Maintaining healthy feminine hygiene practices is integral for overall wellness. Unfortunately, many procedures and products on the market today contain misleading claims which make hygiene routines seem unnecessary or unnecessary.
Maintaining proper vulvovaginal hygiene requires showering regularly and using mild soaps when cleaning the vulva and disinfecting external pubic area after each sex encounter. Scented soaps may irritate sensitive skin or disrupt its natural pH balance; those seeking optimal results should instead opt for unscented options that adhere to this approach.
Sanitary napkins
Sanitary napkins are an integral component of feminine hygiene, offering protection and comfort during menstruation. Available in various shapes, sizes, and absorbency levels to meet different body types and flow intensities, sanitary napkins provide essential protection and comfort to help ensure consumer satisfaction and build brand loyalty.
Women suffering from light urinary incontinence often turn to panty liners or sanitary napkins to address small leakages; however, these products cannot stop heavier leakage that could result in serious health complications. Therefore, practicing good menstrual hygiene such as regularly changing sanitary pads, wearing breathable clothing and taking regular baths can help decrease irritation and infection risk.
Opting for sanitary napkins made of hypoallergenic materials reduces the risk of allergic reactions. Many brands also provide organic options, and these pads are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances which could potentially lead to skin irritation or rashes.
Tampons
Menstrual hygiene products like tampons have become one of the most essential items, offering absorption levels ranging from absorbency levels 1-5 and can come equipped with plastic or cardboard applicators to make inserting them into vagina easier. Always insert carefully, as prolonged exposure to TSS could result in serious infection.
Studies indicate that TSS rates have declined over time, possibly as a result of better information regarding labeling and increased education by manufacturers. Yet concerns persist over metal contamination in tampons that could lead to dementia, cancer and organ damage.
Tampons are widely available across stores and pharmacies in the US, yet may not be affordable to low-income women who menstruate. Such women may experience “period poverty,” or the difficulty in accessing menstrual hygiene products like tampons. Attempts at alleviating period poverty include legislation providing incentives for schools, homeless shelters and correctional facilities to provide tampons as part of efforts against period poverty.
Menstrual cups
Menstrual cups are reusable menstrual hygiene products designed to collect menstrual blood during periods. Constructed of antitoxic silicone or latex and designed to be thin and flexible, menstrual cups may be inserted with or without an applicator; many women find it easier to insert their cup if wet first.
Sanitizing a cup is simple with water and mild soap; however, be sure to read and follow any specific directions that accompany your cup for best results. A thorough wash helps reduce bacteria entering the vagina and increasing risk for UTIs or other infections.
Menstrual cups offer an economical and long-term alternative to tampons. Although it takes some practice getting used to inserting and removing menstrual cups, tracking your flow may help as will using different sizes to find your optimal fit. Rinsing thoroughly after each use is key too!
Underwear
The vulva is delicate, so care must be taken in choosing underwear that’s soft to touch and breathable – cotton is often recommended, since it quickly wicks away sweat and discharge to keep bacteria at bay and avoid odor.
Synthetic fabrics like nylon and spandex should also be avoided as these less-breathable materials trap in heat and moisture, potentially leading to bacterial infections such as BV and STIs.
Personal hygiene habits have an immense effect on the microbiome in the genital area, so it is vital that you follow a regular, rigorous routine for washing regularly and changing panties often in order to maintain a hygienic environment in this sensitive region.
