Optimizing Vaginal Health Practices

What are Good Hygiene Practices?

Good hygiene practices are washing vulva, that area around your vaginal opening, with diluted soap which is chemical-free and also removing all the collected secretions from the lips with the pulp of your finger and avoiding nails there. Washing your anal region after this with the regular soap. This has to be done every day and before having intercourse. Always pass urine before and  after intercourse. Stay hydrated and have probiotics daily to avoid urine and vaginal infections.

What are common mistakes women have about perineal hygiene?

• One of the most common misconceptions is that a lot of women think that they should douche inside the vagina, and that’s a big NO. Vagina doesn’t need any douching, it’s a self cleaning organ. You only need to clean outside of the vagina.
• Another common misconception is being worried about infections when women see that their panties look whitewashed. Healthy vaginal secretions or discharge is acidic pH, which leads to corrosive effect on your cloths.

When should women seek health provider?

• Women should visit their gynecologist when they have smelly discharge, itching near the vulva and vagina, pain during intercourse, rash near the vagina or vulva, burning while passing urine, frequent urination, and pain while passing urine.
• Don’t take your symptoms for granted and assume they shall pass by themselves. Also, avoid using over-the-counter antibiotics as it will lead to incomplete treatment and frequent recurrence.

What are the benefits of taking probiotics for good vaginal health?

Vagina, like your gut, also has good and bad bacteria. The good bacteria ensure that the pH of the vagina is acidic and helps them from fighting against infections. Taking a diet high in probiotics will help women maintain better vaginal and gut health as well. Probiotics also help women with endometriosis, infertility, frequent vaginal infections and PCOS.