The do’s and don’ts of vaginal hygiene
Your vagina is a goddess. She deserves to be loved, nurtured, and absolutely worshipped. From yoni eggs through to vagina washes, you probably want to treat your girl to the best of the best. Admittedly, it can be hard to know what products to use down there. So, we’re laying some truth and clearing up the confusion, because feminine hygiene products have absolutely no purpose in the healthy upkeep of your lady parts.
Big call, right? But what if we told you that your vagina is a self-cleaning machine? Precisely like those fancy ovens, your vagina is a total independent, slaying her way through life, and cleaning up as she goes. You bet she is! So, you can say goodbye to the vagina wipes, feminine soaps, and douching (thank gawd). Here are the only tips you’ll need on how to keep your vagina clean.
First up, what’s the difference between a vagina and a vulva?
Oh, we are so glad you’ve asked! Although ‘vagina’ has commonly become the term to collectively define the duo, the vulva and vagina are two separate body parts. The vulva is the external parts of the female anatomy, including the labia majora, labia minora, and the clitoris. Whereas the vagina is the muscular canal that connects the vulva to the cervix, internally.
Okay, now that’s clear, what is the best way to clean your vagina?
The best way to keep your vagina clean is by letting it do its self-cleaning thing. The vagina has a naturally low pH which discourages the growth of foreign organisms whilst maintaining full-time cleanliness via discharge. Acts of douching, steaming and soap cleansing can disrupt the vaginal atmosphere, leading to an imbalanced pH and higher risk of issues like bacterial vaginosis (BV). As for the vulva, a gentle rinse with warm water will keep her happy.
What if you have a lot of discharge? Is your vagina still normal?
Vaginal discharge is a completely normal fact of womanhood. The colour, texture, odour and volume of your discharge fluctuates in alignment with your cycle. If you’re ever concerned or notice any abnormalities, the best practice is to make an appointment with your trusted healthcare professional. In the meantime, you can learn more about vaginal discharge here.
Other ways to keep your vagina clean and healthy:
- Wear 100% cotton underwear and steer clear of synthetics. Save the lace lingerie for special occasions.
- Avoid nylon pantyhose. Nylon is a trap for heat and moisture – the perfect breeding ground for unwelcomed organisms. Wear cotton tights or tights with a cotton crotch.
- Pre-wash new panties before wearing. We know you do this already.
- Say no to douching. *Cue the collective cheer*.
- Stop spending cash on fabric softeners – they may irritate your lady parts.
- Keep scented hygiene products away from your vagina. This includes douches, soaps, bubble bath, perfumes, deodorants, and talcum powder.
- Go commando when sleeping (do you really need an invitation?). Even cotton underwear is capable of trapping moisture which could lead to yeast and bacterial growth.
