Use a regular, unscented soap instead of a body wash since regular soap has less alcohol content (scent) than body washes. Scented products, such as body washes, can cause itchiness, irritations, and odor.
Use a regular, unscented soap instead of a body wash since regular soap has less alcohol content (scent) than body washes. Scented products, such as body washes, can cause itchiness, irritations, and odor.
Clean at least once a day to get rid of sweat, traces of urine and discharge that accumulates through out the day. Use a washcloth or free hand while cleaning.
Wear cotton underwear instead of thongs. Avoid wearing tight-fit clothing. Change out of wet swimsuits and sweaty workout clothes immediately after you’re done. [4] X Research source
Change pads or tampons every 2-8 hours during your period. When you’re not on your period, avoid wearing pads or panty liners to absorb vaginal discharge. These can lock in moisture, which can promote infection if exposed to bacteria or yeast. If you need to use panty liners, change them regularly.
Always use a condom when having sex, especially if you are not in a monogamous relationship. Make sure to always change condoms when switching from anal or oral sex to vaginal sex. This will help prevent harmful bacteria from entering into the vagina. Use lubricants when having sex. Lube helps prevent the skin of your labia and vagina from becoming irritated. Lubrication occurs naturally but some women don’t produce enough. Using an artificial lube can help prevent friction and irritation. Avoid petroleum jelly or other oil-based products as these can break down the latex in condoms, making them ineffective and can cause infection to the vagina. [7] X Research source You may also want to shower after having sex so you can remove bodily fluids and residue from the condom that may otherwise cause irritation or infection.
During a gynecologic exam, your doctor will take a pap smear that can help diagnose diseases (such as cancer) or disorders that can affect the health of your vagina as well as your reproductive system. [8] X Research source As you reach the ages of 21, your gynecologist will begin cervical screening. These screenings look for changes in the cervix and are used for diagnosing cancer. [9] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Cranberry juice may help treat and prevent yeast infections. [11] X Research source ://simpleorganiclife. org/vagina-health/ Yogurt may help maintain vaginal pH balance. [12] X Research source ://simpleorganiclife. org/vagina-health/ Soy products help with vaginal dryness and act as a natural lubricant. [13] X Research source Nuts and wheat contain vitamin E that help prevent vaginal dryness while also aiding in keeping your skin healthy. [14] X Research source ://simpleorganiclife. org/vagina-health/ Water helps your body function correctly and is essential for the health of the mucous membranes, such as those in your vagina. These membranes rely on proper hydration so getting enough water is essential. Drinking 8 glasses of water a day also promotes natural lubrication and a milder vaginal scent. [15] X Research source
Also, do not clean yourself more than once a day. Excessive cleaning can disrupt the pH balance and lead to dryness. [17] X Research source
It interferes with your pH level and reduces the acidity in your vagina. This can make you more prone to infections. It will only temporarily cover up smell instead of curing it. If you have a strong vaginal smell, consult with your doctor instead of using a douche.
If your concerned with the way your vagina smells consult your doctor. Vaginal odor changes at different times of the menstrual cycle so don’t always think a bad smell is a sign of infection or illness. [19] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Overgrowth of Candida albicans can happen due to antibiotic use, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, impaired immune system or changes in your normal vaginal flora. Symptoms of yeast infection include itching and burning, painful urination, gray or white vaginal discharge that is thick, pain during sex, and redness/swelling of the vulva. [21] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Yeast infection can be treated with antifungal ointment, tablet or suppository, such as butoconazole (Gynazole-1), miconazole (Monistat 3), clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin), and terconazole (Terazol 3). [22] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication called fluconazole (Diflucan). Reduce your risk of yeast infection by avoiding douching, wear loose-fitting pants, avoid pantyhose, and change wet clothes as soon as possible. [23] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Bacterial vaginosis is thought to result from imbalance in the normal vaginal bacteria. New or multiple sexual partners and douching may disrupt the balance and lead to switching from “good” to “harmful” bacteria. [25] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Bacterial vaginosis may be symptomless or you may notice white/gray vaginal discharge, pain or burning, or fish-like odor. Itching inside and outside the vagina may also occur. Bacterial vaginosis may make you more prone to sexually transmitted diseases. Sometimes this condition can go away without treatment but your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics. Best way to prevent bacterial vaginosis is to maintain proper vaginal hygiene that supports normal healthy bacterial balance. [26] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Many STDs can be symptomless but if you do experience symptoms they may include unpleasant odor, white, clear, yellow, or green vaginal discharge, itching, and painful urination. [28] X Research source Some bacterial and parasitic STDs can be treated with antibiotics whereas others have no cure, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and genital herpes, but can be managed with medications. [29] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If you suspect you have an STD, contact your doctor immediately and/or make an appointment for testing.
