The topic of women's care for the intimate area still remains in the shadows for many. The historical taboo on discussing sensitive women's issues has left its mark.
We are used to solving many important problems related to women’s health “on the sly,” without exposing them to the public or bringing them up for discussion.
But why does this topic cause many people to blush and feel uncomfortable in front of others, since in the balance lies one’s own health, which is much more important than groundless shame?!
Historically…
In ancient times, menstruation was considered almost a sign of the presence of evil spirits.
- The ancient Greeks believed that the gaze of a woman who was menstruating was similar to the gaze of the Gorgon Medusa and could turn flesh into stone.
- Buddhists believed that during this period a woman should not cook food or touch her husband.
- And in Nepal, menstruating girls and women were isolated from society in separate huts until they were completely “purified”; this ritual was called “chhaupadi” and was banned only in 2005, however, some still practice it.
Even in medical reference books, for many years, conversations about the female body and internal processes were obscured, as the authors were afraid of excessive “debauchery.”
For 4 thousand years, people of various religions and cultures left virtually no information about monthly cycles and their characteristics.
Now this topic is becoming more open. So let's talk about it frankly!
You need to wash your vulva, but there's a chance you're doing it wrong
While the vagina cleans itself, the vulva—the outer part of the genitals, including the labia—needs to be washed.
The folds of the vulva can contain bacteria and smegma - an accumulation of sebum and dead epithelial cells. This needs to be washed off, but you're probably being overzealous when all you need is your hands and a little soap. There is also no need to vigorously rub with a washcloth. If you don't have soap, plain water will do just fine.
Soap that is too scented can cause irritation or an allergic reaction to the vulva.
“We're talking about the most sensitive tissue in the body, so the less perfume and chemicals, the better,” says Dr. Minkin.
Experts recommend using a mild, unscented soap; plain glycerin or castile soap (olive oil based) will also work.
In addition, it is not necessary to wash your vulva with soap every day. "Over-cleaning can compromise the skin's protective layer," says Dr. Dweck. Even if you shower twice a day or feel the need to cleanse yourself after sex, still try to use soap only once.
And then there is no need to vigorously rub the genital area with a towel - this is too rough for such a delicate fabric. It is enough to gently pat the surface with a clean towel.
Female microflora
As always, let's start with the main thing - with the structure of our body.
The microflora of the female intimate zone consists mainly of lactobacilli
(there are about 80 species), which play an important role in protection against pathogenic organisms.
The mucous membrane 10 times
more absorbent than other areas of the skin - through it harmful substances can penetrate the body and enter the blood much faster.
The acid-base balance of mucous microflora differs from the skin balance (5.5) and ranges from 3.3 to 5.2 pH units. It is very important to maintain its condition within these values.
and prevent the invasion of alkali coming from various hygiene products (soap, shower gel, etc.).
When the pH in the intimate area changes, lactobacilli die, and harmful microorganisms, on the contrary, activate “attack mode,” which contributes to the development of dysbiosis, itching, discomfort, odor, and the list goes on.
The vagina is a perfectly balanced system
“Over millions of years, this part of the body has developed its own highly efficient cleaning process,” British consultant gynecologist Dr. Austin Ugwumadu tells The Daily Mail.
American gynecologist Dr. Alyssa Dweck confirms: “The vagina is an incredible self-cleaning environment. She has her own ways of maintaining an acidic pH to prevent infections.”
Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, a professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at the Yale School of Medicine, advises simply leaving the vagina alone: "Your actions may upset the pH balance or destroy the natural bacterial flora in the vagina, which is essential for health."
Let us clarify that the vagina is an acidic environment with a pH level ranging from 3.8 to 4.4. Intimate hygiene products are divided into highly acidic (pH about 3.5) and neutral (pH about 5).
Candidate of Medical Sciences Tatyana Rumyantseva wrote: “There is one study that shows that an acidic pH gel in combination with standard treatment for bacterial vaginosis helps reduce the number of relapses. But far-reaching conclusions can never be drawn based on the results of one study. Even if we believe these data, such gels are only needed by women with recurrent bacterial vaginosis.”
Using intimate hygiene products with a neutral pH makes no sense in principle.
Rumyantseva says about them: “They should bring neither harm nor benefit to intimate health. There is no evidence to the contrary."
And most likely, such a product costs several times more than the usual shower gel or soap that suits you. Rumyantseva adds that “there are now enough neutral pH gels on the market for the whole body that can be used to wash the whole body, rather than in parts.”
How to care for your intimate area?
Regular water treatments
Daily shower for the intimate area - at least once a day
, and during menstruation 2 to 4 times a day, ideally after each change of pad, tampon or cup. During sexual activity, it is recommended to shower before and after sexual intercourse. If you are traveling or simply do not have the opportunity to take a full shower, you can use wet wipes for your intimate area.
Using delicate detergents for intimate hygiene
there is no need to use special means for washing the external genitalia.
