Taking care of your vagina is essential for maintaining good health and hygiene, yet many women are still unsure about it. Thankfully, taking care of your lady bits isn’t as complicated as you might think!
To help you understand the basics of vaginal hygiene, we’ve composed a list of our top 7 tips for keeping things in order ‘down there’. From knowing when to shower to what products to use, find out how to keep your vagina at its happiest and healthiest.
Wear breathable underwear and clothing
We all know how important it is to take care of our intimate areas, but sometimes we might not know where to start. One simple tip is to opt for breathable fabrics when it comes to underwear and clothing. This can help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even infections.
Cotton underwear and loose-fitting pants or skirts are great options to consider. Plus, they’re usually comfortable and stylish! So make the switch and keep your lady parts happy and healthy.
Use mild, unscented soaps when showering or bathing
When it comes to taking care of our intimate parts, the last thing we want is to cause any irritation. That’s why it’s important to use mild, unscented soaps when showering or bathing.
These types of soaps are gentle on the delicate skin of your vulva and avoid causing any unnecessary irritation or discomfort. Plus, they won’t mess up your natural pH balance, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy and happy vagina.
Avoid douching
When it comes to maintaining good vaginal hygiene, one thing you should definitely avoid doing is douching. While it may seem like a quick and easy solution to feeling fresh down below, douching can actually do more harm than good.
This is because it can cause an imbalance in the natural bacteria that exists in your vagina, leading to a host of uncomfortable symptoms such as itching, burning, and unusual discharge.
Instead of relying on douching, it’s important to focus on other ways to keep your vagina clean and healthy, such as wearing breathable underwear.
Get rid of smell and stay dry
Vaginal hygiene is important for maintaining a healthy reproductive system. If you’re struggling with a persistent odor, an overgrowth of bacteria may be the culprit. Avoid tight clothing, wear cotton underwear, and avoid fragranced hygiene products.
Staying dry is key, so change out of sweaty workout clothes as soon as possible. One way to keep odor and moisture at bay is by using vaginal suppositories for dryness or supplements like chlorophyll. They can help to regulate pH levels, keeping bacteria in check and minimizing any unpleasant smells.
If these steps don’t seem to help, it may be worth consulting with your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Remember, taking care of your body is always a wise investment in your health and well-being.
Get regular gynecological exams
Taking care of your vaginal health is important for overall well-being. You want to make sure everything is healthy down there so it’s vital to schedule regular gynecological exams. By visiting your gynecologist, they can check for any potential infections or abnormalities that might go unnoticed.
Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your vaginal health. Don’t skip out on these exams because prevention is always better than cure.
Take care of hygiene during menstruation
Taking care of your vaginal hygiene during menstruation is important for staying clean and healthy. It’s recommended to change your sanitary pads or tampons regularly, at least every four hours, to avoid bacteria buildup.
When changing, make sure to properly wash your hands and use warm water to cleanse your body. Opt for cotton and breathable underwear and avoid tight clothing to prevent irritation and infection. It’s also useful to avoid using strong scented products such as soap, douches or powder in your intimate area as it may cause irritation and alter the pH balance of your vagina.
Keeping a good hygiene routine is not only essential for your health but also for making you feel more comfortable and confident during this time of the month.
Eat well
Taking good care of your vaginal health is important, and it includes following a healthy diet. By eating right, you can ensure that you are getting the nutrients that your body needs to function properly.
Foods that are high in nutrients like vitamins C and E, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids can all help to promote good vaginal health. Additionally, drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping your body hydrated, which is key for maintaining healthy vaginal fluids.
Making good food choices is just one part of the equation when it comes to vaginal hygiene, so be sure to incorporate these tips into a comprehensive plan for taking care of your body.
Dr. Stacy tyree is an American surgeon and author. She specializes in vascular surgery and bariatric surgery. She is also known for helping morbidly obese people to lose weight. Dr. Stacy tyree owns Doctor of Medicine degree and completed a Rotating Surgical internship at St. Johns Hospital. She has written several scholars on obesity.