Ladies, never swipe from back to front. This habit can impact women's reproductive health, even if it sounds trivial. Unlike in men, the urethra and anus are close together in women, so this method of wiping carries the risk of spreading bacteria to the urinary tract. Do you know the risk of illness due to an incorrect washing method? Read this article until the end, ladies!
Why is it forbidden to swipe from back to front?
As is known, the anus contains a lot of bacteria from the feces. When bacteria from the anus spread to the front of the vagina (urethra), the risk that can arise is a urinary tract infection, which can even interfere with the success of the pregnancy process. Especially when immunity is weak, the pH of the vagina changes and becomes more prone to experiencing abnormal vaginal discharge, ladies. Even if not treated immediately, the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections can spread to the kidneys and cause damage and even death.
Of course, the impact of wiping from back to front will not show up soon. However, if this method of wiping is performed continuously, vaginal discharge can occur. Some of the symptoms of abnormal vaginal discharge that you should be aware of are:
Smells terrible (e.g., rotten or fishy) and pungent
The amount of vaginal discharge suddenly did not rise as usual.
Yellow, greenish, or grayish with a lumpy texture. Sometimes abnormal vaginal discharge can also have a chunky texture.
Bleeding and pain every time you have sex or outside of menstruation.
The vagina feels itchy or painful.
The vulva and vagina appear red and swollen.
How do you wipe properly?
The correct way to wipe is to do it from front to back. Don't forget to dry your vagina after wiping.
Wiping with scented wipes or special vaginal soap is also often popular with women. The reason is that many women still think this method can keep the vagina smelling good all day long. Hmm, it is not entirely wrong. But this could disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina.
Of course, the vagina has an odor indeed. Vaginal odor can change at certain times during the reproductive cycle. As your period approaches, your vaginal odor may vary, and that's normal, Ladies!
If you are still concerned about a vaginal odor that feels unpleasant and makes you feel insecure, you should see a doctor immediately, ladies. Please also share your experience combating the stigma about the vaginal odor you experienced at Fitie. Calling all Indonesian women, let's break this bad stigma together! Download Fitie on your gadget to chat with women all over Indonesia without being considered taboo.