Women warned to not use ice lollies to chill ‘intimate areas’ in sweltering heatwave
Amid an “exceptional” May heat spell with temperatures into the low-to-mid 30s, a sexual wellness expert has warned people not to use ice lollies or other frozen foods on their genitals
Many of us are looking for quick ways to cool down(Image: Getty Images/Westend61)
As the UK is bombarded by unusually warm weather this week, many of us are looking for quick ways to cool down. As our bedrooms, homes, and commutes become uncomfortable, some people may take desperate measures for relief, and as the week goes on, that desperation will increase.
One cooling “hack” that has circulated online in previous heatwaves involves using ice lollies or frozen items on intimate areas. Frankie Morris has warned people not to put ice lollies or any other frozen food on their genitals in an attempt to cool down.
Frankie said: “We aren’t used to this heat, so it’s obvious why people go to these extremes, but doing so will put your health at risk.”
The warning comes after the Met Office has said the UK has seen an “exceptional spell of warmth” for May, with temperatures reaching the low-to-mid 30s in parts of the country and very warm conditions continuing through the week. While putting frozen items on certain parts of your body may give you a temporary cooling effect, it can cause serious issues.
Frankie, a sexual wellness expert from adult retailer SoloFun, said: “Ice lollies, frozen food or anything else sugary near your intimate areas is going to cause you a problem. The skin around these areas is sensitive to extreme cold, sugar, and flavourings that were never meant for intimate use.
“Using them in this way can cause irritation, discomfort and infections.” Doctors have warned in the past that ice lollies should not be placed inside the vagina due to the risk of irritation, infection, trauma and the possibility of items breaking.
“If something has not been designed for intimate use, then it shouldn’t be used there,” Frankie said.
Cooling down safely
If you want to keep cool during this heatwave, stick to cold showers, wear breathable cotton underwear, and choose loose clothing. You should also drink plenty of water and try to keep your room as cool as possible.
While these hacks can be tempting, you should never copy them without thinking about the risks involved.
“There are plenty of ways to cool down during this heatwave that don’t involve putting your health at risk. While the heat is uncomfortable to many of us right now, the answer isn’t to reach for something from the freezer and use it somewhere it was never meant to go,” warns Frankie.
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