Let’s be honest, ladies: we all get a little self-conscious about our vaginas and whether they’re as clean, healthy and fresh as they could be. But despite how many of us think about it, we hardly ever talk about it out loud.
Well, that’s about to change. This article is all about vagina talk! We’ve got the lowdown on how to keep your lady parts as fresh as a daisy all day long. So follow these handy tips to boost your body confidence.
Still a little curious? Book a Women’s Wellness Appointment at your nearest Marie Stopes Center for a full check-up including a pap smear and HIV/STI test.
3 Ways to keep your vagina healthy and clean
1.Wash at least once daily with water (more if you like)
It’s important to remember that you need to keep your vagina clean, just like any other part of the body. Except there’s one difference: where you’ll use lotions, potions, scrubs and soaps on your face and body, you need to steer clear of all that fancy stuff on your vagina.
The vagina has super sensitive pH levels, as well as a mix of good bacteria that keep it healthy. This balance can be easily disturbed by soaps and cleansers – even the ones that say they’re specifically for feminine hygiene. Many of these products are playing on women’s insecurities about their vaginas, and their promises often aren’t true. Worse, these douches and washes can actually cause you more issues than they solve!
So stay away from anything other than clean water and, if you must, a gentle, fragrance-free soap to clean your vagina. Feeling a little uncomfortable down there? Book a STI/HIV test at your nearest center and get professional help today.
Read more: A healthy vagina: 5 things to do to stay fresh and confident
2.Always wear clean underwear – and don’t be afraid to go commando
You should be wearing fresh, clean underwear every day, so change your panties at least once a day. Make sure they’re either 100% cotton, or that the crotch has that little extra piece of fabric over it – that’s pure cotton, and it’s what your vagina likes best.
Also, don’t be afraid to go commando and let your vagina breathe. It’s actually super healthy to go without underwear from time to time, so try sleeping without panties or giving your lady bits a few hours to air out every day or two.
Read more: 4 things to stop doing if you want a healthy vagina
3.If something feels, looks or smells off, visit your doctor
All vaginas have a unique aroma, but if you notice that yours is smelling different or particularly pungent, it’s an indication that something’s off. The same goes for itching, redness, irritation, discharge, lumps or bumps, or anything else out of the ordinary. The moment you notice that your vagina feels, looks or smells different to normal, make an appointment to visit your doctor, gynae or clinic right away. Find your nearest Marie Stopes Center here to book an appointment.
Read more: Healthy vagina must-haves: how many of these 9 things do you do?
Get honest, confidential treatment and advice at Marie Stopes
At Marie Stopes, our qualified and caring doctors and nurses can easily help identify any issues you may be having, and help you resolve them quickly so you can feel confident again. So if there’s anything you’re worried about, pop into your nearest Marie Stopes centre for a caring, confidential treatment.
Find your nearest Marie Stopes centre and make an appointment online.