Top 10 Feminine Hygiene Tips
Let's be candid here. Taking care of your area down there is something that we all think we know how to do — until we don’t. Whether it’s because we were taught one way or not taught anything at all, we learn how to navigate womanhood and all the lovely things that come with our vagina. Also, let's not be afraid of that word; our vaginas are a part of us, so it’s important to learn how to take care of it!
Whether it’s because your pH levels are off, it’s feeling itchy, your discharge doesn’t look like it normally does or you just know something is off, we are here to help guide you! It’s nothing to feel ashamed about. UTI’s, yeast infections, and STIs are normal and more common than you think. Luckily, they are preventable and easy to spot if you know what to look out for!
Feeling like you have to pee constantly? Does it hurt when you pee? These are solid signs of a UTI. UTIs typically happen after sex, being dehydrated or from unwanted bacteria. A yeast infection is usually when your vagina is itchy, inflamed and your discharge becomes thick and bright white. These kind of infections are caused by an unbalanced mix of yeast and bacteria.
Now that we have that part out of the way, here are 10 tips to help keep your vagina healthy!
Always change your underwear at least twice a day. This is essential to keep bacteria away.
Go commando if you feel like it! It’s a good thing to let her breath down there, especially when you sleep — or even workout — so sweat doesn’t get trapped, which can cause irritation.
This next tip might sound a little contradicting, but if you’re going to go commando make sure you don’t wear leggings or anything tight all the time. The rubbing of the fabrics and sweat can get easily locked in and further cause irritation.
Try to stick with wearing cotton underwear because it is very breathable and allows any moisture from sweat or discharge to evaporate instead of being a breeding ground for bacteria.
Change your towel often, and make sure you dry your area with a clean dry towel after showering to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Drink lots of water and stay away from sugary drinks because they can affect the bacterial balance of your vagina.
Pee after sex! This will help prevent infections and irritation later on.
Change your razors! This will help with bad bacteria and prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs. Waxing is another great alternative to shaving if you are up for it.
Stay away from scented products and soaps. Your vagina can clean itself, so just stick with water!
Last but not least, stay away from steaming, douching and other fads. Douching takes away the vagina’s natural defense against infections, and steaming also messes with the defense and can cause burns on your vaginal tissue and vulvar skin, which isn’t fun and is incredibly painful.
We have some recommendations for great over-the-counter creams and treatments to keep your area clean, including hydrocortisone, unscented aloe infused wipes and vaseline. Be sure to consult a doctor or OBGYN if you ever have any questions or think something isn’t right!