Your vaginal and vulvar health is a critical aspect of your overall well-being. A clean and happy vagina and vulva are key to ensuring comfort, confidence, and sexual satisfaction. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the essential tips and practices for maintaining optimal vaginal and vulvar health. From hygiene to lifestyle choices, we’ll cover it all to help you feel your best..
Personal hygiene is something that needs your attention more than anything else. If all is not well down there, it can be very distracting, let’s say you have an itchy vagina and you are completely distracted from your meeting and compellingly want to itch.
Here is a solution on how to clean vagina and vulva. Keep on reading to know some more tips that will ensure keeping the infection at bay.
What are the common sign and symptoms of vaginal problems?
A woman goes through a lot in her lifetime, and she keeps on ignoring her health issues and also compromises on her daily care routine.
A little negligence can invite many vaginal health issues and cause you following symptoms:
- Vaginal discharge or wet vagina
- itchy vagina,
- vaginal dryness,
- vaginal odor,
- itchy vulva,
How to clean your vagina and vulva?
Let’s recap the most basic anatomy of female reproductive system.
The vagina is a birth canal that connects the uterus with the outside world. And vulva is the outer part of the vagina.
There is no need to clean the vagina, it is a self-cleaning organ and what you have to do is to clean your vulva properly to prevent the infection from attacking.
How to wash your vulva?
You can simply wash your vulva with normal or lukewarm water. It is not necessary to use soap on your vulva as it can interfere with pH levels of the vagina or may irritate the skin.
To wash your vulva thoroughly, spread your lips apart with one hand and clean the folds with a washcloth or use your fingertips.
While washing , you can also wash the anal and perianal area but keep in mind wash from vulva to anus “front to back” otherwise bacteria from anas can spread to your vagina and may cause vaginal infection.
What about feminine wash or sprays?
You don’t need any feminine wash to clean your private area or sprays to smell like roses.
Feminine washes can interfere with pH balance and may cause vaginal dryness or itching. Only in special cases like you had a vaginal surgery and an episiotomy then your gynecologist may recommend you a gental intimate wash* only to keep the area infection free.
Vaginal douching
This is very important, AVOID VAGINA DOUCHING. It will not help in vaginal cleaning clean but will wash out all the healthy bacteria from the vagina and will make it dry.
Vagina has a few good bacteria occurring naturally inside, that helps the internal environment to stay clean and moist.
Vagina needs to smell like vagina, not roses or any of your favourite fragrances. So don’t touch for cleaning and don’t use and scented products.
What can I do to keep my vagina healthy?
Maintaining vaginal and vulva health is essential for overall well-being. Here are some guidelines to help you keep this area clean and happy:
- Practice Good Hygiene: Keep the vulva area clean by gently washing with warm water and mild, unscented soap. Avoid using harsh soaps, douches, or scented products, as they can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and pH levels, leading to irritation or infections.
- Be Mindful of Washing Techniques: When washing the genital area, it’s important to use gentle, outward motions. Avoid vigorous scrubbing or using rough materials, as this can cause irritation. After washing, pat the area dry with a clean towel. Remember to wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the vagina.
- Use Water-Based Lubricants: If you experience vaginal dryness during sexual activity, consider using a water-based lubricant to reduce discomfort and prevent irritation. Avoid petroleum-based products or those containing added fragrances, as they can potentially cause irritation or allergic reactions. Try these water-based lubricants* Formulated using pure natural ingredients for a comfortable and easy feel. This vegan formula is made without parabens, glycerin, silicone, gluten and hormones
- Wear Breathable Underwear: Opt for underwear made from breathable fabrics like cotton, which allows air circulation and helps maintain a healthy vaginal environment. Avoid tight-fitting underwear or synthetic materials that can trap moisture and heat, promoting the growth of bacteria.
- Practice Safe Sex: Use barrier methods such as condoms to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reduce the risk of vaginal infections. Additionally, regular STI testing and open communication with sexual partners are important for maintaining vaginal health.
- Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, potentially leading to yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. Only take antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional and follow the recommended dosage.
- Limit Scented Products: Fragranced products like perfumes, sprays, and tampons can cause irritation and disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina. It’s best to avoid using these products in the genital area.
- Pay Attention to Changes: Be aware of any changes in vaginal discharge, odor, itching, or discomfort. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as a foul odor, unusual discharge, persistent itching, or pain, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet: Drinking an adequate amount of water and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can contribute to overall vaginal health. Proper hydration helps maintain the body’s natural lubrication and supports the overall function of bodily systems.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular visits with a gynecologist or healthcare provider for routine check-ups, Pap smears, and other screenings. These examinations can help detect any potential issues early on and ensure optimal vaginal and reproductive health.
Remember, every individual is unique, and it’s important to listen to your body’s needs. If you have specific concerns or questions about vaginal and vulva health, consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended.
Type of underwear you use also decide your vaginal health. To prevent infections make sure you follow these rules of underwear.
If you like this article do give it a big thumbs-up to keep me inspired and motivated to provide you with more and more tips for female hygiene. You can always reach out to me in the comment section with your queries and feedback.
