diagnosis and treatment– a supply of your medications, ideally in your carry-on (some drugs may not be available everywhere)– the international names of active ingredients, in case you need to find local equivalents Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Traveling with IBD How can I find an IBD specialist abroad? Contact the Italian embassy or consulate of your destination country—they can often refer you to local specialists. University hospitals or patient associations like EFCCA in Europe or the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation in the U.S. can also help. Can I bring my medication on a plane? Yes, but carry a medical prescription in English and keep medications in your hand luggage, especially those sensitive to temperature. Always check customs regulations for your destination. What if I forget or run out of medication? Go to a hospital pharmacy or see a local doctor, bringing your medical records and a list of the active ingredients you take. Is it useful to have travel insurance? Absolutely—especially for travel outside the EU. Choose a policy that covers chronic conditions and includes medical repatriation if needed. In Summary Living with IBD doesn’t mean giving up the pleasure of travel or eating out. With awareness and a few precautions, you can enjoy these experiences safely and confidently.

By Dr. Alberto Caggiati, Vascular Surgeon – Aventino Medical Group, Rome Why Legs Swell During Travel Swelling, tingling, a feeling of heaviness: after a long flight, train ride, or car journey, many people notice their ankles are swollen, sometimes marked by sock lines.The reason is simple: sitting for a long time slows venous return—the flow of blood from the legs back to the heart. Gravity makes this worse, especially when wearing tight clothing or sitting with crossed legs for extended periods. Young or Not So Young: Who’s at Risk? You don’t need to have a diagnosis of venous insufficiency to feel heaviness or swelling in your legs after traveling. Even young, healthy individuals may experience symptoms, especially after long-haul flights.People with additional risk factors—such as a family history of varicose veins, use of oral contraceptives, smoking, or blood clotting disorders—should be particularly careful. In some cases, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious but preventable condition, may develop. Helpful Tips to Prevent Discomfort During a long journey, a few simple precautions can help: The most effective stockings are graduated compression class I or II, providing stronger pressure at the ankle and gradually less toward the thigh. They should be worn before departure and only removed after arrival. Choosing the correct size and model with medical advice is essential—avoid self-prescribing. When to See a Specialist If your legs often swell or ache, even after short trips, it’s advisable to undergo a specialist evaluation. A venous Doppler ultrasound can rule out more serious conditions and help define a personalized prevention and treatment plan.Travel should never compromise leg health: with just a few simple measures, you can reach your destination light and leave again feeling great. Not Just Travel Swelling: Possible Diagnoses Leg swelling may have various vascular causes, not all related to travel. A proper evaluation can distinguish between common issues and potentially serious conditions: A specialist visit and a venous Doppler ultrasound are essential for correctly identifying the cause of swelling and initiating the right treatment. Listen to Your Body, Trust Those Who Understand It Persistent or recurrent swelling should never be ignored. If you notice changes in your circulation or unusual symptoms, book a consultation: prevention is the easiest way to protect your health.Vascular Surgery – Aventino Medical Group

 By Dr. Alessandro Capozzoli, Urologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Summer is a season of relaxation and fun, but it can also pose challenges for urinary health. In this article, we explore helpful tips and precautions to protect your urinary health during the warmer months. Common Urological Issues in Summer Tips for Urinary Health in Summer Precautions for Urological Problems Urinary health matters year-round, but especially during summer. By following these tips and precautions, you can enjoy a healthy and worry-free summer. Don’t hesitate to consult a urologist if needed. Urology – Aventino Medical Group

By Dr. Gianluigi Bergamaschi Marsella, Plastic Surgeon at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Skin quality affects surgical outcomes The decision to undergo plastic or cosmetic surgery is often accompanied by a careful evaluation of expectations, recovery time, and desired results. However, one key factor is frequently overlooked: the condition of the skin before surgery. “Sun-damaged skin responds poorly to surgery,” explains Dr. Gianluigi Bergamaschi Marsella. Excessive sun exposure can impair skin elasticity, reduce blood flow, and slow the healing process. Photoaging—premature aging caused by UV rays—alters the structure of collagen and elastin, making the skin less responsive and more prone to postoperative complications. For this reason, properly preparing the skin is essential to achieve more natural and lasting aesthetic results. What happens to sun-damaged skin? Photo-damaged skin shows microscopic and clinical changes that directly affect how it responds to surgery. The most common signs include: All these factors compromise wound healing, increase the risk of hematomas or seromas, and may trigger abnormal reactions to sutures or tissue tension. Clinical studies published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery confirm that well-hydrated, toned, UV-free skin supports faster healing with fewer complications. What preoperative skin treatments are recommended? Skin preparation should begin at least 6–8 weeks before the procedure, following a personalized protocol. Here are some useful guidelines: For patients with dull, dehydrated, or pigment-prone skin, a joint consultation with a plastic surgeon and a dermatologist can help develop a progressive treatment plan. In this context, customized peels play a key role. Once tried, many patients begin taking better care of their skin more consistently. The visible improvement—healthier, firmer, and more radiant skin—often leads to compliments from others and the desire not to neglect such an important organ again. Just a few in-office treatments, guided by a trusted surgeon, can easily become part of a satisfying skincare routine. Frequently Asked Questions: Is it really necessary to prepare the skin? Yes. Even when the procedure targets a “hidden” area (such as the abdomen or thighs), skin health affects scarring, swelling, and local reactivity. Preparing the skin: Moreover, patients with healthy, well-nourished skin experience fewer complications (infections, delayed healing, fibrosis). Scientific literature confirms that dermal quality is an important predictive factor for aesthetic outcomes. Conclusion A successful cosmetic procedure also depends on skin quality. Avoiding sun exposure, deeply hydrating, and following a targeted routine in the months leading up to surgery is a smart investment in your final result. Relying on expert specialists allows for the creation of a customized, safe preoperative plan suited to your skin type and lifestyle. And get ready… even under the sun Planning a cosmetic procedure? Learn how to prepare your skin for the best possible result.Plastic Surgery – Aventino Medical Group

