Get a squeaky clean vagina, maintaining a squeaky-clean vagina

So here’s the thing ...

Ladies, most of these manufactured vaginal products that we buy into actually don’t work. I mean, even if they do, they aren’t long-term solutions. According to Dr Sharmaine Mitchell, obstetrician and gynaecologist at The University Hospital of the West Indies, “You have to know what you are treating. Remember that the vagina is self-cleansing.” Therefore, nothing beats those basic household procedures we all know of.

Proper hygiene is a must

As straightforward as it sounds, we women ought to be mindful of our personal hygiene. Use a washcloth and mild soap. Take showers twice a day and make sure to pack necessary hygiene products while on the go.

Drink lots of water

You’ve probably heard the health benefits of drinking seven to eight glasses a day. However, the optimum water intake that is ideal for each person is not particularly known and proven, so drinking enough water for your body is best.

Wear breathable underwear

Cotton undergarments are a great alternative to those satin and lace panties. Underwear that is made of synthetic material may limit airflow and hold on to moisture. Wearing your correct size is also ideal, for comfort and for breathability.

Allow a doctor to diagnose and treat you

These now trendy practices of vagacials, vaginal herbal steams and at-home soaking baths are a no-no, as expressed by Dr Mitchell. They may do more harm than good, as no studies have shown evidence of their effects. Home remedies are often considered reliable, but the use of products such as baking soda and apple cider vinegar have harsh effects on the vagina, too. If you do notice any abnormal changes, make sure to check your doctor and receive the necessary medications.

Do not use any perfumed products on the vagina

Absolutely no foreign bodies such as feminine wash and douches should be entering the vagina. We ought to note that tampon usage can even lead to cervical cancer. Limit the use of scented or perfumed soaps, panty shields or body washes as these may irritate the vulva. Some soaps can disturb the pH balance in the female’s vaginal area, causing the proliferation of certain bacteria that lead to odours. Water is best to clean the area.

Always urinate after sex

Reduce the chances of foreign bacteria by cleaning the body before and after sex. The urethra is cleansed of harmful bacteria when urinating after sex and prevents the build-up of bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis and UTI.

Go on a vegan diet periodically

Having a balanced diet and eating a lot of grains, fruits, vegetables is suited for a pleasant vaginal odour. You are what you eat, and as such certain foods can affect the smell of your discharge.

Drink cranberry and citrus juices

You can opt for these fruity drinks in order to flush the vagina of toxins. Cranberries and citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit and pineapple, will create an acidic environment in the urinary tract which limits the growth of bacteria. Drinking these juices daily can reduce the chances of developing infections.