VAGINA CARE

The vagina is a very sensitive part of the female body and deserves appropriate attention and the right kind of care. Here are some quick facts you should know about the vagina.

DO YOU KNOW?

1.       What we refer to as the vagina (birth canal) is actually located inside,it is the part that is not seen from the outside, the part that we see outside is known as the vulva.

2.       The vagina has its own pH. of 3.5-4.5, which must always be maintained to keep healthy.

3.       The vagina practically cleans itself by secreting fluids (vagina discharge), which could be very little at normal times of the month and can increase during ovulation. This discharge is normally odorless and colorless.

Let’s look at the do's and don’ts of vaginal care

Do keep your vagina clean:  since the vagina cleans itself, water alone is enough as an additional way to clean the vagina. The use of soaps, whether bar or liquid, is unnecessary and could even be damaging. Washing with soap can cause irritation and can alter the normal pH,leading to infections.

1.     

                    Don’t make use of special soaps: Special soaps or sprays that claim to tighten or improve the smell of the vagina can actually do more harm than good. The long term effects of this products could be quite adverse, they could irritate or even cause burns in the vagina. This soaps will only destroy the helpful bacteria that prevents infections and alter the normal pH. of the vagina. This can lead to infections.

2.             Do not douche: Douching is a method of washing out the vagina, either by flushing or pouring in excess water or other substances. Most women do this to get rid of unpleasant odors, wash away menstrual blood, and avoid sexually transmitted diseases or to avoid pregnancy after sexual intercourse. Doctors and health experts actually confirm that douching is not effective against any of the above. They say it can actually increase the risk of infections and some diseases like bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and cervical cancer.

3.       Do practice good hygiene during menstruation: During your periods, make sure you change tampons and pads often. Tampons and pads should not stay on for more than 8hrs at a time.

4.       Don’t wear too tight clothing: Form fitting clothes like skinny jeans, leggings, tights etc. trap air against the skin and this prevents airflow. This can lead to yeast infections. Make sure you wear loose clothes that breathe well and will allow airflow. Go for loose dresses, skirts more than tights often.

5.       Do practice good toilet hygiene: When making use of public toilets, endeavor to cover the seats with tissue before sitting, to avoid infections. After peeing, always wipe with tissue, this will prevent urine from dropping on your pant and causing odor, make it a habit to keep a little roll of tissue in your purse or bag. Also, when cleaning with tissue after defecating, wipe from front to back to prevent feces from coming in contact with the vagina.

6.       Do wear cotton underwear: Cotton material allows free air flow and is the most appropriate material for underwear. Other fabric like nylon, silk, lace etc., do not breathe so well and if you must wear any of these, make sure the section that touches the vagina is made of cotton

7.       Do not wear wet clothes/underwear: Wet clothes/underwear create a good atmosphere for bacteria to grow, which can lead to infections.Avoid them.

8.       Do eat well: Plenty of fluids and a balanced diet help to maintain a healthy body and a healthy vagina. Fruits, garlic, yogurt has been found to be particularly good for the vagina health.

If you do notice any strange odors, abnormal discharges, discomfort or pain in the vagina, please visit a hospital for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.Do not use homemade techniques or get advice from non-medical personnel.

The vagina is no doubt one of the most important parts of the female body,it requires your care and attention.

STAY HEALTHY,STAY SAFE.