Women's health is a special thing. Here, the slightest problems can lead to serious consequences. How often women run around clinics, undergoing numerous examinations and passing various tests. But gynecologists constantly remind that daily observance of simple rules of intimate hygiene can prevent many inflammatory and infectious diseases. The only thing that ladies should do is follow the recommendations of doctors.

At first glance, it seems that a woman's intimate hygiene does not imply anything complicated, the main thing is to wash yourself daily and change your underwear regularly. But as practice shows, being clean and healthy are two different things. Often, women during hygiene procedures make a number of mistakes that lead to a weakening of the microflora of the genital organs and an increase in the risk of contracting infectious diseases. How to do everything right to maintain your health?

Intimate hygiene rules for women

How to wash properly?

Be sure to wash your hands with soap before washing. During water procedures, it is not recommended to use sponges and washcloths so as not to injure the mucous membrane of the genital organs and cause irritation or even inflammation. We wash only with our hands and direct a stream of running water from front to back so as not to bring bacteria from the rectum to the genitals. Those microorganisms that perform beneficial functions in the intestines can cause an inflammatory process in the vagina, so you need to be careful. It is not advisable to wash yourself while sitting in a basin or in a bath. It will also increase the risk of dangerous bacteria entering the vagina.

It is advisable to wash at least 2 times a day, morning and evening. In one of these two times, you can use the gel for intimate hygiene. The second time I wash with just water. Doctors also recommend that women take a shower before and after intimacy.

At any time of the year, only warm water should be used. The towel for intimate hygiene should be soft. And wipe off after washing with gentle blotting movements. It is very important that the towel is not only your personal one, but also used only for the intimate area.

Do you need to douche?

Douching is washing the vagina with water. And if the woman is healthy, douching is not necessary. Normal daily intimate hygiene involves only washing. A procedure such as douching can only be prescribed by a doctor for medicinal purposes. In this case, the course of douching is only a few days. If you douche daily for no reason, this will lead to a violation of the pH of the vagina, the appearance of dryness of the mucous membranes, leaching of beneficial lactobacilli from the vagina and disruption of its normal microflora. All this can lead to bacterial vaginosis and provoke the development of an inflammatory process in the vagina.

After that, just wash the genitals with water. If a little sperm remains inside, there is nothing to worry about. Sperm is not able to lead to such negative consequences as frequent douching.

During and during douching is especially dangerous. Therefore, on critical days, doctors do not recommend women even take a bath. It's better to use the shower.

How to get rid of unpleasant odor from the vagina?

An unpleasant smell from the vagina is most often a sign of a disease of the genital organs. Therefore, before trying to get rid of it, it is necessary to visit a doctor and go through, especially if the smell has appeared recently.

If a faint smell is constantly present, perhaps this is due to the characteristics of the organism. People themselves very rarely feel their own smell, but, nevertheless, it can be unpleasant for a sexual partner. And in this case, you need to take action.

First of all, you need to reconsider your own, exclude onions, garlic, peppers, beer from the diet. You should also try to drink more mint or plain green tea. In addition, you need to wash more often and be careful about the choice. It is worth taking panties only from natural materials in order to avoid the debate of the genitals due to synthetics.

Means for intimate hygiene of women

Soap for intimate hygiene

Ordinary soap is not suitable for use in delicate areas, as it dries out the mucous membrane. In addition, it creates an alkaline environment, while the natural environment of a woman's genitals is acidic. Violation of the normal level of acidity leads to a weakening of the protective properties of the internal environment of the vagina and provokes the reproduction of harmful bacteria. Therefore, it is imperative to use a special gel for intimate hygiene, which acts on the mucous membranes of the genital organs very gently and gently, cleansing and relieving irritation. Its acidity is close to the natural environment of the vagina, and it also contains more moisturizing ingredients.

When choosing a gel, you should pay attention to its color and smell, or rather, their absence. Means for intimate hygiene should not contain dyes and fragrances that can cause allergic reactions. It is good if the gel contains lactobacilli, which help maintain the normal microflora of the female genital organs, as well as chamomile extract, which helps relieve irritation.

Pads and tampons

Doctors advise ladies to give preference to pads and use tampons only in special cases. Although tampons help get rid of unpleasant odors during, they are also more reliable. Therefore, many women still often use them. Change both tampons and pads every 4 hours. If a dirty pad is in contact with the vagina for a longer period of time, this can lead to the development of an inflammatory process, since it creates a favorable environment for the reproduction of bacteria.

Panty liners

Despite the fact that this hygiene product is popular among women, doctors do not recommend using such pads every day. They are made of synthetic materials and interfere with the normal breathability of the underwear. Any woman during the day has a small amount of discharge that leaves a mark on her panties. And pads help keep your favorite underwear clean. But still, for health, it is better to use plain cotton panties and just wash them. And if you already use pads, you need to change them every 3-4 hours.

First, it must be recognized that all women smell. You should not try to eliminate the normal smell.

Second, get to know your own normal smell - within a month. If you can recognize a normal smell, it will be easier to tell when there is a problem.

