1. Scented or fragrance pads or tampons

There are so many vaginal products on the market – these are three vaginal products to avoid. First, I would never use any scented or fragrance pads or tampons. And yes, this includes essential oils. Essential oils are just like any other scent – they are a contact irritant so it can be irritating to the skin, especially the delicate holes of our skin. Do not do it. And don’t forget to check product labels. I have seen some products labeled as “sensitive” that still have essential oils in them. That is a no go for me. 

What is “fragrance” and why should I avoid it? 

The term “fragrance” in consumer products is concerning because of the potential inclusion of undisclosed chemicals. Fragrances are often considered trade secrets, so companies are not required to disclose the specific ingredients used to create them. This lack of transparency can make it difficult for you to know what you are being exposed to. Some chemicals found in fragrances have been linked to allergies, skin irritation, respiratory issues, and more. Worse, certain synthetic fragrances may contain phthalates, which are chemicals that have raised various health concerns.

2. Wet wipes 

You will never find wet wipes in my bathroom. Because just like you don’t use them on your face because it strips away the natural protective oils that protect your skin and your face, it does the same thing to the vulva. And the vulva is far more sensitive!

So consistently wiping in either that sensitive area of the labia or outside in the hair bearing area, you’re just stripping away the natural oils that protect that skin and keep that skin being healthy. Wet wipes may contain ingredients that can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina, leading to an increased risk of infections such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. Don’t do it! 

What to use instead of wet wipes 

If you must use something down there besides toilet paper, try a bidet. Bidets use water to cleanse, which is gentler on the sensitive skin. A bidet can help prevent irritation, itching, and inflammation. Using a bidet reduces the use of disposable wipes, promoting a more eco-friendly bathroom routine. Tight on cash? While wet wipes need to be purchased regularly, a bidet provides a one-time investment. Better for your wallet and the environment.

3. Boric acid suppositories

And finally boric acid suppositories. Stop using boric acid vaginal suppositories willy nilly, or just because you want to feel fresh or think that it’s rebalancing your pH. It is not. But I’m going to put a caveat on that because it’s not like I would never use boric acid repositories. I just wouldn’t use them like social media tells you to use them. We use boric acid suppositories in very specific situations of recurrent and resistant bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. Such as, a very specific prolonged regimen for the purpose of destroying the overlying biofilm that’s causing those recurrences. We use boric acid to destroy the overlying biofilm that causes recurrences. So we can bring in antibiotics, keep that biofilm away and then allow the normal microbiome to restore itself just using boric acid suppositories here and there as needed. You shouldn’t use them, though because what you think it’s doing is not what it’s doing. 


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