Genital Area
Why is Genital Area Cleaning Important?
Vaginal infections in women; bacteria, fungi and other organisms multiply uncontrollably. Some of these microorganisms are already present in the vagina and coexist with other organisms to maintain a healthy level. Infectious organisms, on the other hand, can enter the vagina due to improper hygiene or unsafe sexual intercourse. The ideal pH value of the vagina is between 3.8 and 5.0. If the pH value is kept in this range, itching, discharge, burning and bad odor formation can be prevented.
In some periods, depending on the menstrual cycle and hormones, discharge may be visible, the discharge may be physiologic or pathologic. Physiological discharge is usually odorless and colorless. However, the consistency, density and color of pathological discharge changes due to immunosuppression and poor hygiene conditions. In this case, the discharge may be malodorous, greenish or yellowish in color and foamy.
Cleaning the genital area is important for maintaining the health of the vulva and vagina. Redness and swelling can be prevented by keeping the vulva away from irritating and dry substances. In this way, the vagina, which is open to infection, is also protected.
Is it Necessary to Clean the Vagina and Vulva?
The vagina and vulva produce certain fluids necessary for genital health. However, some people tend to wash the vagina to remove vaginal odor. This cleaning is not necessary as a healthy vagina has a natural, mild odor.
Washing the vagina does not eliminate vaginal infections. In some cases, it can even cause harmful bacteria to multiply and spread the infection. Using harsh soaps can dry out the delicate vaginal tissue, causing tears that make it easier for harmful bacteria to enter the vagina.
Research has shown that continuous washing of the vagina increases the risk of various health problems. The risks of vaginal cleansing methods such as douching are as follows:
- Endometritis, inflammation of the uterus
- Sexually transmitted infections such as HIV
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Cervical cancer
- Vaginal pain
How to Clean the Genital Area?
Since the vagina cleans itself naturally, there is no need for extra cleaning procedures. However, some applications can be used to keep this area clean and healthy:
- Only warm water should be used to clean the vulva. It is not necessary to use any products, including soap. After cleaning, the vulva should be rinsed and dried.
- Protective methods such as condoms should be used to prevent infectious diseases and pregnancy from sexual intercourse.
- It is important to keep the vaginal area as dry as possible. Clothes that come into contact with fluids such as sweat, menstrual blood and discharge and get wet should be changed frequently.
- To prevent urinary tract infections, urinate after sexual intercourse and wipe the urine from front to back.
- To prevent the spread of bacteria, vaginal intercourse should be avoided immediately after anal intercourse.
What Should be Considered in Genital Area Cleaning?
There is no need to use any product other than water during genital area cleaning. The use of chemical cleaners such as soap and gels, especially in the vagina, causes the balance of the vaginal flora to be disrupted. As a result of the decrease in beneficial microorganisms here, the risk of infection and other vaginal disorders increases.
In order to maintain the balance of the vagina, attention should be paid to the following:
- It is sufficient to wash the area with water after sexual intercourse.
- Like other body functions, a balanced and adequate diet is important for the protection of the vaginal flora.
- Tampons used during the menstrual period should be renewed every 2 hours at the latest.
To prevent infections, pain and irritation, certain products and methods should be avoided:
- Deodorants and sprays
- Perfumes
- Soaps with detergent ingredients
- Soaps containing perfume
- Vaginal steam bath
Although vaginal steaming is used for problems such as prolapse, there is no evidence that this method works. On the contrary, the steam cannot penetrate the vaginal tissue or reach the uterine area. It can also cause second or third degree burns when applied by unqualified persons.
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