Thirdly, learn how to wash properly. Always wash from front to back, never wash from the anus forward (otherwise you will introduce bacteria from the anus into the vagina, in particular E-Coli). Do not insert soapy fingers or a soapy sponge into your vagina. Rinse the outside and separate the labia to wash the clitoral area and clitoral hood.

Fourth, wiping after a bowel movement, go back from the anus. Place your hand/arms behind your back while drying yourself.

Fifth, douching is not required for a woman. Avoid it, or only shower occasionally. Ask your doctor if you really need to use a vaginal douche.

Sixth, try to wear cotton underwear as much as possible. Nylon keeps moisture from being absorbed. Cotton "breathes" so it helps keep the genitals dry.

Seventh, if you have confirmed vaginal infections, you should wear pads (not tampons). Then you will be able to control the discharge and this will help you avoid the accumulation of odors. Also, when you are at home, you should wear loose-fitting cotton shorts so that more air can enter the genital area.

Eighth, do not put off a visit to the doctor, feeling an unpleasant or unusual smell. The genitals, the vagina, is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria because it is dark, warm, and humid. The sooner you start treatment (tablets, cream, or both), the sooner you can get rid of the bad smell.

Ninth, don't be embarrassed. Every woman has had at least one infection in her life. Most of the women had many infections (yeast usually). It's not pleasant, but doctors have seen it all before.

Tenth, teach yourself and your partner good hygiene. No one should put up with bad partner odor, especially the most common infections (yeast and trichomoniasis) that are easily treatable now.

From childhood, mothers teach their daughters that a woman should keep her intimate places clean and remember to wash herself in the morning and evening. However, not all girls and women know how important intimate hygiene is, and sometimes they neglect these simple procedures.

The modern market offers a variety of products for women's intimate hygiene - these are panty liners, special cleansers, wet wipes, tampons and much more. But their diversity does not mean that any of them will suit you. Each woman is individual, therefore, she needs special means for caring for herself.

To find suitable means for intimate hygiene, you need to listen to your body, perhaps consult with. We will try to answer the most frequently asked questions.

How often should you wash?

On ordinary days, it is enough to wash 2 times - in the morning and in the evening. Try to wash more often during the day. Each change of a pad or tampon should be accompanied by a light ablution. In addition, you should rinse the genitals after intimacy (with any method of contraception). Select a special towel that you will use only for wiping your intimate areaso as not to introduce foreign bacteria.

How exactly should you wash?

Manipulations should be carried out from front to back, that is, from to the anus, and not vice versa. By adhering to this rule, you will save yourself from getting bacteria from the anus into the vagina, which can cause microflora disturbance and other unpleasant problems. Use only clean, not too hot water. Do not wash with cold water!

What kind of cleanser to use?

Soaps and shower gels, so often used by many women, are suitable for hands and body, but for the mucous membrane of your intimate area, soap is the enemy. Instead of gently cleansing delicate skin and maintaining the acid-base balance, soap dries it out, killing all bacteria - both good and bad. There are special products for intimate hygiene - gels containing lactobacilli or infusions of medicinal herbs. The former will help preserve the sensitive microflora of the vagina, the latter will relieve irritation and soothe the delicate skin of the genitals. But remember, high-quality intimate hygiene gel should only be found in pharmacies, and not in cosmetic stores.

If you do not have the opportunity to take full-fledged water procedures, you can use wipes for intimate hygiene. They must be PH-neutral and contain no alcohol. But as good as wet wipes are, using them too often can lead to irritation. Therefore, keep a small package of wet wipes for intimate hygiene in your purse in case of an emergency, and at home try to wash yourself with water.

How often should you change panty liners?

If you use panty liners, change them every 4 hours. If you are concerned about abundant vaginal discharge, this is a reason to contact a gynecologist. The secretions tend to contain bacteria that, in a warm, humid environment, begin to multiply very quickly, especially during the hot seasons. Therefore, a rare replacement of sanitary pads can cause vaginal dysbacteriosis, which, in turn, leads to very serious problems - inflammation, adnexitis, or even cystitis and urethritis. Launched, not detected in time and not cured, diseases of the female genital organs can become a cause in the future.

What to use during menstruation?

A modern woman, according to her preferences for collecting menstrual flow, can choose pads or tampons. Each of these means has its pros and cons. Gaskets are good because they do not come into contact with the walls of the vagina and cannot injure the delicate skin of the genital organs. Bacteria develop very quickly in pads, so you need to change them every 2-3 hours. Tampons, on the other hand, do not come into contact with the external environment, so bacteria develop somewhat more slowly. But, being in the vagina, especially if inserted incorrectly, the tampon can injure the mucous membrane and cause inflammation of the vaginal wall. If you experience discomfort while using tampons, for the good of your health, you should refuse them, no matter how convenient they may be. But even if tampons do not cause discomfort, you can not use them all the time, try to alternate with pads.

