The last couple of years in the pandemic had us believe that frequently sanitizing our hands is the way to avoid health problems. But that is just a chunk of the whole picture. Other parts of your body call for attention, including the genitals.
It is a common misconception that genital issues always have a venereal origin. Even bad personal hygiene can lead to several problems. That is why three out of four ladies who do not maintain a vaginal hygiene regime ends up with a vaginal yeast infection.
Personal Hygiene and Vaginal Care
Nowadays, vaginal hygiene has many fancy names. Whether you say feminine wellness or vaginal care, it is a step of personal hygiene that specifically refers to taking care of your intimate and private zones.
There are two levels of feminine hygiene; internal and external. The former involves the vagina, which is self-cleaning and does not require much effort. Whereas the latter refers to the outer pubic area and vulva.
The pubic area and vulva require the most effort and constitute a major and vital portion of a woman’s personal hygiene. Everything you use down there is a part of feminine hygiene, including washes, toners, creams, wipes, and sanitary pads.
What if Your Intimate Zones Are Not Clean?
A vagina goes through a lot every day during a female’s life. For instance, childbirth and menstruation to daily vaginal discharge and pubic sweating. So, it calls for attention, care, and a proper hygiene regime to stay healthy and fresh.
Ignoring vaginal health and hygiene can invite risks and problems, including the following discussed below.
Foul Odors
You cannot expect your vagina to be odorless at all. Like most other body parts, vaginas smell as well. But have you ever stopped and wondered if it is okay for a vagina to smell like that?
When the odor is intense and foul, there is a fair chance that bacteria and other microbes have inhabited there. That is when you know that your vagina is sending signals for help. You must listen to it and begin with a cleanliness regime.
Itching and Irritation
Many unhygienic habits contribute to vaginal itching and irritation. The most common of these habits is ignoring pubic hair. Pubic hair can add to the misery by accumulating dirt, sweat, and microbes. Hence, unshaved pubes can be a source of discomfort and itching.
Other than this, unattended vaginal hygiene can disrupt the body’s natural pH levels. An imbalanced pH can also make the vagina burn, itch, or smell bad. Therefore, experts believe that balancing the pH is the best relief for vaginal itching.
Diminished Sex Drive
For many ladies, intimate hygiene is the key to pleasurable sex. It is understandable as one might find it hard to relax and enjoy when one does not feel fresh.
Moreover, the odors and irritation due to poor hygiene can make anybody feel insecure about themselves. Consequently, a woman uncomfortable with herself will experience diminished libido, and her relationship will suffer.
Health Risks and Infections
The issues with poor vaginal hygiene and imbalanced pH are not only limited to irritation and itching. Several health risks are also associated with it.
These health risks include bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammation, and complications during pregnancy. Besides, not cleaning up after sex increases the likelihood of STIs like genital herpes.
How to Tell if Vaginal Itching Is an Infection?
Itching is the most common symptom of vaginal Infection. However, it is not always indicative of an infection. There are several other symptoms to look for before reaching a diagnosis.
An infected woman, besides vaginal itching, can experience burning during penetration or urination, swelling around the vagina, soreness, redness, rashes, and thick yellow vaginal discharge. The symptoms of the infection can differ in intensity from person to person.
Yeast infections are not as contagious as STIs and rarely transmit through partners. But, it is highly likely for a baby to get a fungal diaper rash if the mother has an infection when she goes into labor.
Basic Dos and Don’ts of Feminine Hygiene
Education is the most important when it comes to personal hygiene. However, one does not need to obsess over cleanliness. A regular care regime is enough to keep you safe.
Wash the Right Way
Most soap bars come with added fragrances that can disrupt the pH level of your private area, thus resulting in itching and irritation. So, dermatologically tested intimate washes and soothing products are preferable.
Moreover, do not use harsh loofahs and ensure wiping from the front to the back. This way, no harmful bacteria from the anus can enter the vagina. Then, use a soft towel to dry up.
Stay Dry and Shaved
Wear cotton panties because their fabric is breathable. Tight satin or synthetic material does not help, especially when it is hot and humid outside.
In addition, do not delay shaving or waxing because pubic hair is one of the reasons behind vaginal itching. Trapped heat, sweat, and dirt from the pubes can be the cause of itching.
Healthy Diet
No matter how tempting junk food might look, it will cause disruptions in your intimates. If you want a natural cure for private part itching, green vegetables and citrus fruits will set your life back on track.
Above all, drink plenty of water as it helps flush toxins out of your body. Hence, your vagina feels fresh and healthy.
What Is the Bottom-line?
If you struggle with vaginal itching and feel that the reason is an infection, consult a gynecologist. They will prescribe you an anti-itch cream for yeast infection that you can use along with the personal hygiene tips mentioned above.
We believe that improving intimate hygiene plays a significant role in revolutionizing overall lifestyle. We can prevent billions of lives from falling into pits of suffering by raising awareness at the right age.
Good vaginal hygiene means a healthy and confident woman. Everyone knows that nothing hinders a woman who feels confident about herself.
