The vagina is a sensitive area, and keeping it healthy should be a concern for all women. There is a delicate balance of healthy bacteria in the vagina, and these levels can be easily disrupted. It is also normal for there to be a small amount of discharge which helps to keep the vaginal area clean and free from harmful bacteria. When the PH level in the vaginal area is disrupted, many women experience irritation, burning, and even an infection. Here are some tips for woman to follow that will help them keep their vaginas healthy and the PH level balanced.
Hygiene Rules for a Healthy Vagina
These simple tips can help your vaginal area stay healthy, so you can enjoy a satisfying and pleasurable sex life. Any woman who experiences any irritation or pain in her vaginal area should speak with her health care provider immediately to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
1. Try to Refrain from Douching.
Many women grew up hearing that it was necessary to douche to avoid feminine vaginal odor and to keep their areas clean. The harsh chemicals and perfumes in many of the available douches can actually upset the delicate PH balance and cause vaginal irritation and even odor. Instead of trying to mask vaginal odor with a scented douche, white or apple cider vinegar can be used to cleanse the vaginal area without upsetting the PH balance or harming the beneficial bacteria.
2. Eating Healthy is Important.
What a woman eats is not only important for her appearance and weight, but it can also affect the health of her vagina. Many researchers recommend adding yogurt to the diet to help promote the growth of health bacteria. Drinking plenty of water can also help to flush harmful toxins out of the body that could cause vaginal problems. Some women have also found that cranberries can also improve vaginal health along with soy products.
3. Always Practice Safe Sex.
Sexually transmitted diseases are a common and preventable problem that can cause a woman to experience pain, discomfort, and irritation in her vaginal area. While some sexually transmitted diseases can be treated with antibiotics, there is no cure for HIV or genital herpes. Simply wearing a condom can prevent the transfer of STDs. It is also important to remember to change condoms during intercourse if both anal and vaginal penetration is performed. Bacteria located in the anus can cause problems with the vaginal PH levels.
4. Treat Infections as Soon as They Appear.
Almost all women will experience a yeast or bacterial infection in their vaginal area at least once in their lives. These infections can occur without exposure to a sexually transmitted disease and can be caused by a number of different factors. These infections can normally be cleared up with an anti-biotic or anti-fungal ointment and should be treated by a health care professional.
5. Lubrication is Important.
Not only is vaginal dryness uncomfortable during intercourse for a woman, it can also be painful for her partner. For occasional cases of vaginal dryness, a lubricant or lotion can be topically applied. This can help to prevent irritation and tearing on the vaginal lining that can result in a painful infection. One thing to remember is to avoid greasy or oil based lubricating products, since they can harm the beneficial bacteria in the vagina.
6. Clothing Can Cause Vaginal Problems.
Yeast and some bacterial infections can be caused by wearing tight clothing. Clothing the does not let air flow around the vagina, can cause the harmful bacteria to grow. To keep this area cool and moist, women should try to wear loosely fitting cotton underwear and avoid synthetic fabrics. It is also important to not wear damp swimsuits or spandex workout clothing for long periods of time.
7. Hygiene is Always Important.
The best way to keep your vagina healthy is to follow basic hygiene rules. Always wash gently with warm water, and avoid harsh chemicals or fragrances. Always change sanitary pads and tampons regularly, and avoid wiping towards the vagina after a bowel movement.
Conclusion
Having a healthy vagina can improve every aspect of a woman’s life, from her sexual experiences to her everyday mood. By following these simple rules, and visiting a health professional regularly, women can have the pleasure of having a healthy vagina. If any problems do develop a health care provider should be immediately consulted.
