Maintaining the cleanliness of women's intimate organs aims to avoid sexually transmitted infections and diseases. Currently, genital infection is a serious health problem worldwide. Women have their way of keeping their genitals clean. A strong understanding is needed to achieve reproductive health and healthy sex. Is the cleaning method that Ladies are doing right? Check out the tips that Fitie has summarized below!
1. Don't Clean Too Often
Female genitals naturally have good and healthy bacteria. If cleaned too often, the bacteria can be gone. One time a day is enough. Not only that, but excessive cleaning can also cause dryness, irritation, and pain in the genitals.
The worst level is that it makes you more susceptible to infections, including HIV, due to damage to the delicate lining of the vagina or anus. Therefore, clean the genital area first before going to the anus.
When drying with a tissue or towel, wipe from front to back (genitals to anus) in one stroke. This is to avoid contamination of organisms from the anus. Use cold water because warm or hot water can cause dryness and irritation.
Clean only once a day
2. No Need to Use Soap with the Claim "Cleaning the Intimate Organs."
Ladies, any products sold with claims to clean intimate organs that's a no! The genitals inside do not need to be cleaned with soap, especially those that contain fragrance.
Instead, wash the genitals using a clean washcloth or hands. Avoid getting water or soap into the vagina. Precisely the pH in the area of the female reproductive organs will be disrupted and cause the entry of unwanted harmful organisms.
Vagina has a specific smell, and it is very natural. The scent is not something to worry about. Other people won't smell it either unless you already have a partner. Scented soaps can irritate sensitive skin. Avoid using soap to perfume intimate organs, whether soap, wash, or spray.
Wash using clean water, not soap
3. Avoid Plucking Pubic Hair
Maybe some people are uncomfortable with this, but in reality, the hair was created for a reason, you know. Its job is to protect the genitals from external irritants such as dirt, dust, and "bad" bacteria.
If you want to get rid of pubic hair, do it correctly. Keep in mind having pubic hair is not unhealthy.
Don't pull out pubic hair.
4. Use Underwear and Sanitary Pads Properly
Use your underwear and towels, don't borrow and borrow from each other. Clean underwear immediately after use, avoid repeated usage and wash towels regularly.
Choose underwear that is cotton-based and loose. It provides air space to keep the genitals dry by absorbing sweat and drying faster.
Use pads only during menstruation, and avoid using them if not necessary. Skin that rubs directly against the sanitary pad can cause overheating and sweating because it doesn't have room to breathe. As a result, the areas that come into contact feel painful, itchy, and irritated again. Remember to change your underwear regularly.
Use cotton underwear
Maintaining the cleanliness of the reproductive organs for women is very important to do properly. The aim is to avoid genital infections or sexually transmitted diseases.
If you feel something is bothering you in the area of the female reproductive organs, such as itching, burning, a strong odor, or excessive discharge, immediately go to the doctor. You can also consult the doctor at Fitie first. Protect your health, Ladies.
Sources:
Brooklyn Abortion Clinic. (2022). Genital Hygiene: How to Keep Your Genitals Clean [Online] https://www.brooklynabortionclinic.nyc/genital-hygiene-how-to-keep-your-genitals-clean/
National Health Service. (No Date). Genital hygiene: our tips [Online] https://www.devonsexualhealth.nhs.uk/your-sexual-health/genital-hygiene-our-tips/
Healthline. (2021). So-Called ‘Feminine’ Hygiene Is Important for Anyone Who Has a Vagina [Online] https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-clean-your-vagina#dealing-with-discharge