When choosing pads or tampons, pay attention to their level of absorbency. The ability to absorb moisture is indicated by the number of droplets shown on the package. The more droplets, the more moisture they can absorb. Choose the right products depending on the intensity of your secretions. In the first days of the cycle, the discharge is usually the most abundant.

Can I douche to keep clean?

Douching should be done only as directed by a doctor. The treatment course is several days. Douching cannot be done constantly and without the control of a gynecologist, because the natural microflora of the vagina is washed out, and this threatens with dryness of the mucous membrane and the appearance of discomfort. Abuse of douching can lead to very serious negative consequences.

What underwear should be preferred?

For everyday wear, gynecologists recommend underwear made from natural materials. Cotton panties are well breathable, absorb excess moisture and prevent the genitals from overheating. Synthetic underwear, on the contrary, becomes fertile ground for the reproduction of harmful bacteria. But in a woman's life there are special cases when convenience fades into the background, giving way to beauty and grace. Of course, nothing terrible will happen if sometimes you wear beautiful lace underwear for a short time. The main thing is to observe all other hygiene rules.

Take these simple recommendations for daily self-care rules. By following them, you will feel fresh and confident throughout the day. By observing intimate hygiene, you will save yourself from the risk of vaginal dysbacteriosis, infections or inflammation of the female urinary-genital system.

Issues of female intimate hygiene only in recent decades have been covered in the countries of the post-Soviet space. Modern girls pay more attention to personal hygiene, but still most do not know how to properly wash a woman. Such ignorance often results in an appointment with the attending gynecologist and leads to long-term treatment.

Basic rules for daily care

Naturally, the first rule of personal hygiene is daily washing. The common belief that it is enough for a woman to wash her genitals once a day with soap is erroneous. Let's look at how often and what is better for a woman to wash:

Wash the genitals 2-3 times a day;

The correct option would be to carry out the procedure after each visit to the toilet, however, the existing reality often does not provide such an opportunity. Asking how often to wash a woman , you need to understand that twice a day - in the morning and in the evening, this is a mandatory minimum that helps to maintain health. Using wet wipes and panty liners will not replace a full bath, but will help keep you fresh throughout the day.

Do not wash with too hot or cold water;

The temperature regime is an important part of the proper care of the genitals. Too hot water negatively affects the natural moisture balance, and overdried skin in the intimate area brings a lot of inconvenience. However, the flow of cold water can lead to a number of intimate diseases. Choose the most comfortable water temperature, that is, close to natural body temperature.

Use special means for intimate hygiene;

The skin of the female genital organs is very delicate, so the use of simple soap is strictly prohibited. Violation of the acid-base balance can lead to severe irritation, disruption of the integrity of the mucous membrane and the formation of microscopic cracks, which will lead to a decrease in protective functions and, as a result, a high risk of gynecological diseases.

Daily use of special gels will help cleanse and disinfect the skin. The washing procedure should be carried out only with clean hands, without the use of washcloths or sponges. The flow of water is directed from the pubis towards the anus, which helps to avoid infection by bacteria that live in the intestines. Among the preparations for intimate hygiene, there are also a number of highly targeted ones, created for daily care during the menstrual cycle or answering the question of how to wash with thrush.

Many girls are interested in how to properly wash women inside.

A healthy body will provide reliable protection and clean the inside of the genitals on its own. Douching is necessary only as a medical procedure. Independent attempts to clean the vagina lead to the fact that women wash off the protective film and thereby deprive themselves of a significant part of the protection.

You can also watch a video on the topic "Intimate hygiene".

Doctors recommend washing at least 2 times a day - in the morning and in the evening. Adult women need to perform this hygiene procedure before and after sexual intercourse. This is necessary in order to wash away all the accumulated bacteria in the intimate area and prevent their penetration deeper inside.

Many women do not even realize that such a disease as cystitis, in half of the cases, does not occur due to hypothermia, but due to improper hygiene of the intimate area.

It is necessary to wash only with clean hands. Therefore, pre-wash them with soap, paying attention to the subungual zone, because bacteria and microbes accumulate there in large quantities. In addition, it is worth remembering that the water for washing must be warm. This is due to the fact that washing with cold easily leads to the development of inflammation.

During the hygiene procedure, it is important to act strictly in a certain direction. Women should wash only from front to back - from the vagina to the anus, which is very close. This is due to the fact that if you change direction, you can easily and quickly bring a serious infection into the genital tract. After all, Escherichia coli comes out of the anus, which, if not properly washed, is quickly transferred forward and begins to actively multiply, causing serious infectious diseases that require long and painful treatment.

By the way, wiping in the toilet and wiping the anus after defecation is also necessary from front to back.

When washing, do not direct the shower jet inward. So you quickly wash off the internal natural lubricant that protects the female genitals from infections. As a result, they will become defenseless against microbes. Many ladies claim that washing with chlorophyllipt, for example, helps them achieve freshness. However, experts are sure that douching and washing the vagina is a medical procedure, and it can be performed only on the recommendation of a doctor with strict adherence to the instructions. They resort to this method only if there is a burning sensation of the vagina or an unpleasant odor from the genital tract. In any case, you must first consult a doctor.

