Do you want to know the best method for vaginal hygiene? You won't need to, despite popular belief. The first order of business is a refresher course in fundamental anatomy. However, the term "vagina" actually only refers to the canal inside your body, despite the common misconception that it encompasses all of a woman's sexual organs. Washing your vagina is unnecessary because only your vulva needs to be cleaned.
Here's why you shouldn't go wash your privates every day
Imagine that your vagina is a home that gets cleaned automatically by a maid once a week. On Wednesdays, your house will be cleaned so you can relax knowing it's ready for you to return. The same holds true for your vagina. It takes care of itself, literally. But how does it accomplish this feat?
It keeps itself clean through secretions and keeps its pH at a healthy level. There are lots of healthy bacteria in your vagina. The vagina's naturally acidic pH is maintained in part by the bacteria living there. When your vaginal pH is low, it's more challenging for harmful bacteria to invade and cause infection.
Perhaps you have wondered if it's recommended to use soap when cleaning your vagina. To put it simply, no. It is possible to change the vagina's natural pH when using other products, such as scented soaps, feminine washes, and douches. Avoiding contact is the gold standard for vaginal hygiene.
A Guide to Vaginal Hygiene
On the other hand, washing your vulva is an entirely different story. To keep yourself clean and healthy, you should regularly wash your vulva.
Flush your vulva with warm water. Every day, wash the vaginal area gently with a bar of plain, unscented soap.
Split your lips open and use a damp washcloth or your hands to gently scrub the crevices. It's important to keep soap and water out of your vaginal area.
In the alternative, you can pat the area dry with a towel.
Don't forget to clean the area between your vulva and anus every day as well. When you wash from your vulva to your anus, you eliminate the potential for bacteria to spread from your anus to your vagina.
Is there a particular feminine wash that is the most effective at removing stale vulvar material?
The truth is that using no feminine wash at all is the most effective method of vulvar hygiene. Water and (possibly) a mild soap are the best choices.
The vagina's natural pH can be disrupted or caused to drop by using products with a lot of additives, such as fragrances.
However, there are items available that can be used to keep skin hydrated and odor free in between baths. But shop with caution just the same. Flavorings and other additives can cause dryness and alter the vaginal pH, so they should be avoided whenever possible. Because of the proximity of the vulva to the vagina, it is possible that some of the substance may enter the vagina. It's also unnecessary to use perfume around the genital area.
If you're going to buy something to clean your vulva, look for features like these.
Scent-free\sDermatologist-tested
Hypoallergenic
During your period, how frequently should you clean the vulva?
Having good vaginal hygiene is especially important during your period and may help you feel more at ease.
Preventing Period Discomfort with Proper Vaginal Hygiene
There's no need to panic if you get some blood on your privates; just wash it off with some soap and water. It's possible that using a feminine hygiene product on your thighs is safe, but you should be cautious about putting it anywhere near your vulva. It's close enough to your vagina to enter and throw off the pH balance. Vulvitis, which can lead to discomfort during s*x due to itching or burning, may also develop.
Use plain water or lukewarm water with mild soap instead of anything harsh when washing your vulva.
Tips for preventing and treating vulvar odor
The elimination of vulvar odor requires more than just a vulvar hygiene routine. Some vaginal odor is normal, but you may also notice an unpleasant odor now and then. The smell of your vaginal area fluctuates frequently; for example, it may change before, during, or after your period. Furthermore, a significant change in vaginal odor, especially if accompanied by vaginal discharge, may be an indicator of a more serious problem, such as an infection. If this is the case, you should probably see a doctor.
There is a natural range of vaginal odors, but you may also notice some unpleasant odors. Your vaginal scent fluctuates frequently; for example, it may change when you have your period or after you have sex.
Vaginal odor can be avoided in the future by remembering these steps once the cause has been found and removed.
Make sure you're using safe sexual practices. Always use condoms and get checked for STIs to protect yourself and your partner from the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
Eat well to stay healthy. Vaginal health, like overall health, benefits from a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Take care to maintain an adequate fluid intake. Fluid release and healthy sweating are aided by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Please don't use any kind of douche or other feminine washes. The vagina's natural pH balance can be disrupted by using these products, which can do more harm than good.
Don't forget to wash your genitalia before and after making love. It's important to wash your vulva and pubic area before and after sex to prevent the spread of bacteria and the introduction of foreign substances like lubricants.
Hygiene practices for the genital area
If you've ruled out a medical cause but are still struggling to get rid of vaginal odor, these strategies may help.
Improving Your Vaginal Hygiene
Maintain sanitary vaginal and vulvar hygiene. Vaginal hygiene includes regular washings with a washcloth and water or mild soap to remove any accumulated bacteria from the vaginal exterior. Keep in mind that using scented body washes or other specialized feminine products can change the vagina's natural pH.
Cotton underwear is recommended. Silk, satin, and polyester ties are not nearly as breathable as cotton ones. Cotton is superior to synthetics in wicking moisture away from the body. Bacterial growth and other issues, like yeast infections, can be exacerbated by too much moisture.
Take a product's pH into account. To achieve a more acidic vaginal pH, you can try using some OTC products.
If you have tried these remedies and they have not worked, your doctor may be able to offer additional assistance.
Bottom line
Cleaning your vagina is unnecessary because it cleans itself, but you should always maintain a sanitary vulva. All you need is some soap and some hot water. Wearing cotton underwear, eating healthily, and regularly washing the outside of the vagina are all great ways to keep your vagina clean and healthy.
Please note that the content of Healthierpress is intended for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace a doctor's advice, a medical professional's diagnosis, or medical treatment. Talk to a doctor right away if you're experiencing any kind of health issue.
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