Personal hygiene encompasses multiple practices such as bathing, handwashing and teeth brushing. Everyday we encounter millions of germs from outside that could infiltrate our bodies and make us sick.
Hygiene routines vary significantly among individuals – especially when it comes to female hygiene. This article offers advice for maintaining good female hygiene.
Wash your genitalia
Maintaining cleanliness in intimate areas is an integral component of feminine hygiene, helping prevent bacteria infections as well as any issues that may arise such as abnormal vaginal discharge or unpleasant odors that could develop, as well as longer term illnesses like cervical cancer or ovarian cancer.
Genital care requires gentle soap alternatives or natural emollients such as coconut oil. Washing with water alone should suffice, although overcleaning could irritate the skin in this area and increase susceptibility to infection. Therefore, it’s recommended that at least once daily using hot shower water you cleanse from front to back to avoid bacteria transference from anus and perineum to vulva.
To protect the vulva further, choose cotton underwear that breathes well and changes frequently – avoid tight fitting underwear which trap moisture, causing odor and rashes in the vulva.
Change your sanitary items
An effective sanitary regimen is key to feeling comfortable and safe during that time of the month. Be sure to change your sanitary pad, tampon or pantyliner regularly enough in order to prevent leaks and unpleasant odors.
Discard your sanitary products properly by wrapping them in toilet paper and disposing of them in an appropriate rubbish bin. Not only is this great for the environment, but it can help maintain a balanced bacterial ecosystem within your vulva.
Unfortunately, not everyone has access to feminine hygiene products they need for menstruation, particularly homeless individuals and students who live in shelters and institutions. This lack of access is known as period poverty and must be tackled effectively – such as one Kenyan social enterprise known as ZanaAfrica which combines high-quality yet low-cost sanitary pads with comprehensive health curriculums and training to equip girls with all of the resources needed to manage their periods.
Keep your genitalia dry
Skin in the intimate area is sensitive, so to prevent irritation from occurring it’s best to keep this area dry.
Preventing yeast infections and other issues such as urinary tract infections is key.
Women of all ages should regularly wash their genital area with warm water (not soap) and an unscented feminine hygiene product, without adding chemicals like antibacterial soaps or shower gel, to preserve its delicate ecosystem and ensure bacteria do not grow unchecked in this delicate ecosystem. Any interference by such products as anti-bacterial soaps or shower gel can cause the growth of harmful bacteria which could cause symptoms like itching or rashes.
Wear loose cotton underwear over tight-fitting nylon or polyester so your skin can breathe, keeping you dry. Also change it periodically throughout the day – particularly after activities like exercise or coming back from the beach/pool.
Take care of your skin
Care for your skin in multiple ways. Regular washing, moisturising with quality moisturizer and staying hydrated are all effective strategies for keeping it in optimal health. Incorporating skincare routines can also assist with treating various skin conditions including dry, oily and sensitive skin conditions.
Your genital area requires special care and maintenance, particularly during monsoon season and menstruation periods to prevent infections. When selecting soaps, be sure to choose ones with neutral pH values such as mild pH balanced ones that won’t lead to Vulvar Dermatitis flare-ups.
An essential step to protecting and maintaining healthy skin begins with diet. A nutritious and varied diet full of fresh vegetables, fruits and healthy fats will nourish both your body and skin.
Habits take time to form, so start small by adding one thing at a time to gradually strengthen your hygiene routine. Your body and genital region will thank you!