Rubbing the delicate intimate area with washcloths is also not worth it. Firstly, the risk of injury to the delicate mucosa is quite high. Secondly, bacteria accumulate on sponges and washcloths, which then easily transfer to the genitals, causing inflammation.

Particular attention should be paid to the means that ladies additionally use for personal hygiene. It is impossible to use ordinary soap for washing - it is too harsh for a delicate and sensitive area. It is recommended to use special products with a neutral level of acidity.

After washing, the genitals must be dried. This will require a special towel, which must be soft. Naturally, it must also be clean - it is desirable not only to wash it, but also to boil it and carefully iron it with an iron. It is necessary to dry the genitals by blotting - in no case should you rub the delicate area.

If it is not possible to fully wash away, for example, you are on a long road all day, etc., you can use special wet wipes designed for intimate hygiene. They, of course, will not replace the shower, but will help to restore the feeling of cleanliness and freshness for a while.

How to wash pregnant and lactating mothers

Particular attention should be paid to personal intimate hygiene for pregnant women and new mothers. This is due to the fact that active hormonal changes take place in the body before childbirth, which also affects the intimate area. And after childbirth, a woman begins to discharge, which must be thoroughly washed out so as not to infect the infection.

Ideally, future and already established mothers need to wash themselves after each trip to the toilet. If it is problematic to do this, for example, a woman works, it is worth using disinfectant wet wipes.

The basic rules are no different from those recommended for all women. The only thing: when performing the washing procedure, women in position will have to choose a position that is comfortable for themselves. After all, not everyone, because of the growing belly, is convenient to wash away traditionally while standing.

Tip 2: How to properly conduct female intimate hygiene

A lot depends on the health of intimate organs and proper care for them. Due to an imbalance of lactobacilli and other microorganisms of the vaginal biocenosis, a shift in the acid balance to the alkaline side, such unpleasant diseases as bacterial vaginosis, urogenital candidiasis (thrush) can develop, and the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (trichomoniasis, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis) also increases several times. , ureaplasmosis, gonorrhea, syphilis, etc.).

In a normal vagina, 90% of the microbial mass is made up of various types of lactobacilli - our good bacteria, and only 5% are other microorganisms - cocci, mycoplasmas, ureaplasmas, etc. At the same time, the pH of the medium is normally acidic 3.8-4.5. This level of acidity creates favorable conditions for the reproduction of good bacteria (lactoflora) and prevents the reproduction of other microorganisms. Hence the relevance of proper intimate hygiene, maintaining a normal pH range, the desired ratio of flora.

Intimate hygiene rules

You need to wash yourself at least 1 time per day, and on critical days at least 2 times. Ideally, toilet the external genital organs after each trip to the toilet, if possible (bidet, special wipes for intimate hygiene);

It is necessary to wash the genitals only with your hand, no washcloths. Hands must be clean!

Movements should be from front to back so that microorganisms from the rectum do not enter the vagina.

Use only special products for intimate hygiene, which are sold in a pharmacy marked "tested by obstetrician-gynecologists and dermatovenereologists."

Water should be at a comfortable temperature.

Do not wipe the skin with rough movements, but blot with a towel, which should be soft, clean and individual (only yours, and only for the genitals).

It is better to wear underwear made from natural fibers. You need to change your underwear every day.

If you use sanitary napkins, pay attention to their thickness and materials, and try not to wear one sanitary napkin all day long.

During critical days, you need to change the pad every 4 hours, and the tampon every 2-3 hours, even if the pad is not completely saturated.

Do not use douching as part of your basic care for the intimate area. If you feel an unpleasant odor, then this is an occasion to consult a doctor and start treatment.

Intimate hygiene should precede and complete every sexual intercourse, regardless of the method of contraception you choose.

Sources:

• Intimate hygiene rules for women and men and care products

How to wash properly, the girl is usually told by her mother, but for some reason we forget about these rules, and we remember only when we get any disease of the intimate sphere. Therefore, every girl (woman) needs to know how to wash herself properly and what is the best way to do it.

How to properly wash a girl (woman)?

Here are some tips to help you maintain intimate hygiene properly:

