How To Clean Your Vagina - Importance And Tips

Remember the last time you sat down with your female friends and family members to have a healthy discussion regarding intimate hygiene? If you can't, it's high time you addressed this crucial health issue rather than sidelining it as a taboo topic. Vagina, also known as the birth canal, helps connect the vulva to the cervix. It is essential to focus on keeping the vagina healthy as it can affect your reproductive tract and sexual health. Most women often are misinformed regarding vaginal hygiene tips. In order to spread awareness regarding genital hygiene, here are a few tips on how to properly clean your vagina. 

Why is Vaginal Hygiene Important?

The vagina creates a barrier between the external environment and your body. When not maintained hygienically, it can lead to infections. pH around the vagina usually tends to stay on the acidic side. But if not cleaned properly, this pH imbalance can result in rashes or infections. The good bacteria in the region are essential to keep the bad bacteria out. 

Vaginal Hygiene Tips:

Change sanitary pads every 4-6 hours:

During the menstrual cycle, you need to pay more attention to vaginal health. Sanitary napkins or tampons should be changed regularly, most probably between the 4-6 hour duration. On heavy flow days, you are advised to change the pad every 3-4 hours. Keeping the same pad for longer than that can lead to rashes or bad odour. In some cases, it might also lead to infections. 
 

• Wash your lady bits regularly:

Needless to say, washing your vagina in the correct manner is paramount to overall feminine hygiene. Your vagina is a self-cleaning part that does not require any extra soaps or solutions. If you are looking for a proper way to clean vagina, using an intimate wash is an ideal solution. Pay attention to cleaning the skin around the vulva while you are in the shower. Avoid using any scented products as they might disturb the pH balance. During your periods, washing more than once is helpful.
 

• Visit the loo post intercourse:

You must ensure a trip to the bathroom post sexual intercourse. Due to the presence of bodily fluids and condom particles, it becomes essential to wash your vagina with water to get rid of all external secretions. Sometimes, the bacteria might also reach your urethra. This is why it is mandatory to urinate to flush out all the toxins, thus avoiding any chance of urinary tract infections (UTIs). If you are thinking about how to properly wash your vagina after sex, just use some warm water or an intimate wash. 

• Follow the correct washing direction:

When you are washing the vulva, just gently wipe across the skin folds using a soft and clean washcloth or your hands. Ensure that you are not letting any water or any other external product inside the vagina. However, it is important to follow the right cleaning direction in order to prevent bacteria transfer. Always wipe the intimate area from front to the back. This way, bacteria from your anus won't spread to the vagina. 
 

•  Use protection during sex:

To avoid the spread of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) like HIV, gonorrhoea, genital warts, genital herpes, chlamydia, syphilis etc., always use protection during sex. Condoms can help prevent any unwanted vaginal infections as well. However, it is vital to note that the condom's material does not cause any allergy or infection. 
 

•  Go for cervical screening:

Cervical screening is essential for women in the age group of 25 to 64. It is necessary to avoid any cervix related complications from progressing. 
 

• Keep the undergarments dry:

After you pee, make sure to wipe the genital area with a washcloth or toilet paper. This will help in keeping your underwear dry, thus preventing the risk of any vaginal infections or bad odour. Also, avoid using talcum powder as it might result in itchiness instead use panty liners. 

• Avoid Shaving:

If you are planning to shave pubic hair, know that it basically acts as a barrier between the external environment and the vulva. Shaving your pubic hair might result in vaginal infections and unwanted injuries. Any minor cut or nick is enough to bring in unwanted bacteria. Avoid any hair removal creams or chemical-laden products as they might harm the sensitive skin around your vulva.

• Focus on the right clothing:

Clothing also majorly impacts your vaginal health. It is recommended to use underwears that are made of soft, breathable fabrics. Also, avoid wearing any tight-fitting clothes for longer durations. This is to promote air circulation in the vaginal region. Wearing spandex, bodysuits or leather pants for a long time can result in sweating. The moisture can result in the growth of bacteria or yeast. If you are going for a workout or facing heavy discharge, change your underwear to avoid dampness. 

As a society, we do not pay enough attention to one of the most aspect parts of a female body i.e. vaginal health. Usually, the topic is considered rude, embarrassing or taboo and is left undiscussed. However, ignoring facts about feminine hygiene can result in complications like rashes, vaginal infections, bad odours etc. Mostly it's important to keep your vagina clean during periods too. Here are a few tips on how to use sanitary pads, to avoid smell or irritation.

Read more:
- A complete guide to maintain Personal Hygiene