You know what’s even better than a steamy hot sesh with boo? The cute bonding that happens after sex. Those cuddles, the sweet talks, and the forehead kisses can bring you closer than ever. However, this postcoital glory can also make you forget or neglect an important aspect of your health and hygiene. We’re talking about cleaning your intimate area after sex.
Nope, wiping the area with a T-shirt or a towel doesn’t cut it. You’ve got to push yourself out of bed and wash the vulva, pubic hump, and the groin thoroughly. This is because unlike the vagina, these surrounding areas don’t have a self-cleansing mechanism. So you’ve got to take charge of keeping them spick and span. We contacted Dr. Shilpi Sachdev, Consultant, Obstretics & Gynaecology, Apollo Cradle, Moti Nagar to understand exactly why the post-sex cleanup is crucial. Scroll down to read what all she has to say:
It Can Save You From Infections
“Oral sex, toys, and fingers can introduce bacteria to the intimate area. This can lead to irritation, skin infection, and acne on the genitals. If the bacteria enters the vagina, it can cause infections like bacterial vaginosis and UTIs,” says Dr. Shilpi.
She also warns against a more serious consequence of negligence. “Sometimes, there can be micro abrasions due to friction during sex. If the bacteria enters the bloodstream through them, it can lead to instant death due to toxic shock syndrome (TSS),” she says.
For the unversed, TSS is a fatal condition caused due to the toxins released by bacteria. But all of this can be prevented if you wash your intimate area after sex and keep the germs from wreaking havoc on your health.
It Can Help Maintain The Natural Flora Down There
Just like the vagina, your sensitive genital skin also has a natural acidic mantle to kill harmful bacteria. However, Dr. Shipli explains that semen has a higher pH value and there’s a fair chance of it getting stuck to your privates. “This can disturb the pH of your intimate area and lead to bacterial growth and infections. But washing it off can keep the natural pH intact,” she says.
It Can Keep Malodour At Bay
“Your intimate area has more active sweat glands than the other parts of your body. So it is bound to perspire more during sex. The semen, germ, and fluid buildup on it can worsen this situation and add to the sweaty odour. This can make your intimate area smell foul,” Dr. Shilpi explains.
“Washing the genitals can clear off this buildup and keep the odour problem at bay,” she adds.
How To Wash Your Intimate Area After Sex?
“Avoid douching or inserting anything into the vagina to clean it. All you need to do is rinse the genitals with warm water and a mild cleanser. Steer clear of using harsh soaps, dettol, and scented products on the intimate area,” Dr. Shilpi suggests.
We have a great product in mind that fits the bill. The Refreshing Intimate Wash By Sirona is an all-natural product that can do the job without meddling with the acidic environment down there. Packed with the goodness of jojoba and tea tree oil, it can cleanse and moisturise the sensitive regions and help keep them fresh all day long.
In case you don’t have access to a comfortable washroom, we suggest you keep Sirona’s Intimate Wipes handy. They can keep you clean and safe in dire times without disturbing the natural pH down there. Just glide the wipe from front to back to clean up and you’ll be sorted.
Trust us, spending a few minutes on cleaning your intimate area after having sex can save you a ton of trouble. So, enjoy the sesh, but make sure you’re safe too.
Featured Image: Unsplash
