As an OB-GYN, I have seen countless cases of women experiencing vulvar hygiene issues. A lot of the time, it is due to poor hygiene practices. The vulva is a sensitive and vital part of a woman’s body. Practice good hygiene to maintain your health!
For optimal vulvar hygiene, keep it simple
When it comes to vulvar hygiene, less is more. One of the most common mistakes women make is using harsh soaps and scrubs to clean the area. These products can strip the natural oils and cause irritation. Instead, stick to mild, unscented soap and water. Avoid using hot water, as it can strip away natural oils and cause dryness. Minimizing irritants touching the vulva (all that is external) is key. This means, yes, you guessed it – get rid of the panty liners. Don’t get me wrong, I’m guilty as much as the next gal. Sometimes those little handy pocket squares help keep your underwear clean. We all get it mid-cycle during ovulation when your cervical mucus thickens. Or, for the time after your period when you aren’t sure you are completely done. Maybe you’ve had a few kids and have to squeeze tight every time you cough/laugh/sneeze and (gasp) follow sex. Some of these times are understandable. BUT, panty liners are a vast source of irritation. Here’s why.
- First, the plastic adhesive backing is not breathable. All that moisture is trapped against your delicate parts, causing more irritation.
- Second, normal vaginal discharge is a mechanism of the vagina. If you trap that natural discharge against what it’s trying to get out of, your body thinks it needs to shed more. The discharge increases, you wear more panty liners, and it becomes a vicious cycle. If you get rid of the liners and let things breathe, your natural discharge decreases over time.
- Finally, if you must wear one, please DO NOT wear ones that are scented or have any plasticky mesh covering. This is asking for a nasty rash.
Change your underwear daily
Wearing the same underwear for over a day can lead to bacteria and sweat buildup. This can cause infections and odor. Make sure to change your underwear daily and choose breathable fabrics like cotton. The best thing to do is wear all-white cotton underwear. You can even try wearing no underwear at night. If you must wear a liner, again, as mentioned above – pick an unscented one with a more cottony pad and change it frequently.
Practice safe sex
Sexually transmitted infections can cause various vulvar issues. Some of these issues include itching, burning, and irritation. Protect yourself by using condoms and getting regular STI screenings. Unprotected sexual contact can introduce bacteria and other pathogens to the delicate tissues of the vulva, leading to infections such as vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and even yeast infections.
Ditch the douche
Douching is unnecessary for vaginal health and can do more harm than good. Douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, causing infections. If you are experiencing vaginal odor or discharge, talk to your doctor instead of using a douche.
Take care during your period
Changing your tampon or pad every 4-6 hours is essential to prevent bacterial growth. Choose fragrance-free menstrual products as scented tampons or pads can cause irritation.
Maintaining good vulvar hygiene is essential for health and wellness. By following these simple tips, you can keep your vulva healthy. Remember, if you are experiencing vulvar issues, don’t hesitate to talk to your OB-GYN. We are here to help you stay healthy and happy.