1. What is the best way to wash a woman? The ideal option would be a special gel for intimate hygiene with a neutral level of acidity (pH). Such gels will not dry out the vagina, keep its acidic environment, which will protect the genitals from the growth of bacteria. Also gels for intimate hygiene moisturize the vaginal mucosa. You can not wash with soap, it violates the natural environment of the vagina and creates an alkaline, and bacteria multiply very well in it. Washing yourself with soap, you risk infecting and acquiring a disease of the genital organs.
2. You need to wash only with clean hands and only warm water. A huge amount of microbes settles on the hands during the day, so before washing your hands, you need to wash your hands thoroughly. Cold water is not suitable for washing, there is a high risk of getting serious inflammation. And they, as we know, require a long and unpleasant treatment. Movements must be made from the pubis to the anus, in no case vice versa - otherwise you risk infecting from the anus.
3. Do not direct the jet of water directly into the vagina. This will wash away the protection the body needs and allow infectious agents to get inside. Some experienced women will say that this rule is stupid, because they wash the vagina during douching. Firstly, such a procedure is therapeutic in nature, that is, it is carried out when the problem has already appeared. Secondly, douching is carried out with medicinal compositions. And thirdly, this procedure is prescribed by a doctor, although now many have begun to refuse it, recognizing the harm of washing the vagina. So rinsing the vagina with running water is not worth it, only harm yourself.
4. In no case should you wash the genitals with sponges or washcloths, your hands will perfectly cope with this function. And with a washcloth, you risk damaging the mucous membrane, which will enable infectious agents to enter your body. If you already use a washcloth to treat the bikini area between epilations, do it carefully so as not to hurt the genitals.
5. Towel for intimate organs should be separate, always clean and soft. A hard towel can scratch the mucous membrane, which, as mentioned above, is dangerous to health. Wipe the intimate organs should be gently, gently wetting them. The cleanliness of the towel must be maintained very carefully - it should be washed as often as possible (boil ideally) and ironed with a hot iron to reduce the risk of bacteria getting from it to the genitals.
6. How often should you wash? Gynecologists advise doing this at least once a day, and preferably twice - in the evening and in the morning.
7. Few people care about the question of whether it is necessary to wash before sex; not a single woman will miss this procedure. But not everyone knows whether it is necessary to wash after sex. Experts answer this question unambiguously: no matter how much a woman wants to fall asleep, it will be right to wash herself after sex, and this should always be done.

How to wash pregnant women?

Pregnant women are advised to more carefully monitor their health and the cleanliness of the genitals as well. Ideally, it is recommended to wash yourself after every urination or bowel movement, but working women will find it difficult to do so. Therefore, it is recommended to wash your hands thoroughly and use disinfectant wipes, and thoroughly wash your hands in the morning and evening. All other rules for this hygiene procedure are the same as for a woman who is not expecting an addition. True, in pregnant women there is a difficulty in the very implementation of the process, so you need to choose a comfortable position. With a short period, you can wash yourself as usual, but when the tummy is already large, it is better to wash yourself while sitting on the edge of a low bench or lying down.

All girls want to look attractive, be the most beautiful and irresistible. Therefore, personal hygiene is given a lot of attention. However, when washing their faces in the morning, for some reason, many girls forget about one more aspect of grooming. Or they consider it not as necessary as a clean face. Nevertheless, intimate hygiene is one of the most important components of not only cleanliness, but also the health of every woman and girl.

At all times, this aspect has received much attention. For example, Cleopatra used baths with the addition of herbs or essential oils. In Russia, a bath has always been popular, and the number of decoctions with chamomile, aloe and other herbs and oils used for these procedures is simply huge. Many of the recipes have been known and used for centuries. In general, the intimate hygiene of women is first described in the ancient monuments of Mesopotamia (approximately the 2nd century BC), although the term itself appeared only in the middle of the last century.

Rules for holding

Despite the seeming knowledge of the issue, many women do not know exactly how intimate hygiene is carried out. Some pay too little attention to it, others, on the contrary, too much. In both cases, there are various problems with women's health. So, what do you need to know in order to properly carry out all activities to cleanse intimate areas?

There are simple rules that will help you navigate this difficult issue:

Care products

Any, the healthiest woman, in the vagina is a huge amount of bacteria, both beneficial and pathogenic. The microflora is in an unstable balance, which is easy to shake, using the wrong, inappropriate feminine hygiene products. The fact is that the pH level of the vagina is about 3.5. This indicator is necessary for the life and reproduction of beneficial lactic acid bacteria, harmful ones die under such conditions.

Many infections also fail to overcome natural defenses. Ordinary soap has a pH of about 7, i.e., it creates an alkaline environment that injures the normal microflora of the vagina. And, while the body does not have enough beneficial bacteria, pathogenic ones can have time to multiply.

All intimate care products (gels, milks) must have a neutral or slightly acidic pH value. It is considered ideal if these numbers range from 3.5 to 4.5. A pH level of 5 is also still acceptable. If this figure is higher, then there is a great chance to disrupt the natural microflora of the vagina.

Currently, there are a large number of means and recipes for intimate care. However, not all of them are equally useful and not suitable for all women. Basic items of feminine hygiene:

