Regular facials. CTM. AM-PM regimes. Zillion serums.
There’s so much that we do to pamper our face and body. While we’re all for skincare, we’ve got to tell you that your genitalia–both external and internal–needs some TLC too. From enabling sexual pleasure to providing protection from infections, there’s a lot that those hidden parts do for us. Yet, we don’t pay enough attention to them. In fact, most of us aren’t even aware of what constitutes the genitalia.
However, we’re here to change that right now. Because you know what? Resilient as your private parts may be, they’re also extremely sensitive. From a health point of view too, intimate care can affect your overall well being. The logic is fairly simple–poor or careless intimate hygiene practices can cause infections like bacterial vaginosis and pelvic inflammatory disease. According to a study published in the American Journal of Obstetric & Gynecology, they can lead to infertility, low libido and weakness.
But don’t panic just yet, because we’re here to help. Here’s everything you need to know about vulvovaginal health and how to boost it to prevent these dangers:
What Is Vulvovaginal Health?
As the name suggests, vulvovaginal health is all about taking care of your vagina and vulva. If the mention of the term ‘vulva’ made you go, “vulva who?”, you need to read the next few lines carefully.
Technically, your vagina is the birth canal. It runs from the vaginal opening to the cervix (the lower portion of the uterus). The vulva on the other hand, is the visible area outside the vagina. It includes the inner and outer labia, clitoris, and perineum (the region between the opening of the vagina and the anus).
How To Boost Your Vulvovaginal Health
Vulvar and vaginal health are interlinked. Clean and dry vulva can prevent vaginal infections. Conversely, a healthy vagina means no foul-smelling or excessive discharge and a clean and healthy vulva. Here are six ways to make sure that both these parts get the TLC they deserve:
Leave Your Vagina Alone
The vagina has a host of healthy bacteria called Lactobacillus. They produce lactic acid and create a low vaginal pH to inhibit infectious pathogens. Additionally, the vagina has a self-cleansing mechanism in order to maintain this natural protective flora. Now, vaginal health boils down to not disturbing this environment. The best way to do so is to leave it alone.
Say No To Douching
For the unversed, douching is the practice of introducing a stream of water into the vagina to rinse it thoroughly. It is usually done to “feel cleaner” but has major health consequences. According to a study published in the journal Epidemiologic Reviews, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, bacterial vaginosis, cervical cancer. If done during pregnancy, it can lead to preterm delivery and low birth weight.
Practice Safe Sex
Using a condom during sex can save you from sexually transmitted diseases and infections. But ensure you avoid using flavoured ones as they can disturb the vaginal pH. Additionally, make sure you clean your sex toys and hands thoroughly before sex. According to a 2006 study, using dirty sexual aids can lead to vaginal inflammation and bacterial infection.
Use Lube
Ageing or menopause aren’t the only causes of vaginal dryness. As per a recent study, mental health issues like stress, anxiety, and depression can also lead to it. While the solution lies in addressing the core problems, using a lubricant like Sirona’s Moisturising Lube Tube can help you a great deal. For starters, it can relieve vaginal dryness without disturbing the vagina’s pH. It can make sex more pleasurable and painless by reducing friction during sex. This in turn can prevent cuts and abrasions that can turn into infectious sites.
Clean Your Vulva Thoroughly
Unlike the vagina, its surrounding areas cannot clean themselves. If you don’t take charge either, the dirt, sweat, and germ build up can lead to skin and vaginal infections. According to a 2017 study, it is important to clean the vulva with a gentle, unscented cleanser once or twice every day. You can try Sirona’s Refreshing Intimate Wash. Made with natural ingredients like Tasmanaian pepper fruit, it refreshes your intimate area while being extremely gentle on your sensitive genital skin.
Remember, Moisturising Is Important
According to guidelines by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, it is important to moisturise your vulva. That’s because dry genital skin can become flaky, irritated, red, and more prone to cuts and abrasions. You can count on Sirona’s Moisturising Intimate Oil for the job. Packed with the goodness of coconut, chamomile, and rosehip oil, it nourishes and hydrates your genital skin. This product is carefully crafted for your sensitive nether regions, so you don’t have to worry about infections or irritation while using it.
Folks, intimate care is just as important as your regular skincare. So follow these steps to boost your vulvovaginal health.
Featured Image: Pexels
