Topic: Vaginal Health and Hygiene
Expert: Dr. Niva Jacob
Keeping your privates and “down there” clean and healthy is important. Single, committed, sexually active, sexually inactive - it doesn't matter - keeping clean is simply good practice!
In a world of information overload, terrible advice on Reddit, and the stigma that surrounds basic sex-ed, it’s easy to get confused.
To understand more about vaginal health and how to maintain a good routine, we sat down with our expert - Dr. Niva Jacob (MBBS, DNB - Psychiatry), who’s five years of experience as a Bangalore-based sexologist, sex therapist, and social media influencer have rendered her an expert in matters of the privates.
Question: How does one keep their vagina clean?
Answer: “Let’s take a step back,” Dr. Niva says. “A common misconception among many women is that only the vagina needs cleaning- this is untrue. Both the vagina and vulva, A.K.A the vulvovaginal region needs to be kept clean, and it’s easy to confuse the two.
“The vagina is an internal canal connecting the uterus to the outside of the body, facilitating monthly menstruation, while the vulva is the external genital structure that covers the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening. Unbeknownst to most, they are both self-cleaning.
“Simply use water”
Daily cleansing with water does the trick (remember, no extreme temperatures). I strongly advise patients not to use soaps, or products that promise to make your privates smell better or stay cleaner.
Never clean internally: Internal vagina cleaning methods such as “douching” are not something I would recommend - as these can lead to injuries. The insides are also self-cleaning.’
Question: My vagina smells and is releasing a discharge despite bathing daily - what can I do?
Answer: “A healthy vagina is mildly acidic, with a higher pH level than the rest of the body. Women with healthy vaginas can expect a clear-to-white discharge, with a slightly pungent (but not stinky) smell down there. This is completely natural. You may notice this discharge leaving a yellowish mark on your underpants,’ Dr. Niva assures.
“Only when this discharge is causing a very foul smell, pain, or irritations in the vagina or vulva, should you seek medical attention, especially if you’re noticing abdominal pain, struggling with urination, or facing back pains. If a gynecologist or sexologist is unavailable, consult a doctor online.”
Question: Does sex affect vaginal health and hygiene?
“Absolutely it does. Before and after having sex, practice good hygiene such as hand washing, washing your genital area, brushing your teeth, and rinsing your mouth.
Don’t forget the golden rule - ‘Always pee after sex” to clean out any unwanted bacteria.
A water or silicon-based lubricant is the way to go!” explains Dr. Niva. “Shower, clean the privates with water gently, and gently pat dry.
Even strong or chemical lubricants can cause infections, especially if you have sensitive skin. Ensure that your partner, if male, is using a latex-based condom at all times, especially when switching between oral, vaginal and anal sex.
Question: Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to keep my vagina clean and healthy?
Yes! Here are some lifestyle tips I give to my patients
Go for cotton undies
“Cotton underwear is body-safe and airy, ensuring air can reach the vagina, and makes it more difficult for smell-producing bacteria to build up.”
Pubic hair should stay
“Your pubic hair not only protects your sensitive vulvovaginal skin from bacteria but also from friction burns during sex. As long as you keep your pubic hair clean, they can and should stay!”
Change out of sweaty clothes
“After a workout, physical activity, or just a day out in the hot sun, always remember to change out of your sweaty clothes and into clean ones. Sweat can irritate the vagina and cause infection.”
Tampons are fine
“Tampons are fine to use, but avoid scented ones. Change them every four hours - or you risk bad odour releases and risk of infection.”
Maintain a good diet
“Consume a healthy, balanced diet with ample hydration. Studies show that diets rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, support healthy vaginal flora (AKA the good bacteria that help balance your vagina’s pH levels)”
If you have any more questions or immediate concerns about your vulvovaginal health, feel free to reach out to us at Contact Libertee, or book an in-person/online consultation with Dr. Niva here.