• Special soaps, gels, foams, milk. You need to carefully read the composition to make sure that the drug is based on natural ingredients, for example, decoctions of chamomile, aloe or calendula, essential oils, and not chemical perfume fragrances. Lactic acid-based products are also useful, because they restore the natural microflora and prevent irritation;
• It is undesirable to constantly use intimate hygiene wipes instead of washing. They are good at fighting odor and dirt, but this is an emergency option in case there is no opportunity to take a shower at the end of the day or after the toilet. It is good if they are saturated with essential oils or extracts of aloe, chamomile, etc.;
• For those who want to avoid the smell, they produce special deodorants for the intimate sphere, but they use perfume fragrances, which is not suitable for all women;
• Creams for intimate hygiene are not a luxury, but the norm. They have antiseptic properties, protect against the penetration of harmful microorganisms, cover the vagina with a thin protective film, and help restore the natural microflora. They should be used when swimming in open water and for those over 40;
• Panty liners are wonderful feminine hygiene items that allow you to maintain freshness, cleanliness, and avoid unpleasant odors. Often they are impregnated with oils to give a pleasant aroma. But you need to use them correctly. They change the "dailies" not in the morning and in the evening, but every 4 hours, because they accumulate a large amount of secretions. With prolonged wear on gaskets, ideal conditions are created for the development of pathogenic flora;
• Menstrual pads and tampons also need to be changed regularly and frequently to avoid irritation and inflammation.

Folk recipes

For washing, many recipes have been created using herbs: chamomile, aloe, calendula, etc. These products do not cause allergies and irritation, many decoctions are medicinal. The personal hygiene of a woman is unthinkable without the use of folk recipes. Products with potassium permanganate, aloe, calendula and other herbs are very popular. You need to be careful when using baking soda recipes, as it creates an alkaline environment.

So, with inflammatory diseases, an infusion of chamomile flowers is very popular. The recipe is extremely simple: 1 tbsp. l. chamomile flowers pour 200 ml of boiling water and insist for an hour. It is advisable to use a thermos for steaming.

You can prepare a collection of dried herbs coltsfoot and chamomile. They must be mixed in equal amounts and stored in a tightly closed jar. For the procedure 4 tbsp. l. collection pour 500 ml of boiling water and insist 2 hours.

Douching with chamomile is also often done. For this, 2 tbsp. l. flowers pour 1 liter of boiling water and insist for 40 minutes.

Popular for douching and potassium permanganate. A weak pale pink solution is prepared for the procedure. Potassium permanganate should not be used for cervical erosion, as the disease can be aggravated.

Tea tree oil has an antimicrobial effect, so it is also used in recipes for intimate hygiene and douching. 1 tsp oils are mixed with 1 tsp. alcohol. Then 5 drops of the mixture are diluted in a glass of boiled water.

Maintaining intimate hygiene is not so difficult. Its rules are simple and clear. It is necessary to monitor the timely implementation of the procedures and choose the most suitable products with the right pH level.

The more times a day the better. But at least 2 times (morning, evening).

And also look at the circumstances:

1. during critical days, the frequency should be increased, hygiene products should be changed every 2-3 hours, and at the same time try to wash (in extreme cases, wet sanitary napkins for intimate hygiene);
2. before and after intimate relationships (do not mention why this is important); some kind of prevention for yourself and your partner
3. after visiting the toilet (it is advisable to wash yourself, or the same wipes for intimate hygiene)

Care must be taken when choosing intimate hygiene products: replace ordinary soap with a special product with a pH level that works well. And use it no more than once a day, so as not to disturb the microflora of the intimate zone. In other cases, warm water (preferably boiled) is suitable.

And also pay attention to hygiene, in case of a violation of the microflora (thrush, bacterial vaginosis, vaginosis). Wash yourself more often, it is better not to use pads that do not allow you to "breathe", and of course visit a doctor and follow the treatment.

If possible, then at least three. Morning, afternoon and evening. Usually women and girls do this in the mornings and evenings, but during the day we are most active, we move, we sweat, especially in summer, the discharge is noticeable on daily pads, and in fact they most often do not completely absorb, basically they only flavor a little, which means that a smell is also possible unpleasant, and the formation of bacteria and germs, which is worse.

A woman needs to wash herself after every toilet. This is the best hygiene. You can just water without detergents. And at least once you need to wash with detergent. Only few people follow it.

The frequency of this hygiene procedure should be at least once a day. Ideally twice - in the morning and in the evening. And on certain days, even more often.

By the way, about the frequency of personal hygiene of the genital organs, it is worth thinking about the guys. They also want to wash themselves at least once a day. Usually it happens 1-3 times a week, on a shower and bath day.

A woman needs to wash herself at least twice a day, in the morning, in the evening, since almost everyone works, it won’t work anymore. And this must be taught to girls from a young age, then it will be a vital necessity. , this procedure, and in the evening, before going to bed, it's just nice for yourself.

Recently there was the same question, but about children. So, gynecologists advise washing girls once a day with clean running water, if we are talking about soap, then generally once every three days, so as not to disturb the microflora and not to kill beneficial bacteria.

It may be strange for us, of course, but it is also necessary to preserve beneficial bacteria. In general, of course, the more often, the more pleasant it is for yourself.

To observe feminine hygiene, you need a toilet for the external genital organs 2-3 times a day, always in the morning and in the evening, in the afternoon - if possible. During menstruation - as often as possible. The choice for intimate hygiene is wide in the form of soaps, gels. It’s better not with simple soap, which washes away the beneficial microflora, which has a slightly acidic composition, and soap has an alkaline composition, so problems such as thrushquot ; are frequent. You need to wash from the pubis to the anus. Water temperature about 30 degrees Wipe with wet movements. In good organizations, there are women's hygiene rooms where there is a bidet. In places of work where women work in shifts and around the clock there should be showers.

