Vagina health and hygiene: A Complete Guide

Qualities of healthy Vagina

There are several qualities of a healthy vagina, some of the main features of it are mentioned below:

1. Regular menstrual cycle:

The woman's regular menstrual cycle is of 21-35 days, but the most common duration is 28 days. It goes through the phases in ovaries known as menstruation, the follicular, ovulation, and luteal phase.

2. Moist and elastic Mucosa:

The vagina mucosa is the inner covering of the vagina. Moistness and elasticity of it are the natural circumstances due to the presence of cervical mucus, and this helps in the vaginal health maintenance.

3. Clear white discharge:

The appearance of vaginal discharge is different from the progression of the menstrual cycle. Clear, white discharge is a common and a sign of bacterial health. It usually is more visible around the time of ovulation and is a blend of cervical mucus and natural vaginal secretions.

4. Familiar Vaiginal fragrance:

Normally, the vagina doesn't smell, Certainly different elements such as hormonal changes, diet, and body functions affect the flavor and the scent of the vagina. Such changes mean you have a yeast infection if the smell is not your usual one and is accompanied by symptoms like itching or discharge.

5. Normal pH level maintenance:

The usual vaginal pH level is within the range of 3.8 to 4.5. The acidic environment is a protective factor that suppresses the development of harmful bacteria and maintains beneficial lactobacilli. Maintaining this pH balance is very important for vaginal health and it can be affected by menstrual blood, sexual activity, and some medications.  

Signs of Unhealthy Vagina:

There are several signs that convey that your vaginal health is not upto the mark:

1. Improper hygiene:

Not cleaning the genital area regularly or using harsh soaps in the groin area can disrupt the natural pH balance and lead to irritation and infections.

2. Itching and burning:

These symptoms indicate irritation and infection, like a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis which very common kind of vaginal infection. It is important to consult a healthcare expert if you experience these kinds of infections.

3. Abnormal vaginal discharge:

Generally, the normal Vaginal discharge is whitish in color. If you experience a discharge that is unusual in color such as green or gray, and has a strong odor or causes discomfort and uneasiness along with itchiness can be a sign of an infection.

4. Unsafe Sex:

It is recommended to use protection during intercourse. Not using protection or having multiple partners increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections such as STIs, which can affect vaginal health and hygiene.

How to clean your Vagina?

There are some simple steps you can follow to keep your maintain Clean Vagina as,

To clean your Vagina Every day, use only warm water and the soap of your choice is a personal choice, Then your fingers rather than a washcloth are much better for the skin.

Do not wash the inside of your vagina. The vagina is very sensitive to pH imbalance and an irritation or infection would be the result of that. The vagina usually cleans itself due to its discharge.

Using scrubs, and fragrance gels can also throw off your natural pH balance and bring on infection.

Also, after using the toilet, do the wiping in the front part first, and then in the back. Going the other way could lead to the bacteria getting into your urethra and causing a urinary tract infection. You can follow these simple tips to maintain clean vagina.

What kind of vaginal products should women use?

Well,  your Vagina cleans itself naturally, it does not require extra additional products due to its self cleaning properties. But it you plan to use products then it is recommended to use mild soaps, and non-irritating products which are specifically designed as Vaginal products.

It is recommended to use hypoallergic Pads and Tampons and medically tested Silicon Menstrual Cups during periods. Some pads contain chemicals and dyes which can cause irritation and infection.

If you plan to use moisturizer, creams or genital soaps then opt for the one which are mainly meant for vaginal hygiene. Avoid harsh moisturizers and lubricants use light silicon based moisturizers free from parabens and other chemicals.

Conclusion

Maintaining Vaginal Health and hygiene is an important task to maintain overall health in females, by following some easy steps such as gentle cleansing and using the right Vaginal Care Products specially meant for Vaginal Health. You can also opt for deo creams which are safe to use on genitals and have good fragrances to keep you fresh all day long. Wear loose and light clothes which help in maintaing the oxygen regulation down there. Stay aware and informed about the vaginal health will help in preventing infections and irritations.