Most of us regard products formulated for our intimate areas with a sense of scepticism—and rightfully so. Some of them are anything but safe or science-backed. Let’s talk about vaginal douching—the risks associated with douching far outweigh the benefits. And, honestly, it’s not required—or endorsed by experts. Because our vaginas are self-cleansing (oh, and while we’re here: vaginas don’t have to smell like roses and strawberries—there, I said it); it’s just the vulva (the area on the outside) that might need a little care. Because this area is exposed to sweat, dirt, and discharge, and cannot self-clean. And bringing a gentle wash into the equation is pretty beneficial. Why? Does hygiene warrant the inclusion of a wash? Let’s break it down.
Do You Need An Intimate Wash?
Yes, Soap Poses The Risk Of Disrupting The Vagina’s pH
Most of us maintain our hygiene with a little bit of soap and water. A soap is crafted bearing in mind the pH of our skin—which is around 5.5 (most soaps have a pH above 4.5), and our vaginal pH ranges between 3.5 and 4.5. That explains why a soap poses the risk of disrupting the vagina’s pH. This imbalance facilitates the growth of bacteria and infections and can trigger irritation on the skin as well as odour. And that’s why soaps aren’t ideal for cleansing. Even other factors like excessive sweating, tight clothing, periods, sexual activity, hormonal imbalances, and synthetic undergarments can trigger disruptions in pH levels.
This Is Where Intimate Washes Come In
You need a cleanser that’s formulated just for your intimate area—one that will balance your vaginal pH. And that’s where an intimate wash comes in. This is a formula that maintains the pH levels of the vagina; treats dryness, irritation, and itching; and discourages the development of bacterial or fungal infections in the area. And it can support the growth of good bacteria, namely Lactobacillus, which keeps the vulva fresh and healthy.
Don’t Overdo It—Just After Showering
Unlike douches, intimate washes aren’t meant to clean the vagina. Once you’ve created a lather, just clean the external area—from the front to the back. But this mustn’t be overdone. You can use a small amount of the wash after showering.
The Gentlest Intimate Area Washes Ever
Remember that the vagina is a self-cleaning organ, but the vulva isn’t. And maintaining hygiene has to be done correctly and safely. Always do your research before buying a product, and if you feel like something’s wrong, consult your gynaecologist soon.
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