Vagina, an important still neglected part of woman’s body. Discussing vagina and its health is topic of embarrassment and shame for most of the woman. Limited knowledge about vaginal hygiene and Carelessness regarding vaginal health may expose the body to urine infection, infertility, impotence, STD, AIDS and other diseases including cancer. For all over health practising, vaginal hygiene is very important.
Essential Tips for Vaginal Health
Most of the women live under a misconception regarding the cleanliness of vagina. Vagina – a muscular tube that runs from opening of the womb to vaginal opening inside the body of a woman. It is acidic (between 3.5 to 4.5), pH is maintained by vaginal flora (beneficial bacteria). Thus healthy flora and acidic medium protect from several infections.
A healthy vagina secretes natural discharges to keep itself clean. If these natural and healthy conditions like the balance of bacteria, pH level of vagina or releases are disturbed, it may result in redness, swelling, irritation, itching and abnormal discharges.
healthy vagina
Vaginal health is not just limited to the cleanliness of vagina, but our diet and exercise also have essential roles to play.
Avoid strong, perfumed soaps or antiseptics as they disturb vaginal flora, discharges and pH making the vagina more prone to infections. Avoid vaginal douches, scented wipes and vaginal deodorants. In case of filthy smell consult a doctor as it may be a symptom of underlying infection. To avoid a yeast infection, avoid wearing wet clothes for long. Avoid tight clothing.
What to avoid
Lactic acid formulated feminine washes are available on the market. If not possible plain soaps may be used but make sure to rinse it thoroughly. Use warm water to wash vagina.
Always wash or wipe front to back to avoid faecal matter enter the vagina and cause infection.
Maintain hygiene during periods, keep on changing pads every few hours, use cotton pads if possible. Avoid tampons, if using, replace them every few hour.
Right choice of the panty is critical. Wear cotton panties as they dry quickly and allow free air flow.
Choosing under clothes
Encourage your partner to use condoms. A clean vagina with hot water before and after sex, make a habit to pee after sex. Also, ask your partner to clean himself before and after sex.
Add yoghurt, garlic, sweet potato, flaxseeds, cranberry juice, soy, almonds, dark chocolate, fruits and lots of water to your diet.
Diet
Exercise under the supervision of expert to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.
Regular cervical screening after the age of 25 is essential to detect any abnormality and treat to avoid cancer.
Lab test
Ladies keep in mind you are the heart of your family. You need to be healthy to take care of other family members. So make every body part including the vagina. In case of any unusual vaginal symptom like itching, irritation, pain during sex or urination, swelling and unpleasant smelling discharges do consult your gynecologist.