The Vulva (the pubic mound, clitoris, labia and vaginal canal connecting cervix and uterus) can be delicate to touch; taking care to look after it helps prevent infections and issues.
The healthy vulva acts as its own self-cleaning organ, producing discharge that is clear or white in colour without an unpleasant fishy aroma. Douching, using synthetic underwear or delaying sexual encounters too frequently may alter this balance and result in infection.
Clean Your Vulva Daily
An ideal vagina contains bacteria to defend it against disease, but you can further ensure its health by practicing safe sex and wearing cotton underwear for better airflow.
Your intimate areas require daily cleansing with warm water and unscented soap, since scented varieties may irritate skin. Use either a soft washcloth or your hands to carefully clean around your anus, perineal fold and vulva – front to back if possible to prevent bacteria from your anus migrating into the area and potentially leading to an infection in the area of the vulva.
Avoid overwashing your vulva as this can cause irritation and disturb its delicate pH balance, thus increasing chances of bacterial vaginosis (BV). Instead, take showers or wash your vulva daily with warm water and make sure you dry the area afterwards; add an emollient into your intimate care routine to soothe any itchy spots on your skin.
Don’t Overclean
The vulva is home to an intricate ecosystem of tiny organisms that work in unison to keep vaginal health at its optimal levels. Douching or washing too frequently may disrupt this equilibrium and allow harmful bacteria to thrive more readily than intended.
Cleaning the area just outside the vulva opening (known as the labia) using only water and unscented soap is recommended to maintain healthy vulvae and avoid treatable gynaecological infections like thrush and bacterial vaginosis.
Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotics may help combat yeast infections when taken daily as part of your regimen, such as through yogurt consumption or supplements. You can find plenty of Lactobacillus acidophilus available both sources.
Another easy feminine hygiene tip is to wipe from front to back after going to the restroom, in order to protect against bacteria entering through your anus and entering the vagina. This will prevent potentially harmful germs from your anus entering and damaging vaginal health.
Don’t Use Feminine Hygiene Products
At first glance, it may be tempting to purchase feminine hygiene products with beautiful pink packaging and alluring floral fragrances, or products touted as necessary by ads. But the vulva requires gentle care rather than harsh cleansers or perfumed products that bombard it.
Use of scented soap can alter its natural microbiome, leading to irritation. Douching (i.e. wiping down labia minora with homemade solutions or store-bought washes) can also alter this balance and lead to inflammation of the vulva.
Gynecologists advise using only vaginal moisturizers that contain no added fragrances or talc, such as gel or cream moisturizers. Or suppository (suh-PAH-tor-ee), which are solid capsules designed to be placed into your vulva. Both should be safe if you suffer from conditions like eczema, dry skin or psoriasis.
Take Charge of Your Sexual Health
Care of “down there” may seem difficult and awkward, but with just a few habits you can ensure optimal vaginal health. Be sure to drink enough water – this not only benefits overall health but helps the vulva stay hydrated! Additionally, understanding what your body is telling you – such as understanding menstruation cycles and changes in vaginal discharge is also key to ensure overall vaginal wellness.
Make sexual health a top priority, including practicing safe sex and using condoms during sexual encounters in order to prevent STDs. Also make sure to make regular appointments with a gynecologist in order to receive a comprehensive reproductive health assessment.
Your vulva is your lifelong partner and should be treated accordingly. By practicing good hygiene, drinking sufficient water, using natural lubricants such as coconut oil or choosing healthier lifestyle options you can ensure a long and happy relationship with it.
