Intimate hygiene is a topic that raises many emotions and questions. Many women do not fully know how to properly care for their intimate areas, and myths and misinformation only compound the problem. In this article, we’ll break down the most popular myths about intimate hygiene and give you tips on how to take care of your health and comfort.
The vagina cleans itself – FACT
The vagina is an amazing organ that has natural self-cleaning mechanisms. It produces mucus that protects it from infections and bacteria. It also contains “good” bacteria, mainly lactic acid bacilli, which maintain the proper vaginal pH and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms.
What does this mean in practice? You don’t have to overdo intimate hygiene! Washing too often, especially with aggressive products, can disrupt the natural bacterial flora of the vagina and lead to infections.
Water alone is enough to wash the intimate area – FACT and MIT
Water is the foundation of intimate hygiene, but on its own it may not be enough, especially during menstruation, after intercourse or intense exercise.
How to reconcile this?
- Everyday: warm water is sufficient for washing the intimate area.
- In special situations: it’s a good idea to reach for a gentle intimate hygiene lotion with an acidic pH (3.5-5.5), which will support the vagina’s natural defenses.
Remember: Avoid soaps, shower gels and other body cosmetics, as they have an alkaline pH and can irritate the delicate skin of the intimate area.
Vaginal irrigation is a good way to hygiene – MIT
Irrigation, or flushing the vagina with water or special preparations, is a procedure that can do more harm than good. It disrupts the natural bacterial flora of the vagina, flushing out both “good” and “bad” bacteria. This, in turn, increases the risk of intimate infections.
When is irrigation indicated? Only when recommended by a doctor, such as as part of the treatment of an infection.
Washing up should be done from back to front – MIT
The direction of washing is of great importance! Always wash from front to back, that is, from the vagina towards the anus. This way you will avoid transferring fecal bacteria to the urethral and vaginal area, which can lead to infection.
Sanitary pads provide freshness and protect against infections – MIT
Sanitary pads, especially perfumed ones, can irritate the delicate skin of the intimate area and disrupt the natural bacterial flora of the vagina. Wearing pads on a daily basis is not necessary, and may even increase the risk of infection.
When to use insoles? It is a good idea to use sanitary pads at the end of menstruation, in case of heavy discharge or incontinence. Remember to replace them regularly!
Thongs are the main cause of intimate infections – MIT
Wearing thongs by itself does not cause intimate infections. Problems can arise when thongs are made of artificial materials, are too tight, or are worn all the time.
What kind of underwear is best? Choose underwear made of natural, breathable materials, such as cotton. Avoid cuts that are too tight, which can impede airflow and cause chafing.
Depilation of the intimate area increases the risk of infection – MIT and FACT
Epilation itself does not increase the risk of infection, but improperly performed can irritate the skin and create favorable conditions for bacterial growth.
How to depilate the intimate area safely?
- Use sharp tools: blunt razors or knives increase the risk of cuts and irritation.
- Take care of hygiene: thoroughly wash your intimate area before and after epilation.
- Use soothing cosmetics: after epilation, apply a soothing and moisturizing cream or lotion to your skin.
Gynecological probiotics are an unnecessary expense – MIT
Gynecological probiotics contain “good” bacteria that help maintain the balance of the vaginal bacterial flora. They can be used prophylactically, as well as to treat intimate infections.
When is it a good idea to reach for probiotics?
- After antibiotic therapy
- For recurrent intimate infections
- After intercourse
- While traveling
- During menopause
Intimate hygiene in a nutshell – the most important rules:
- Wash the intimate area once or twice a day.
- Use warm water and a gentle intimate hygiene lotion with an acidic pH.
- Wash from front to back.
- Wear airy underwear made of natural materials.
- Avoid vaginal irrigation.
- Take care of hygiene during menstruation.
- Change sanitary pads and tampons regularly.
- If in doubt, consult your gynecologist.