The more often, the better and without soap. When you get used to rinsing and washing your hands with every visit to the toilet, it is already very difficult to wean. The feeling of freshness is so attractive, like a drug. It's just a little more difficult for working women to do this.

Undoubtedly, it depends on the time of the year (of course, in the summer it can be more often) and on the days in the month, women understand what I mean. And so it is standard, not less than two times. And the fact that 1 time per day is a must.

The issue of personal and intimate hygiene is very important, and not only for women - men should also understand the importance of this aspect. And the fact that children need such hygiene does not need to be told to any mother - she herself is aware.

For a woman, it is necessary to perform these procedures at least once a day - this is necessarily and no doubt.

It is desirable - twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, and with special means for intimate hygiene or at least clean water.

During critical days - even more often, as needed.

In the case of an active sexual life - similarly.

We all know the tricks and secrets of healthy hair and skin, but what about a healthy vagina? Most women have been taught to use "feminine hygiene" soaps or sprays since childhood, but they can do more harm than good. If you know how to stay clean, choose foods that will help you be healthy, and even how to exercise your vagina, you can keep it in top condition. Read on to find out how to care for your vagina.

Steps

Keep your vagina clean

Wash with hot water only. It may seem counterintuitive, but cleansing your vagina with soap, whether solid or liquid, is not the best way to keep it clean. The vagina is cleaned without the help of detergents. Like other parts of the body, the vagina has a pH level that needs to be maintained within certain limits - 3.5 and 4.5 - to prevent the growth of bacteria and promote the development of a good microflora. Using strong cleansers can upset this balance, which can lead to infection, irritation, and even bad breath.

• People usually mean the whole area "down there," but remember that the vagina is actually a tube-like muscle that sits inside the body. The vulva, the skin around the vagina, can be cleaned with regular soap as long as it does not irritate the skin.
• If you do wash your vagina with soap, rinse it well with water afterward so that no marks remain. Soap inside the vagina can cause irritation.

1. Do not use feminine perfume sprays. They are supposed to give your vagina the scent of flowers, but in fact, the effect will be just the opposite. They flush out all the good bacteria that cleanse and protect the vagina from infections. Spray chemicals can cause irritation and even a burning sensation. If you use all other hygiene methods, you will not need to hide your smell.

   • Scented creams, which are offered as a way to change the smell of the vagina, cause the same problems, so they should also be avoided. The same can be said about scented pads and napkins.
   • If you feel like you just need to hide the smell of your vagina, buy natural products without chemicals. You can create your own body spray by mixing a few drops of an essential oil like rose, lavender or lemongrass with water in a spray bottle. Spray after showering and dress only when skin is completely dry.
   • There is no evidence that douching prevents infections and STIs.

2. Take care of hygiene during menstruation. For many women, infectious diseases escalate during menstruation, as the blood in the vagina changes the pH level and upsets the balance. To stay healthy during your period, adopt the following habits:

   • Change your tampon frequently. Tampons absorb menstrual blood, and if you leave it in for a long time, the blood will continue to change the pH of your vagina. Change your tampons every few hours to prevent this from happening.
   • Do not use panty liners (including panty liners) for longer than necessary. Pads, both regular and daily pads, can be irritating if used for an entire month.
   • Consider installing a menstrual cup. These rubber cups are inserted into the vagina to collect blood and need to be washed every few hours. Menstrual cups are a chemical-free alternative method, and they can help you if tampons and pads are causing irritation.

3. Wipe from front to back. It is very important to move in this direction, and not vice versa, so that particles of feces or any other product containing flavoring or chemicals do not enter the vagina.

Get Healthy Habits

Wear cotton underwear. Cotton linen dries quickly and allows air to circulate in the fabric. This prevents the formation of moisture that promotes the growth of fungus and harmful bacteria that can lead to infection. Underwear made of synthetic fabrics, silk, lace or other materials also does not breathe.

• If you like to wear underwear made from other materials, make sure that the part of the underwear that touches your vagina has a cotton pad.
• If you have frequent vaginal infections, try to choose underwear made from organic, undyed cotton that has not been treated with chemicals.

1. Wear loose clothing. Tight pants, tight jeans, and tights trap moisture in the skin and prevent air from passing through, often leading to fungal infections. Try to wear looser, lighter fabrics that are well ventilated. Wear skirts and dresses more often, choose tights with a low fit, and not to the waist. Choose shorts with a loose fit.

   Always change wet clothes. If you walk around in a wet swimsuit or tracksuit after a workout, you will develop a fungal infection. If necessary, take an extra clean, dry underwear with you, and put it on as soon as possible after swimming or training. You may also need an additional emergency kit.

