Feminine hygiene (vulvar hygiene) refers to the practice of caring for external genitalia such as pubic mount, inner and outer labia and clitoris.
Women regularly use feminine hygiene products like tampons, sanitary pads, menstrual cups and panty liners that contain EDCs that could disrupt normal flora and pH levels in the external vulva.
Cleanse
Women’s hygiene plays a vital role in their overall health and comfort. From puberty to pregnancy to menopause, proper feminine hygiene practices must be observed at all times for optimal health and comfort.
Soaps or douches with strong detergents can disrupt the normal colony of bacteria in the vaginal area and lead to infections. Furthermore, overwashing or using inappropriate soap may result in yeast infections.
Also, feminine washes may dry the delicate vulva skin and lead to irritation and itching, while using clean water can gently cleanse vulva and anus when bathing – particularly after visiting the bathroom! Doing this will prevent harmful bacteria from your anus entering your vagina and leading to an unpleasant infection or worse – which is especially important following going to the restroom! Additionally, always wipe from front-back in order to avoid clogging up anus canals – doing this can also reduce unpleasant odors!
Tampons
Tampons are made from absorbent materials compressed into small cylindrical units to absorb blood during your menstrual period. Unlike pads which sit outside your underwear, tampons are placed directly into your vagina and can come in various sizes and absorbencies ranging from super to light; some come equipped with an applicator while others must be inserted manually using fingers. Some contain deodorant to help minimize odor problems; however regular changing typically eliminates these concerns.
Finding the appropriate menstrual product depends on comfort, flow rate, lifestyle factors and individual preference. Trial-and-error may be required before finding what works for you.
Many menstruators live in areas with limited access to affordable, high-quality feminine hygiene products at an affordable cost, while certain racialized groups are particularly likely to experience period poverty. Campaigns aiming at normalizing discussions around menstruation and menstrual products can help address these challenges while furthering menstrual equity.
Pads
Pads (also known as menstrual pads or sanitary napkins) have long been an essential feminine hygiene product, but their plastic applicators and synthetic materials contribute significantly to American landfills, increasing risk for toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Potential alternatives may include reusable fabric napkins, sea sponge tampons or period underwear as more eco-friendly choices.
Finding the appropriate product is of vital importance when it comes to treating TSS, a life-threatening condition caused by certain bacteria. If you’re susceptible, use the lowest absorbency tampon available and seek medical help immediately if symptoms arise. Alternatively, thin pads with wings might help prevent leakage; make sure you change your pad every three to four hours as this reduces infection risks; wash your hands prior and after inserting pads as this reduces infection risks further and avoid using scented ones as these may irritate skin in this area and cause contact dermatitis – avoid these as they could irritate skin of vulva and cause contact dermatitis!
Condoms
Condoms are an essential component of women’s feminine hygiene kits for preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Available both male and female varieties in an assortment of colours, flavors and textures – always check the expiry date – you can purchase condoms in family planning clinics, sex shops, pharmacies (chemists) or online. Lubricant may also be purchased; please read product labels carefully as some types can damage toys and increase pregnancy or STI risks.
The archaic Djukas tribe of New Guinea had their own version of a female condom – a sheath introduced into the vagina before sexual intercourse to prevent conception. This device measured six inches long, chalice-shaped with one end open and another closed; held in place by pressure exerted from vagina pressure. This differed significantly from modern female condoms which consist of thin rubber sheaths worn erect on an erect penis to collect sperm and prevent pregnancy.
