Doctor Explains How to Wash Your Vagina & Vulva | Dos & Don'ts | Feminine Hygiene Routine
Dr Simi Adedeji・15 minutes read
Maintain good vaginal hygiene by understanding the difference between the vulva and vagina, washing the vulva with unscented soap and water, avoiding soap inside the vagina, and seeking medical help for any concerning symptoms. Prioritize a healthy vagina over a fragranced one, focusing on gentle washing techniques and consulting a doctor for any issues to ensure early treatment and care.
Insights
- Understanding the distinction between the vulva and vagina is crucial for proper hygiene practices: the vagina is self-cleaning, while the vulva requires gentle washing with unscented soap and water to maintain cleanliness.
- Prioritizing vaginal health by seeking medical attention for any concerning symptoms is essential, as early visits to address issues like dryness, irritation, abnormal discharge, or pain during sex can lead to timely treatment and prevent more severe conditions from developing.
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Recent questions
How should I clean the vulva and vagina?
Proper hygiene involves washing the vulva with unscented soap and water, while the vagina is self-cleaning and should not be washed internally. Use lukewarm water to avoid dryness, focusing on specific areas like the mons pubis, outer and inner lips, clitoris, and clitoral hood. Rinse with water, pat dry, and consider moisturizing if necessary.
What soap should I use for washing the vulva?
Various soap options are available, including those with moisturizers or gentle surfactants. It is recommended to use unscented soap to wash the vulva, ensuring it is gentle and does not cause irritation. Choose a soap that is specifically formulated for sensitive areas to maintain proper hygiene.
How often should I wash my vulva and vagina?
The frequency of washing the vulva and vagina varies for each individual. While the vagina is self-cleaning and does not require washing internally, the vulva should be washed regularly with unscented soap and water. It is essential to maintain proper hygiene, but overwashing can disrupt the natural balance of the vaginal flora. Listen to your body and adjust your washing routine accordingly.
Are there any risks associated with douching?
Douching poses risks to vaginal health as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to infections and irritation. It is not recommended to douche as it can cause more harm than good. The vagina is self-cleaning and does not require additional cleansing methods like douching. Stick to gentle washing with unscented soap and water to maintain proper hygiene.
When should I seek medical help regarding vaginal health?
It is crucial to prioritize vaginal health and seek medical help if you experience symptoms such as excessive dryness, irritation, itching, abnormal discharge, pain during sex, burning/stinging while urinating, blisters/warts/lumps on the vulva, bleeding between periods, or early menopause symptoms. Do not let embarrassment hinder seeking necessary assistance, as doctors prefer early visits for treatable conditions. If you have any concerns about your vaginal health, consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
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Summary
00:00
Proper Hygiene for Vulva and Vagina
- Dr. Simi, a former surgeon and current GP, discusses the importance of understanding the difference between the vulva and vagina.
- The vagina is an internal organ, while the vulva comprises all external genitalia.
- The vagina is self-cleaning through vaginal secretions and an acidic pH, making cleaning unnecessary.
- The vulva, however, should be washed with unscented soap and water to maintain hygiene.
- Lukewarm water is recommended to avoid stripping natural oils and causing dryness.
- Various soap options exist, including those with moisturizers or gentle surfactants.
- Washing should be gentle, focusing on specific areas like the mons pubis, outer and inner lips, clitoris, and clitoral hood.
- Avoid putting soap inside the vagina to prevent irritation and infections.
- Rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry, and consider moisturizing if needed.
- Frequently asked questions address washing frequency, the use of wipes, showering techniques, douching risks, and vaginal deodorants.
12:51
"Prioritize vaginal health for overall wellness"
- Focus on vaginal health to prioritize a healthy vagina over a fragranced one; see a doctor for excessive dryness, irritation, itching, abnormal discharge, pain during sex, burning/stinging while urinating, blisters/warts/lumps on the vulva, bleeding between periods, early menopause symptoms; don't hesitate to seek medical help for reassurance, as doctors prefer early visits for treatable conditions and don't let embarrassment hinder seeking necessary assistance.