, since all the secretions accumulated during the day are themselves perfectly cleaned with ordinary running warm water (+37 C').
But many of us lack extra care, especially during menstruation. In this case, it is necessary to select only special products intended for such procedures with a certain pH value (from 3.3 to 5.2) in order to avoid the proliferation of unpleasant pathogenic bacteria and fungi in the microflora, as well as the appearance of dryness and discomfort.
Avoid in intimate hygiene products:
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (aggressive surfactants)
- PEG (increases skin permeability)
- Dimethicone, Amodimethicone
- Methylisothiazolinone (critical preservative, allergen)
- Flavors
- Parabens
- Synthetic fragrances
- DMDM hydantoin
- Dyes D&C Red #33, Ext D&C Violet #2 and FD&C Yellow #5
Washcloths away!
This “tool” is a real testing ground for microbes, which, as a “bonus,” can also injure the most delicate skin mucosa.
Front-to-back technique
Any manipulations when wiping intimate places after the toilet, shower or directly during water procedures should have certain movements in the direction from the pubis to the perineum and anal area. For what? So as not to bring unexpected “guests” from the rectum into the urethra or vagina and not provoke unnecessary troubles.
Individual towel for intimate areas
The intimate area requires a separate towel just like the face, so don’t be lazy to get one, don’t forget to wash it regularly (every 2-3 days) and remember that each family member should have their own personal towel! When wiping, carefully blot the delicate area and avoid rubbing movements so as not to injure the mucous membrane. Paper towels are also suitable for hygiene procedures.
Breathable underwear
- Underwear should allow air to pass through and not restrict its circulation. Synthetic underwear can irritate the skin, so it is advisable to give preference to options made from natural fabric
. - You need to change your underwear every day
. - It is best to wash separately from other items and use hypoallergenic powders
. - New underwear
purchased from a store must
be washed before use
.
Leave the thong in the ring
Yes, revealing lingerie is sexy and disarming, but it is not at all harmless. This type of panties, due to the peculiarities of their cut, promotes rubbing and movement of intestinal flora into the neighboring microflora of the vaginal area, which can provoke inflammatory processes in the uterus, appendages and bladder. Therefore, it is advisable not to use thongs for constant wear, but to leave them only for special occasions...
Shower or bath? Shower first!
During water hygiene procedures, it is better to give preference to washing in the shower, since taking baths can contribute to the spread of various infections and diseases (vaginosis, E. coli, cystitis, etc.). This does not mean that you need to give up baths completely! You just need to prepare for it (in short, wash).
Choice of clothes
When choosing underwear, give preference to loose models made from natural fabrics
. Try not to wear tight-fitting jeans or underwear, as the fabric can injure the external genitalia and also become a breeding ground for bacteria. Always change sweat-soaked underwear after exercising or strenuous physical activity. Even if it has dried, bacteria and fungi still continue to multiply in the tissue, which can easily penetrate the urinary and genital tract. In addition, sweat and dirt can clog the pores of the skin in the pubic and genital area and lead to infection of the hair follicles and the appearance of pustules.
Intimate hygiene gel - to use or not
Gynecologists have different opinions. There are both supporters and opponents of these intimate hygiene products. Some do not recommend it because they do not see the benefits of using water and mild detergents.
Regardless of the opinion of doctors, every woman needs to know that for intimate hygiene it is better to use products with a pH of 5.5 containing lactic acid.
Gel for intimate hygiene should:
- Wash and refresh;
- Maintain acid balance pH (3.8-4.2);
- Protect the natural microflora of intimate areas and vagina.
It is advisable to moisturize and relieve irritation.
When purchasing, it is better to choose a gel with:
- Antibacterial;
- Fungicidal;
- Anti-inflammatory;
- Regenerating
effect.
The product may contain:
- Chamomile;
- Calendula;
- Oak bark;
- Plantain;
- Aloe;
- Thyme;
- Green tea.
In case of disease symptoms, it may be necessary to use a liquid or emulsion with a lower pH of 2.5.
Moisturize the mucous membrane and relieve irritation:
- Allantoin;
- Lanolin;
- Vegetable oils;
- Glycerol;
- Hyaluronic acid.
Intimate hygiene gel should not contain:
- Dyes;
- Flavors;
- SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate);
- Parabens;
- Formaldehyde derivatives.
SLS is a strong cleanser that dries and irritates the skin.
Parabens, formaldehyde derivatives.
Vaginal douching - when you can overdo it
This method of treating the vagina is chosen by women who pay extreme attention to personal hygiene. In fact, douching, if not prescribed by a gynecologist, is not a very good idea, leading to dire consequences.
- Even clean water washing the mucous membrane disrupts the optimal pH level and washes away the protective layer containing colonies of beneficial bacteria and substances that provide local immunity. As a result, hyperemia of the genital tract occurs. All this increases the likelihood of developing intimate infections.
