Good intimate feminine hygiene is essential to keep the vaginal area in good condition and the intimate pH regulated, which will help all the microorganisms that inhabit the vaginal flora to be in balance. In this way, we help prevent vaginal infections and possible discomfort such as dryness or irritation.
Next, we share with you some recommendations to achieve adequate intimate hygiene.
Wash your genital area every day
Wash the external vaginal area with water and a suitable soap for the intimate area, also do not forget to also clean the anal area properly.
There are several options when choosing proactive vaginal care products. For example, you can opt for the Durex Intima Protect range, developed for the delicate intimate area, with products that help balance the vaginal pH to provide the care that this area needs.
In this range you will find two specific products for intimate hygiene, the Refreshing Intimate Gel and the Soothing Intimate Gel, which help to soothe discomfort and bad odor caused by loss of balance.
It is also important to rinse soap residue well with plenty of water, since if they remain on the skin they can irritate it. Cleaning the genital area has to be daily, but in a moderate way, an excess of hygiene can also alter the natural protection of the vagina and favor the appearance of discomfort.
Finally, it is recommended to avoid using sponges in the area, it is better that you always do hygiene with your hands, making sure that they are very clean.
Avoid douching
It is advisable to avoid douching in which the inside of the vagina is irrigated with water and some soap or solution, unless the doctor has recommended it. This type of practice can eliminate the beneficial bacteria inside the vagina, upsetting its natural balance and giving rise to problems such as bacterial vaginosis or vaginal yeast infection.
Intimate feminine hygiene consists of cleaning the external genitalia, but without eliminating the flora of the vagina, which is made up of beneficial organisms to maintain its health.
Don’t forget to dry yourself well
Dry yourself very well after the shower with a soft towel, wipe it gently and do not rub. It is recommended that the towel is for personal use and that you do not share it with anyone else.
The step of drying the genitals well is important because the humidity in the area can favor the multiplication of organisms such as fungi, which can cause infections such as candidiasis.
Choose special products for your intimate area
As we have explained previously, it is recommended to use specific soaps and gels for women’s intimate hygiene, which will help you keep the vaginal pH balanced. This part of your body is very delicate and could lose its natural protection.
Also, keep in mind that deodorants or other products are not recommended, such as toilet paper or compresses with perfumes, alcohols or ingredients that may be aggressive.
Clean yourself properly after going to the toilet
Whenever you go to the bathroom, clean yourself from front to back, so you avoid transferring germs that can cause infections from the anal to the vaginal area. Bearing this fact in mind, it is also convenient not to abuse the use of thongs.
Wash your hands before and after using the toilet and if instead of toilet paper you prefer to clean your vagina with wipes that are specific for this area. This is the case of Durex Intima Protect 2-in-1 Wipes, which refresh the area and soothe discomfort wherever you are.
Wear cotton underwear preferably
The most appropriate underwear is cotton, since they allow perspiration, thus reducing humidity in the genital area. Humidity and heat encourage the growth of fungi, for this same reason, try that the clothes in contact with the area are not very tight.
Change your underwear every day and whenever you notice it damp, for example, after playing sports with intensity. Wash these items with mild soaps, making sure that they have been rinsed well and that there is no soap residue left on them.
Practice safe sex
Wash your intimate area before and after having sex to reduce the risk of contracting infections such as bacterial vaginosis. Remember to use condoms whenever you have sex, especially if it is casual, because in addition to protecting you against an unwanted pregnancy, they prevent infections and sexually transmitted diseases.
Take care of hygiene when you have your period
During your period, change your pads or tampons frequently and don’t leave them in for more than 4-6 hours at a time. It is also important not to sleep with tampons, as this habit can favor the appearance of intimate infections. If you prefer the menstrual cup, you also have to empty it frequently.
Follow a healthy diet and avoid self-medicating
Regular consumption of probiotics, such as those found in natural yogurts or pickles, helps maintain a healthy vaginal flora.
On the other hand, never take medications unless a doctor has prescribed them, in this way you will avoid abusing medications that could alter your vaginal pH, such as antibiotics.
Consult your gynecologist for any discomfort
Finally, if you maintain proper intimate hygiene but feel itchy, burning, the area is red or inflamed, it hurts when you urinate or when you have sex, or the discharge has a different odor or color than usual, go to the gynecologist.
These discomforts may be due to an infection and it is necessary to consult a doctor.
