Women often receive conflicting advice regarding what their vulva and vagina should look like, yet the reality is that both areas tend to naturally clean themselves without needing special products or attention.
Douching can remove beneficial bacteria that protect against yeast infections, while yoni pearls don’t seem to work (though garlic has been found effective against this issue in laboratory settings). Cotton underwear allows airflow through, while non-scented soaps and lotions should also be safe options.
Cleansing
Vaginal cleansing refers to the act of cleaning the vulva. To maintain optimal results, daily vaginal cleaning with warm water and gentle soap like Dove or Neutrogena should take place in order to avoid infections as well as issues like itching or burning in this sensitive area.
Douching and other practices that cause irritation or infection should be avoided by women, while antiseptic soaps, shower gels or antibacterial products should not be applied directly to the vulva since this can interfere with healthy bacteria balance in this area.
Participants in our research reported feeling pressure to use vaginal cleansing products that are advertised as being safe for intimate areas, with claims such as being doctor approved often coming into question. One participant commented that she doesn’t “usually trust” product labels suggesting they don’t always mean anything (another participant used the phrase, “any doctor could have approved that”) (Jenkins et al., 2018; Ferranti & O’Doherty 2009).
Tampons
Tampons are small cylindrical devices made of absorbent material designed to soak up menstrual blood. Available in various sizes and absorbencies for light to heavy periods, tampons can help combat menstrual blood. Deodorant may also be added for added odor control – so changing tampons regularly will prevent its buildup.
Many girls begin using tampons during puberty. Newcomers to using them may need help learning the safest techniques; speak to an adult for advice.
Some tampons feature applicators to assist you in inserting them, while others can be placed with just your fingers. Make sure that you wash your hands after handling tampons, since their handling may increase your risk for toxic shock syndrome (TSS), an uncommon yet potentially life-threatening bacterial infection. TSS should always be handled carefully; its effects can be devastating.
Rates of TSS have steadily been decreasing over time. This can be partially attributed to improved tampon labeling and education efforts, so always follow tampon instructions when changing it every 4-6 hours or when saturated.
Pads
Pads are small cotton cylindrical pads designed to fit inside the vagina and offer various absorbencies for light to heavy periods. Reusable versions are also available and better for the environment as they can be washed repeatedly.
Pros: Pads provide a less invasive method of blood removal than tampons, and are less visible under tight or minimal clothing. Furthermore, pad have lower risk of TSS due to not needing any form of insertion.
Cons: Adjusting to an IUD may take practice and some women experience leakage. They can also shift out of place and move into the area between vaginal opening and anus called the perineum, leading to itching or feeling like wearing wet undergarment.
Reusable pads for girls can be found at natural health stores and feature soft yet absorbent materials free from synthetics or bleach that may help prevent leaks and irritation.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers and lubricants can provide much-needed relief during menstruation, prior to sexual activity, and during sex. Furthermore, these treatments can ease discomfort caused by Vulvodynia – an uncomfortable condition involving pain in the vulva canal and vagina.
These nonhormonal, over-the-counter products are nonhormonal and available without a valid prescription, designed to moisturize the vulva and canal while not treating estrogen deficiency. Women should use them 3-4 times each week.
Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer is an excellent solution, featuring prefilled applicators that can be used daily to keep vulva and canal moist. This product has the right pH level and amount of osmolality, making it similar to natural vaginal secretions.
FemiClear is another top choice, which offers gentle yet unscented cleaning of external genitalia (outside the vagina). Daily use can help moisturize the vulva and relieve itching; and can be purchased at most drugstores and online at an affordable cost.
