Many women turn to different hygiene products and home remedies in an effort to keep their intimate areas clean, fresh and healthy.
However, medical experts warn that some of these practices may cause irritation, disrupt the natural balance of the vagina and increase the risk of infections.
The vagina has a natural self-cleaning system that helps maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria. For this reason, doctors generally advise against inserting unnecessary products or substances into it.
Here are four things health experts recommend avoiding when it comes to vaginal care.
1. Vaginal Douches
Douching involves washing the inside of the vagina with water or special cleansing solutions. Some women believe the practice helps eliminate unpleasant odours and improves hygiene, but medical experts say it is unnecessary.
According to health information published by Healthline and the Mayo Clinic, douching can interfere with the vagina’s natural balance of healthy bacteria. This may increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis and other infections, with some evidence also linking the practice to pelvic inflammatory disease.
Instead of cleaning the inside of the vagina, doctors recommend gently washing the external genital area, known as the vulva, with warm water. A mild, unscented soap may be used externally if tolerated.
2. Vaginal Steaming
Vaginal steaming, sometimes called yoni steaming, has gained popularity through social media and certain wellness spas. It involves sitting over steam produced by hot water and herbs, with claims that the practice cleanses the vagina, balances hormones or improves fertility.
However, there is no reliable scientific evidence that vaginal steaming provides these benefits. Health professionals also warn that exposure to hot steam can cause burns, irritation and discomfort.
Women are therefore advised to avoid vaginal steaming and consult a qualified healthcare professional if they have concerns about vaginal health, fertility or unusual symptoms.
3. Scented Products and Unapproved Substances
Perfumed sprays, intimate deodorants, scented washes and other feminine hygiene products are often advertised as ways to keep the genital area smelling fresh. However, some of these products can irritate sensitive tissues and interfere with the vagina’s natural environment.
The vagina does not need perfume or deodorising products to remain healthy. A mild natural scent is normal and does not necessarily indicate poor hygiene.
If you notice a persistent or unusually strong smell, particularly when accompanied by itching, pain or unusual discharge, it is better to seek medical advice than to use scented products to mask the symptoms.
Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline)
Some people use petroleum jelly as a lubricant during sexual activity. However, it is generally not recommended for use inside the vagina, particularly as a routine lubricant.
Petroleum jelly is oil-based and can be difficult to remove. Some evidence suggests that vaginal use of petroleum jelly may be associated with an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis. Oil-based products can also weaken latex condoms, increasing the risk of condom breakage.
For sexual lubrication, water-based or silicone-based products designed for intimate use are generally preferable, especially when using latex condoms.
How Can Women Keep Their Vaginas Healthy?
Maintaining vaginal health does not require expensive products or complicated cleaning routines. The body’s natural cleaning system does much of the work.
Health professionals generally recommend the following practices:
* Practise gentle hygiene: Wash the external genital area with warm water and avoid unnecessary internal cleansing.
* Wear breathable underwear: Cotton underwear can help reduce trapped moisture and discomfort.
* Practise safer sex: Use appropriate protection to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
* Avoid unnecessary intimate products: Steer clear of irritating substances, vaginal perfumes and unproven home remedies.
* Seek medical advice when necessary: Persistent itching, pain, unusual discharge or a strong, unfamiliar odour should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Ultimately, keeping the vagina healthy is more about protecting its natural balance than trying to make it smell or feel a particular way. If unusual symptoms develop, seeking proper medical care is safer than experimenting with home remedies or products that may cause further irritation.