Are Feminine Washes Effective?
I recently got a bottle of feminine wash as a gift. I usually do not use feminine washes as I have heard so much of flak regarding it. It is purported that these feminine washes can cause a disruption in vaginal pH and cause fungal infection. However, it also got me wondering, why is the sale of feminine washes still skyrocketing? And many people swear by it. Also, in Indonesia, so many women use them and they claim it helps them. Even my maid uses them.
I also found out that there is such a thing as man’s intimate wash but it’s much costlier than the feminine one and also not too common.
What are Feminine Washes?
Feminine washes or sometimes known as intimate washes are solutions used to clean the female genitals. This product focuses on maintaining the hygiene of the external intimate parts like vulva, external genital areas (like the clitoris), and the vaginal opening. The internal part is to be remain untouched by this washes. Washing the internal of the vagina with these items may cause bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections as feminine wash may disturb the bacteria in these parts.
The main difference between feminine washes and body soap is that feminine washes are tailored at a specific pH as the skin of the vulva which is acidic (pH 4.2- pH 5.6). Body soap is mostly pH 9-10. Soaps may also contain chemicals or fragrances that can be very drying or even irritating to the sensitive vulva skin.
Should You Use a Feminine Wash?
Since this feminine washes are only to be used on the outer skin of the private parts, if you feel itchy, sweaty or have rashes at your private parts, do consider using this washes as they help to keep the skin bacteria free. For those with strong menstrual order and are self-conscious, washing your genitals with a small amount of feminine wash helps to reduce the strong scent.
As for the vagina, it is self-cleaning and there is no need for any washes.
While some people might see feminine washes as a fix for a strong vaginal odor, unpleasant discharge, itching, pain or burning, and if all this persists for a few weeks, these are possible signs of infection. Hence, visit a medical professional to manage this issue.
Tips to Purchase a Good Feminine Wash
1. Always check the ingredients of the feminine wash and Google the ingredients if you are not aware.
2. Try only trusted ad reputable brand
3. Do a Google search on the product feedback
4. If you still don’t know the best feminine wash to purchase, consult a health professional
The Best Way to look after your Intimate Health
For those that are not into feminine washes, here are some tips to look after your intimate health:
1. Wash your intimate area everyday
2. It’s normal for your vagina to have a scent. Do not get too hung up on the odour. However, if the scent is overbearing, do check it with a gynecologist.
3. Wear cotton underwear that can absorb sweat. Avoid tight-fitting clothes like thongs, tights and skinny jeans can restrict the flow of air around your genitals and trap heat and moisture. This is the perfect breeding ground for fungal infections.
4. Use a condom if you are having any sort of bacterial, viral or fungal infection at your genitals.
5. Wipe your private part from front to back. If you wipe it from back to front, you are bringing the bacteria to the front which may cause urinary tract infection.
6. Avoid using overly perfumed soaps, gels or wipes at the genitals.
7. Always wipe your genitals with a tissue after passing motion or urinating. This ensures hygiene and prevents a damp ground that encourages bacterial and fungal to grow.
To conclude it all – do you really need feminine washes? The choice is yours.
