If the only information that women received about feminine hygiene came from advertising, many of us would believe that anything less than the scent of garden lilies was “not-so-fresh.” We’d also buy into the fact that life would be so much better if we could eliminate those “dreaded” days of each month all together, but if that’s not an option with the help of a certain product comes the freedom to dress in all white and go horseback riding and mountain climbing.
What is often not said is that the vagina is a pretty independent organ, that doesn’t need much help from those sponsors interrupting your regularly scheduled program. All your lady parts need are a bit of time, attention and faith that they are working exactly as they should. Check out these tips:
1) Don’t be duped by the douche
95% of women douching are doing so unnecessarily and possibly putting themselves at more risk for vaginal infections. Many women mistakenly douche for a variety of reasons: pregnancy prevention after unsafe sex, reducing vaginal odor and cleansing the vagina after menstruation. The truth is that douching is ineffective at resolving any of the issues listed.
The vagina is one of two-self-cleansing organs that the female body possesses (the other one is the eye). Your body naturally keeps a balance of yeast and vaginal secretions to maintain its own health. When disrupted by intense cleansing such as douching, it can force the vagina to overcompensate, resulting in a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. The vagina has a distinct smell that isn’t reminiscent of roses or a sunset breeze. Pay attention to your vagina’s natural scent. An offensive fish-like odor can indicate an infection.
2) Give it room to breathe
Regularly wearing tight pants, not changing out of wet clothing for long periods of time, overuse of certain bubble baths and body washes are all common culprits responsible for vaginal infections. It doesn’t take much to upset the delicate balance of this organ and many innocent behaviors can lead to a yeast infection. A yeast infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of naturally occurring candidas albicans fungus in the vagina. Symptoms include burning or soreness, intense itching and/or dryness, a strong offensive odor from vaginal discharge, as well as thick clumpy discharge with the consistency of cottage cheese.
Since fungus thrives in warm, moist, dark places it is important to allow your vagina some breathing room. Sleep in cotton underwear or loose shorts to allow it to come up for air.
3) Use non-scented toilet tissues, soap, powders, sanitary napkins and tampons
It doesn’t take much to maintain your vaginal health, but it also doesn’t take much to disrupt it either. Avoid using any kind of scented products that come into close contact with your vagina. The most that’s needed is a daily subtle cleaning of its surface. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is another infection that can occur when the vagina becomes irritated and an overgrowth of certain bacteria occurs. BV mimics many of the same symptoms as a yeast infection and although it is not dangerous it can be uncomfortable to live with. Unlike a yeast infection that you can treat with over-the-counter medication, BV can only be treated with an antibiotic that must be prescribed by a doctor or clinician. It is a fairly common condition and over 29% of women in the United States are affected. Your best bet for a happy va-jay-jay is to allow it to do its job and put those products back on the shelf.
4) Know what you’re getting into (and what’s getting into you)
Female condoms, latex dams and male condoms are just a few methods that can offer protection against things that your vagina may not want or be ready for such as STI’s and unplanned pregnancy. It’s not enough just to use these methods consistently and correctly, but also be aware of any latex allergies you could possibly have so that you can explore other options. Read directions to be sure of condoms and lubrication that are only recommended for oral sex (some massage oils are strictly for use on the outside of the body). And don’t think sex toys are 100% problem free either. Vibrators and similar items must be sanitized with each use, as well.
5) Urinate before and after intercourse
Doing so flushes bacteria from the urinary tract that could possibly find a way to the bladder and cause a urinary tract infection (UTI). Cranberries can also promote good bladder and urinary tract health. They are rich in a compound that prevents bacteria from attaching itself to lining within the bladder and urinary tract.
6) Perform breast exams regularly
Your lovely lady lumps need a bit of TLC too to ensure that they are healthy. Monthly self-breast exams are important since they allow you to know what your breasts feel like regularly in case you ever happy to feel something abnormal. Clinicians recommend performing a breast exam monthly right after your period. If you are uncomfortable examining your own breasts, it is important to see a clinician at least annually to have one performed along with your gynecological exam. One of the best things you can do for your breasts is to know your risk. Researching if breast cancer is a common occurrence in your family tree will make you aware of precautions you should take.
7) Get properly fitted for a bra at least once a year
A women’s breast do not grow to full capacity until after she has had her first child. Until then, they can go through many changes and are affected by genetics, weight gain and of course, pregnancy. 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size and doing this over time can lead to problems such as poor posture, back pain and general discomfort. Some signs that you’re in the wrong size? Spillage over the top or sides of your bra, straps that dig into your shoulder, wrinkling or puckering of the cups and riding (when the strap across your back sits higher than the front). Most stores such as Victoria’s Secret will fit you for free. Ease the tension on your ta-tas.
8) Get to know yourself a little better
The best thing you can do for your special parts is to take a closer look at them while they are healthy so you can know when something isn’t quite right. All of our special parts are different and unique and it’s important to know what should be there, so that you recognize anything that shouldn’t be. Don’t be ashamed to explore and examine your own body. If you don’t feel comfortable doing so, why should anybody else?