   • If you decide to shave your intimate area, be very careful not to cut yourself with a razor. Use shaving cream (it shouldn't get into your vagina) and shave slowly to avoid unwanted cuts.
   • Waxing is another method that many women use. If you choose one, make sure you first choose a salon with a good reputation, clean tools, and quality wax. Beauty salons with unsanitary conditions can cause the spread of bacterial infections.

2. Wash after sex. During sex with a partner, it is literally open to bacteria and other microorganisms, which can irritate the vagina and lead to infection. Solution? Wash your vagina with warm water after sex. This will greatly reduce the chances of an unpleasant side effect from the date.

   • It's a good idea to ask your partner to wash before sex, especially if you don't use condoms.
   • Washing other parts of your body before sex can help too! If you are prone to infections, shower with your partner to reduce the risk of bacteria entering your body.
   • Use rubber dams and gloves for extra protection during oral sex or finger stimulation.

3. Urinate after sex. Urinate after sex, even if you are about to bathe. When you have sex, unwanted bacteria can enter the urethra, which is connected to your bladder. Urinating after sex can help you flush out bacteria from your vaginal area and avoid urinary tract infections.

   Use condoms. Sperm and vagina have different pH. If semen remains in the vagina after sex, it disturbs the pH level in the female reproductive system and creates a favorable environment for the development of bacteria in it. Condoms or another barrier method of contraception will help you deal with this problem. If you don't want to use condoms, wash your semen immediately after sex so it doesn't have time to affect your vaginal pH.

Proper nutrition and exercise

Eat lots of yogurt. Yogurt contains the same type of beneficial bacteria that your vagina needs to stay healthy. You can restore the number of bacteria in your body by including yogurt in your diet. Yogurt can help prevent and treat fungal infections.

• Other foods can help your body too. Fermented foods can replace yogurt if you don't like it.
• If you don't want to add yogurt to your diet, yogurt capsules are available.

1. Eat lots of fruits. Cranberries, pineapple, strawberries, and other fruits help to freshen up the smell of secretions that the vagina secretes. Your vagina won't start to smell fruity, but the smell might get nicer if you've ever been embarrassed by it. Fruits are also high in water, and hydration helps the body flush out toxins that can cause bad breath.

   Eat less sugar, processed carbs, and alcohol. Sugar can make a yeast infection worse, so it's important to limit your sugar intake. Don't add sugar to your food, and read the labels on your food to make sure there are no added sugars. Also, stay away from processed carbs and alcohol, as they are high in sugar.

   Eat garlic. Garlic kills fungus and prevents and treats fungal infections. Eating roasted or raw garlic a few times a week is a great way to keep your vagina healthy.

   Do Kegel exercises. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles of the pelvis and vagina. These muscles lose elasticity and strength with age and after childbirth. Strengthen them to avoid urinary incontinence problems and also increase sexual pleasure. To perform Kegel exercises, follow the instructions:

   • Find out where these muscles are. To do this, pretend that you have stopped peeing in the middle of the process. It is on the muscles that you are now squeezing that the Kegel exercise is directed.
   • Squeeze your muscles and hold for three seconds, then relax. Repeat 15 times.
   • Keep doing the Kegel exercise every day, holding longer intervals and doing more repetitions.

2. Learn more about how to exercise your vagina. The vagina is also strengthened by sex and pleasure, as sex keeps it supple and toned. Regular sex is a good way to keep fit. Squeeze and relax your vagina during sex to exercise it as much as possible.

Infections and other diseases

1. In case of fungal infections, use pharmacy medicines. Most women experience fungal infections from time to time, which can be treated with antifungal creams and suppositories. Depending on how severe the infection is, treatment may last 1, 3, 5, or 7 days. Most yeast medicines are also sold with a cream for vulvar irritation and burning.

   • If you are pregnant, be sure to check with your doctor before taking any medication, even if you are sure you have a yeast infection.
   • If you are not sure if you have a fungal infection, you need to see a doctor. A fungal infection can be identified by a cheesy yellowish discharge with a bad smell, itching and burning in the vaginal area, a rash on the vulva, burning and pain.
   • If the infection doesn't go away for more than a week, make an appointment with your doctor to be prescribed medicines to help fight the infection.
   • Drink natural cranberry juice
   • Get tested for STDs with your partner. So you will be sure that everything is in order with you. Don't be afraid, your health depends on it.
   • Removing hair from the intimate area will make your vagina fresher and cleaner.
   • Do not wash your vagina with soap or other products that contain chemical ingredients. They cause irritation and infections.
   • Always take a bath regularly and use plenty of water. ESPECIALLY if you're on your period.
   • Drink plenty of water.
   • Wash immediately after sex.
   • Keep your vagina dry and wear cotton underwear.

   Warnings

   • If you have an STD, start treatment as soon as possible. Running STDs can create many problems.
   • If you're experiencing vaginal breakthrough bleeding - a small amount of blood between periods, bleeding that lasts a week, or very heavy bleeding - see your doctor. You may have some kind of disease.
   • If you're having problems with persistent vaginal odor (especially if it's a "fishy" smell), see your doctor. You may have vaginosis.