By Dr. Iris Feingold, Aesthetic Medicine Specialist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Summer and aesthetic treatments: be cautious with the sun When it comes to beauty, it’s easy to forget that summer and aesthetic treatments don’t always go hand in hand. With longer daylight hours and more intense UV exposure, the skin undergoes significant changes: shifts in melanin production, increased dehydration, and heightened sensitivity.“The sun affects everything—from healing to pigmentation risks,” explains Dr. Iris Feingold. For this reason, certain procedures should be modified, postponed, or avoided during the summer months. In this article, we’ll explore which treatments to avoid during summer, which ones are recommended, and how to keep your skin healthy and radiant safely.You’ll also learn: Treatments to avoid in summer: peels, lasers, and photosensitizing acids During summer, certain aesthetic treatments increase the risk of skin discoloration, irritation, and UV damage. These include: Combining photosensitizing procedures with UV radiation can lead to persistent hyperpigmentation and slow healing. Leading aesthetic medicine guidelines (SIME, Aesthetic Surgery Journal) advise against such techniques in sunny months, especially on exposed areas like the face, décolleté, and hands. The best strategy? Postpone these treatments until autumn, when sun intensity decreases and the skin is less reactive. What can be done in summer? Hydration, radiance, and prevention While some treatments should be avoided, summer can be the perfect time to enhance skin hydration and tone, thanks to procedures that are safe and well-tolerated even with sun exposure. Recommended options include: These techniques help keep the skin fresh, firm, and protected against environmental stressors. They also improve tan longevity and prevent dehydration-induced wrinkles. Remember: even in summer, aesthetic medicine can be a valuable ally—if performed by qualified professionals following seasonally adapted protocols. Essential precautions for summer treatments Those undergoing aesthetic procedures during the warmer months should follow key precautions to protect the skin and ensure optimal results: Even dark or already tanned skin needs care: melanin does not protect against laser or peel damage. A careful assessment of skin phototype, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals helps determine a treatment plan that is safe and seasonally appropriate. Conclusion Aesthetic medicine doesn’t stop in summer—it simply adapts. Avoiding photosensitizing treatments and focusing on hydration and prevention is the best way to maintain healthy, glowing skin. Each season requires its own strategy, and knowing which procedures are sun-safe is key to avoiding stressed skin and revealing your natural radiance. And enhance your natural beauty… even in summer Want to find out which treatments are right for your skin this season?Medicina Estetica – Aventino Medical Group

How to Protect Your Intimate Health in the Summer HeatBy Dr. Giuseppe Martinelli, gynecologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Intimate health at risk in the heat: what you need to know When we think of summer, sunscreen and hydration often come to mind. Yet there’s another delicate part of the body that’s frequently overlooked: the intimate area. Summer heat, sweat, sand, humidity, and synthetic clothing can disrupt the natural balance of the vaginal flora, increasing the risk of discomforts such as irritation, cystitis, vaginitis, and yeast infections. “The intimate area is as sensitive as the skin on your face,” explains Dr. Giuseppe Martinelli, gynecologist. “In summer, the risk of imbalance grows—especially at the beach or pool, where heat, moisture, and sand combine.” To protect feminine intimate health, it’s essential to adopt simple daily habits: wear cotton underwear, use gentle cleansers with a physiological pH, and pay attention to the signals your body sends. Prevention is the first step toward a calm and healthy summer—even for your intimate well-being. Risk factors for intimate health: age, climate, and daily habits Intimate health is closely linked to the balance of the vaginal microbiota, a protective ecosystem primarily composed of lactobacilli. Age and hormones play a key role: during low-estrogen phases (childhood, pregnancy, menopause), the production of glycogen—which lactobacilli feed on—decreases. This leads to a rise in vaginal pH and a higher susceptibility to infections. Warm and humid environments, like summer in Rome, intensify sweating and trap moisture in the genital area, encouraging the growth of Candida albicans, Gardnerella vaginalis, and other opportunistic pathogens. Wearing synthetic, non-breathable, or tight clothing—or staying in a wet swimsuit too long—reduces local oxygenation and alters the hydrolipidic film of the mucosa. According to the European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG) and the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA), it’s best to wear cotton underwear daily, use intimate cleansers with an acidic physiological pH (4.0–4.5), and, in cases of recurrent imbalance, consider vaginal probiotics containing Lactobacillus crispatus or rhamnosus, which help restore a healthy flora. Prevention: small actions that make a big difference To protect your intimate health during the warmer months: A gynecological visit before summer can be particularly helpful for those with recurrent vaginal infections or even mild but persistent symptoms. Pay close attention to signs like itching, burning, abnormal discharge, unpleasant odor, pain during intercourse, or frequent urination. These are warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Seeing a specialist early helps prevent complications, identify the cause, and receive personalized, targeted treatment. Conclusion Take care of your intimate health—even in summer. Heat, humidity, and seasonal habits can disrupt the vaginal flora and lead to recurring discomforts. Knowing the risk factors, adopting good daily practices, and listening to your body is the first step to enjoying summer in full well-being. And don’t forget your intimate health… even on vacation Have questions or symptoms? Speak to your trusted gynecologist.Ginecologia – Aventino Medical Group Sources: