Our vaginas are sensitive areas that require regular maintenance to avoid suffering from vaginal infections. The reproductive organs are indeed perfectly capable of taking care of their designated functions on their own. Nevertheless, a little help in maintaining good intimate hygiene can go a long way. After all, vaginal hygiene plays an all-important role in improving women’s health and wellness.
Throughout the various reproductive phases in their lives, women are likely to experience vaginal infections from a lack of proper vaginal hygiene. However, most do not have access to authentic and reliable tips on maintaining what is ‘down there.’
Here are ten simple essential dos and don’ts that every woman needs to know for a happy, healthy, and hygienic vagina:
DO WEAR COMFORTABLE UNDERWEAR:
Synthetic or tight-fitting garments restrict air circulation in the vaginal area and reduce moisture flow. Consequently, they might cause rashes and inflammation by rubbing against your skin. Wear comfortable underwear, tights, and jeans to improve your vaginal hygiene. Try wearing cotton or natural fabrics that allow your skin to breathe.
DO INDULGE IN SAFE SEXUAL PRACTICES:
Sex as an activity is not unhealthy. It helps keep away vaginal dryness during menopause periods. What makes it unhygienic is the kind of practices involved during intercourse. Always wear a condom, make sure to urinate and wash up with warm water after sex and avoid sharing sex toys.
DON’T FORGET TO CHANGE SANITARY PADS:
Whether you use menstrual pads, cups or tampons, do remember to change those products every four to five years to maintain menstrual hygiene. It will also help you feel cleaner and fresher if you gently wipe or wash down there with warm water more often while on your period.
DO WASH EVERY DAY:
The purpose of urging people to maintain vaginal hygiene is to make them feel clean and comfortable. To attain that, gently washing the vulva every day with warm water is a great way to keep your intimate part fresh and cleansed.
DON’T SHAVE OFF YOUR PUBIC HAIR:
The growth of pubic hair is to protect your vaginal region from harmful bacteria. A light trim with scissors would be alright, but completely shaving off the hair, especially using razors, is a huge no-no! It may cause rashes and razor burns and pave the way for unwanted bacteria to enter.
DO USE A SOFT TOWEL TO CLEAN:
It is necessary to clean or wipe your vaginal area dry after washing. As is already aware, our vagina is a very delicate organ. After washing, rinse it with warm water and wipe using a clean, dry, and soft towel. Wipe it from front to back to avoid infections.
DON’T USE HARMFUL LUBRICANTS:
Lubricants can help ease friction during intimate moments but choosing and using the right one makes all the difference. Avoid using petroleum jelly, baby oils, or lotions as lubes. Instead, try using water-based ones.
DO TRY KEGEL EXERCISES:
Kegel exercises strengthen women’s pelvic floor and vaginal muscles, helping in improved blood circulation and natural lubrication. Additionally, it helps those suffering from urinary leakage, so it’s a multi-beneficial wellness activity.
DON’T USE CHEMICAL PRODUCTS:
The core of intimate hygiene is maintaining vaginal pH. Disruptions like using vaginal care products like soaps, wipes, or sprays made with harmful chemicals can cause pH imbalance and damage the sensitivity of the vaginal region.
Use products designed with natural ingredients to address vaginal concerns like earthvedic’s Soothe Vaginal Care Gel and take your vaginal hygiene game up a notch!