- The mucous membrane dries out, so during sexual intercourse abrasions form on it - a direct gateway to infection.
- Frequent vaginal irrigation flushes out the normal bacterial flora. To eliminate dysbiosis, you will have to use expensive oral or vaginal probiotics for a long time.
Optimal pH level
In case of vaginal irrigation, there is a risk of infection of both the vagina and the pelvic organs located above. Pathogens that multiply in place of beneficial bacteria easily penetrate through the cervical canal into the uterus and appendages, causing inflammation.
Inflammatory processes lead to the formation of adhesions and narrowing of the fallopian tubes, which subsequently creates problems with pregnancy.
Anti-rules: 9 things that should not be done during intimate hygiene
- There is no need to get carried away with maintaining sterile cleanliness in the intimate area. The vagina is one of the self-cleaning organs; its acidic environment itself does not allow some bacteria to pass through, and unnecessary substances come out with secretions.
Many delicate problems and gynecological diseases are the consequences of poor intimate hygiene. The benefits of GINOCOMFORT washing gel with regular use are obvious: even during menstruation, you will be confident in the feeling of freshness throughout the day, and will also protect yourself from itching and burning at undesirable times.
Sources:
- NEW OPPORTUNITIES IN THE THERAPY OF VULVA AND VAGINA PATHOLOGY. Ignatovsky A.V., Sokolovsky E.V. // Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. – 2009. – No. 1. – pp. 56-59.
Microbiocenosis of the vagina of modern practically healthy women of young reproductive age. V.S. Orlova, Yu.I. Naberezhnev, I.V. Budnik // Scientific bulletins. - 2008. - No. 6 (46). pp. 27-35.
Enterosgel reduces the concentration of intestinal endotoxin in the general bloodstream of “conditionally healthy people”. I.A. Anikhovskaya, D.Z. Zakirova, E.A. Chernikova et al. // Russian Journal of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Coloproctology. - 2007. - T. 17, No. 1. Appendix No. 29. Materials of the 12th Russian conference “Hepatology today”. — P. 72.
Bacterial vaginosis: clinical features, diagnosis and treatment. A.S. Ankirskaya, V.N. Prilepskaya, G.R. Bayramova and others // Russian Medical Journal. - 1998. No. 6 (5). — pp. 276-282.
Caring for the deep bikini area after sugaring
During sugaring, hair is removed along with the bulb. The sugar mass touches the surface of the skin and, when torn off, can disrupt the integrity of the upper layer of the epidermis. It is necessary to simultaneously follow the conditions of the correct depilation technique and know how to care for the delicate intimate area.
For several hours after the procedure, the skin will be slightly reddish, do not worry, this reaction of the dermis will disappear on its own. Severe damage to the epidermis is very rare for this method of depilation of the bikini area, but if they occur, it is necessary to treat the inflamed area with chlorhexidine or any antibacterial drug.
Skin care after depilation and contraindications after the procedure:
- 2 hours after depilation, it is advisable to use a cream with a moisturizing effect on the skin (it is best if it is a baby cream or lotion with a natural composition and containing chamomile and panthenol). Caring for the deep sugaring area must be done after each session, only increasing the time between the use of creams. Cosmetics containing alcohol are prohibited.
- It is advisable to wear cotton underwear.
- The first day after the procedure, do not touch the treated area with your hands.
- Also, hot water baths, sunbathing, swimming in ponds, swimming pools, and visiting the sauna are prohibited for 3 days.
- After 5 days, it is advisable to scrub the skin.
What to do if there is inflammation and redness?
It happens that the pores become inflamed. This is accompanied by the appearance of redness on the surface of the skin, sometimes purulent rashes. It is important to promptly treat such areas several times during the day with antibacterial agents (such as levomekol, tetracycline, miramistin).
It is allowed to treat the skin with decoctions of medicinal herbs (chamomile, oak bark, sage).
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Conclusion
So, here's what to remember:
- The vagina cleans itself.
- Douching does more harm than good.
- The vulva should be washed no more than once a day with plain water or unscented soap.
- Do not overuse bath bombs or other products with fragrances or dyes.
- Discharge is normal. Follow their changes.
- The natural smell of the vagina is also normal, there is no need to spray it with sprays. Watch for changes in smell.
- Wear comfortable underwear.
- Do not use scented pads or tampons.
- Periodically check your vulva and surrounding skin for new moles or bleeding areas.
Hygiene and sex
It is necessary to take a communal shower and thoroughly wash the penis, perineum and anus before and after sex. Teenagers, given their shyness, need to be informed about the rules of hygiene after wet dreams and masturbation.
All these medical details are given solely for one purpose - to show the need to observe hygienic rules.
Andrey Selivanov, Ph.D., Associate Professor of the Department of Surgical Diseases of the REAVIZ Medical Institute, urologist-andrologist at City Clinical Hospital No. 31 of St. Petersburg.
