Women: managing intimate hygiene

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Extract from the article: As a woman, it is normal to take care of intimate hygiene. This delicate area requires very special treatment, as its pH is different from other parts of the body and tends to change more easily. Thus it is essential to maintain a balance between nat

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Every woman should take care of her intimate hygiene. This delicate area requires very special treatment, as its pH is different from other parts of the body and tends to change more easily. Thus it is essential to maintain a balance between natural pH and flora.

In its natural state, the vaginal flora has a rich flow of healthy bacteria that can cope with pathogens. However, it sometimes presents imbalances and this «protective barrier» weakens, causing bad smells and infections. This is why, in addition to the usual hygiene in the shower, it is essential to put into practice other recommendations that are decisive for taking care of health.

Wear appropriate underwear

The type of underwear you wear is essential to prevent vulvovaginal infections and strong odors. When these garments are made of synthetic materials, moisture is retained and bacterial growth increases.

Moreover, because they are not « breathable » tissues, they often produce a warm environment that also facilitates the proliferation of microorganisms. Therefore, in order to avoid the disadvantages, it is ideal to choose underwear in cotton or natural materials.

Have good hygiene habits

Hygiene habits are essential to take care of the intimate area. If it is obvious that we must follow them all, it is essential to specify that they must be performed correctly, avoiding the use of products that alter the vaginal flora.

The use of intimate soaps to neutralize odours and liquids is an excellent option, as they respect the acidic pH and maintain proper hygiene of the area. So it’s not about “hiding” the vaginal smell. To prevent irritation and infection, wash the area with soap and water. Then, make sure to dry it well so that the moisture does not affect the lack of control of the microorganisms.

Avoid vaginal showers  

Some women think that vaginal showers are their best allies to eliminate the bad smells that appear in this area. However, far from being beneficial, they cause pH imbalances that facilitate the development of infections.

Have a healthy sex life

Maintaining a healthy sex life is also important to take care of the intimate area. Although you can choose how to enjoy it, the healthiest thing is to have a stable sexual partner to reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections or diseases (STDs). However, if we use intimate lubricants or erogenous products, we must check that they are hypoallergenic, with components that do not modify the vaginal environment. The application of irritants can trigger odors, itching and other discomforts.

Constantly changing intimate protections

Towels used during menstruation should be changed constantly, about every 4 hours. Although not always noticed, menstrual bleeding increases pH and can cause unpleasant odours. During menstruation there is an inevitable change in the vaginal environment as the pH of the blood is 7.4. This is much higher than the normal vaginal pH. Therefore, to avoid infections as well as irritations and bad smells, it is necessary to make appropriate use of these hygiene products.

Control humidity

The vaginal area should never be dry. As it needs fluids to stay lubricated, it is normal that its environment is wet. However, it must be protected from outside moisture. This means avoiding wet underwear, pants that are too tight. Not monitoring moisture promotes growth and the appearance of fungi, bacteria and skin problems like dermatitis.

Avoid the use of sponges

Sponges are not suitable for taking care of the intimate area. Although they seem to help clean it better, they can actually cause side effects. These elements are aggressive to the skin and can cause irritation or injury.

In addition, because they absorb moisture, they often accumulate bacteria and fungi that are not visible to the naked eye. The right way to facilitate intimate cleansing is to gently pass the fingers over the folds of the vaginal lips.

William O.

Article validated by Dr Jean-Christophe Ayao, Gynecologist Obstetrician at the «La harpe de David» Clinic (Lomé-Togo)