The vagina is an integral part of the woman’s body and general health, as such requires attention. Sadly, in recent times, women have taken extremely unnecessary measures to take care of their lady PARTS.
You will be amazed at the range of vaginal products available in the market today, ranging from fresheners to tighteners, sweeteners and cleansers, with an endless list. This is very worrying because a healthy vagina is non-sterile. There are certain organisms that live in a healthy vagina. These organisms, on a good day, exist in a delicate balance. But the use of many of these so-called products disturb the region.
Consequently, this can lead to certain infections and vaginal irritation.
The vagina cleanses itself with natural secretions and does not require any extra help from you, the owner, especially when it comes to cleaning.
HOW THEN CAN I HELP MY VAGINA STAY CLEAN?
UNDERWEAR
The texture of your underwears can promote the growth of certain microorganisms. Cotton and breathable underwears are better at absorbing moisture than their nylon and silk counterparts and so are preferred.
SEXUAL ACTIVITY
Vaginal infections and Urinary tract infections are very common after sexual intercourse. Not all is caused by sexually transmitted infections rather sex serves as an opportunity for certain microorganisms around the perineum and anus to get into the vagina.
So, good sexual hygiene, abstinence from sex, and the use of condoms remain formidable to staying protected from sexually transmitted infections.
In addition, it is important to stay hydrated. Some sources even advice that we urinate before and immediately after sex.
LET THE VAGINA BREATHE
Many times, especially at night, it is generally advisable to do without underwears.
THE VULVA vs THE VAGINA
The vulva is the outward portion of your reproductive organ which comprises the major and minor lips and the entrance to the vagina while the vagina is the muscular tube which the entrance leads to. It is okay to clean the VULVA, using very mild soap and water, especially during and after menstrual periods. For the inner tube, the VAGINA, it is a self-cleaning organ and cleaning(douching) is not necessary.
TREAT INFECTIONS AS SOON AS NOTICED.
Infections have the tendencies to cause more and more trouble if left untreated or poorly treated. That is why as soon as signs of infections are seen, you should visit your doctor. The signs can include itching, a discharge, pain during urination or during sexual intercourse.
PROPER MENSTRUAL HYGIENE
The importance of good hygiene during menstruation cannot be over emphasized. Know exactly what works for you. Change your sanitary pads and under-wears frequently.
Brenda Chinwe Orie is a Nigerian Registered Nurse and Midwife.
She holds a degree in Nursing Sciences which she obtained from the Prestigious Abia State University with flying colors in 2013.
She uses her storytelling and creativity skills on her #NurseB community on Facebook where she teaches health behaviors using relatable Bedside experiences.
She had championed health courses such as #TheNurseBhealthybaby contest (An annual online contest for babies), #NurseBHomecarekit (A mini first aid kit for homes); the latest in her stables, #TheNurseBpregnancyjournal (A memoir for documentation on pregnancy).
She lives and works in Lagos, Nigeria.
