Each part of our body has its own population of bacteria and fungi. However, our intimate area is more susceptible to attack by microorganisms than other areas. This is why maintaining adequate intimate hygiene is extremely important.
Even though the vagina is designed to stay clean with the help of natural secretions (discharge), taking care of its health on a daily basis remains imperative to help keep it in good shape. But what is the best way to clean the intimate area? And what is its importance? This is what we try to explain in this article.
Difference between vagina and vulva
To carry out correct hygiene, it is important to understand the difference between the vulva and the vagina. The vagina is a muscle inside a woman's body, running from the cervix (the opening of the uterus) to the vaginal opening. The vulva, in turn, comprises the external sexual organs, which surround the vaginal opening (clitoris, clitoral hood and internal and external lips).
Bacteria in the vagina
According to the NHS (UK National Health Service), there are many bacteria inside the vagina and they are there to protect it.
Characteristics of good bacteria inside the vagina:
- They overcome other potentially harmful bacteria that can enter the vagina;
- They help maintain the pH balance of the vagina at an even level, which helps maintain the balance of healthy bacteria;
- They produce a substance that prevents invading bacteria from adhering to the walls of the vagina, preventing them from invading the tissues.
If the pH of the vagina increases (becomes less acidic), the quality or quantity of lactobacilli (beneficial bacteria) may drop and other bacteria may multiply. This can result in infections such as bacterial vaginosis, which can cause symptoms such as irritation and abnormal discharge.
Causes for possible changes in vaginal health:
- It is a poorly ventilated area and in constant contact with discharge, urine, menstruation and sweat;
- It has greater hydration than the rest of the body (greater humidity);
- It is subject to constant friction, making it more susceptible to irritation and infections.
Wash
The vagina cleans itself by natural vaginal secretions, remaining healthy and with the correct pH balance. According to Healthline , washing the vagina can be harmful, as it eliminates the many good and necessary bacteria that live there and that have the function of protecting us against harmful bacteria.
However, although you should not clean yourself inside the vagina, you should wash the vulva daily, also keeping the area between the vagina and anus clean.
Tips for washing the vulva:
- Use simple, unscented soaps, which tend not to affect the healthy balance of bacteria or pH levels in the vagina, avoiding irritation;
- Wash the area with warm water and, if desired, use a neutral soap that does not irritate the skin;
- Open the vaginal lips and gently clean around the folds, using a clean towel or your hands;
- Avoid putting water or soap in the vagina;
- Wash from front to back (cleanse the vulva first and then the anus, to prevent bacteria from passing into the vagina).
Odor
According to Healthline , "no vagina is odorless, nor should it be." Vaginas have many possible odors, which can change depending on diet and menstrual cycle.
If you are concerned about the smell of your vagina, if the smell is unpleasant or if you are using perfumed products to mask your odor, you should consult your doctor as you may have an infection that needs treatment.
Being seen regularly by your gynecologist means that any abnormal changes in the cervix can be identified early and, if necessary, treated to prevent other diseases from developing.
Recommendations for maintaining the health of the vaginal area
- Perform daily intimate hygiene;
- Use a specific cleaning gel;
- Wear loose clothing;
- Wear cotton underwear that allows perspiration.
Cumlaude daily cleansing gel is gentle, has an acidic pH and is ideal for daily hygiene, having protective and sanitizing properties and being specific for women in the fertile period. You can purchase it at Frederica's online store, as well as other intimate health and sexuality products, which could be very useful to you. Get to know them through this link .
Source: Healthline
