Suvini Jayasekera, L.Ac MTCM
Vulvar hygiene is an important aspect to maintain overall health and well-being. Good hygiene practices help to prevent infections, irritation, and other unpleasant symptoms and help to maintain the natural balance of the vaginal microbiome. In this article, we'll discuss some key tips for maintaining good feminine hygiene.
Keep the vulva clean: The vulva is the external genital area, including the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening. It's important to keep this area clean to prevent irritation and infections. Use a gentle, unscented soap and water to wash the vulva daily, taking care to rinse thoroughly. Avoid using harsh soaps or douching, as these can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina and increase the risk of infections.
Use proper hygiene when using the toilet: It is best to use a bidet after each use to wash your genital area. If unable to wash, be sure to wipe front to back to avoid spreading bacteria from the anus to the vulva. It's also a good idea to use toilet paper that is unscented and free of dyes, as these can be irritating to the sensitive skin in the genital area.
Change pads and tampons regularly: Menstrual cups, pads, and tampons should be changed every 4-6 hours, or more frequently if necessary, to prevent the buildup of bacteria and the risk of infections. Be sure to wash your hands before and after changing, and always follow the instructions on the package for proper usage.
Wear breathable, moisture-wicking underwear: Choose underwear made from breathable materials, such as cotton, to help keep the genital area dry and prevent irritation. Synthetic materials, such as nylon and polyester, can trap moisture and heat, increasing the risk of infections. Look for moisture-wicking underwear or other moisture-wicking fabrics that can help to keep the genital area dry and reduce the risk of irritation.
Don't douche: Douching, or the practice of washing the inside of the vagina, can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and increase the risk of infections. The vagina is self-cleaning, and douching is not necessary for good hygiene.
Practice safe sex: Using condoms and other barrier methods during sexual activity can help to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It's important to use a new condom every time you have sex and to follow the instructions on the package for proper usage.
Urinate after sex: Urinating after sex can help to flush out any bacteria that may have been introduced during sexual activity and help to prevent infections.
Avoid scented products: Scented products, including scented lubricants and vaginal sprays, can be irritating to the genital area and increase the risk of infections. It's best to stick with unscented products or those that are specifically formulated for use in the genital area.
Take care of any cuts or abrasions: If you have any cuts or abrasions on or near the genital area, it's important to keep them clean and covered to prevent the risk of infection.
In conclusion, good vulvar hygiene is an important part of maintaining overall health and well-being. By following the tips outlined above, you can help to prevent irritation, infections, and other unpleasant symptoms and maintain the natural balance of the vaginal microbiome.