It’s extremely important that we take care of our vaginal health and ensure we give it the attention it deserves just like we do any other part of our body. Taking care of our vagina is not a one-time thing; it should ideally be a year-round practise. Simply cleaning up every day is not enough care. There’s a lot more that needs to be done in order to keep your vagina happy and healthy in the long run. More so, if you want to have fun without running into trouble like STIs and other infections every now and then. At the same time, it’s also important to get the conversation going about vaginal healthcare which is often subdued or hushed up in our part of the world where even educated women shy away from making their vaginal health a top priority. Listed here are some basic tips for keeping our vaginas happy and healthy.
SAY NO TO DOUCHING
Cleaning your genitals should be a part of your daily hygiene routine but this does not mean that you need to douche your vagina. Douching is actually harmful to your vagina as it messes with its pH balance. Vaginas can actually clean themselves and do not require cleaning. Yet ensure you clean the outer part of your vagina which is the vulva with plain water or mild soapy water if your must. Make sure to avoid fancy soaps or intimate washes which have a fragrance.
PUBIC HAIR IS OPTIONAL
Shaving your pubic hair is not compulsory to keep it clean and hygienic down there. It’s a personal choice. While many personally prefer it clean down there, it is absolutely normal to trim your pubic hair and let it grow. Pubic hair is known to protect the vulva from bad bacteria and viruses and it also provides cushioning from friction during sex. But always remember to clean the pubic hair regularly and trim it as well.
DO KEGELS
Kegel exercises are essential to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and improve your bladder as well as bowel function. It also helps in making your orgasms stronger according to experts.
KEEP IT DRY
It is very important to keep it dry down there. Do not wear sweaty or wet underwear for long. Warm temperatures and a wet environment are the perfect breeding ground for yeast, and wearing wet or sweaty underwear can lead to vaginal infections.
WEAR COMFORTABLE UNDERWEAR
Wearing breathable underwear is important for your vagina. While all that lace and synthetic fabric may look amazing, it’s not the best for your genitals. Cotton underwear is best for daily wear as it allows your vagina to breathe and remain healthy and clean.
GO TO BED COMMANDO
Sleeping naked can actually be really healthy for your vagina. We wear underwear throughout the day and no matter how breathable the fabric may be, it cannot be as good as no fabric at all. Apart from feeling empowering, sleeping naked can actually have health benefits for your vagina and keep it happy and healthy.
GET TESTED REGULARLY
Seeing your gynaecologist on a regular basis is good for your sexual and vaginal health. Don’t forget to get a complete body checkup as well as a check-up for STIs, UTIs as well as a pap smear.
