7 BEST INTIMATE HYGIENE TIPS FOR EVERY WOMEN

7 Basic Intimate Hygiene Tips To Follow

Even though we are in the 21st century, discussions around intimate hygiene remain taboo; this goes for both male intimate hygiene and female intimate hygiene. From lack of awareness to social norms, there are many reasons. Because of this, most people do not have complete or accurate knowledge on how to care for these areas properly. Due to lack of proper care, conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), fungal infections, etc., are becoming more common. Women tend to experience these more commonly than men, not just because of poor intimate hygiene but also due to differences in anatomy. So genital care and hygiene are essential for both genders, especially women. Nevertheless, it's time we start taking care of our personal health.

What is intimate hygiene?

Genital areas, especially the vagina, are common grounds for flourishing bacteria or fungi. Maintaining hygiene in these areas is essential to prevent infections, itching, irritation, foul odor, etc. In simple terms, intimate hygiene is all about the hygiene of private parts. 

Keeping the genital area clean, dry, and healthy is vital. Poor intimate hygiene can also lead to skin infections, stomach issues, urinary issues, etc. Therefore, personal hygiene is also essential for good general health. Unfortunately, many people consider intimate and regular hygiene to be the same. Regular soap and body wash are not suitable for personal care as they do not prevent infections or balance the pH. 

What is the ideal pH level of our intimate area?

The skin's natural pH level is 5.5, while the ideal pH of our intimate area (vagina) ranges between 3.8 and 4.5. That means our private area is very delicate and is slightly more acidic than other parts of the body. These acidic properties protect the vagina from accumulating infection-causing bacteria. We also have bacteria that are native to these areas. They naturally maintain pH levels. On the other hand, the vaginal wall and the surrounding glands are also essential for pH balance and lubrication.

Are intimate hygiene products safe?

Intimate area wash products are formulated specifically to maintain pH balance, prevent infection-causing bacteria, and maintain native bacteria. These products are infused with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredients. They also hydrate the skin and lower irritation, and are completely safe for everyday use. They also repair damaged skin along with combating the odor. 

Having said that, if you are wondering how to keep the intimate area clean, here are some essential intimate hygiene tips.

7 Basic Intimate Hygiene Tips to Follow

1. Keep Your Undergarments Clean

The first step towards genital hygiene is to keep your undergarments dry and clean. It will prevent bacteria from building and ensure your private area is free of rashes and irritation. Make sure you wash your undergarments separately and dry them under the sun. Drying them in an enclosed space will leave them moist, leading to the growth of bacteria and fungi. Another important consideration is to wear appropriately fitted cotton undergarments. Tight-fitting clothes will generate sweat in the body leading to fungal infection. Also, cotton fabrics are breathable and good for your intimate area hygiene and wellness.

2. Use Intimate Hygiene Products

Your intimate area is delicate and requires special care. Avoid using soap and choose good quality intimate hygiene wash products. An intimate wash cleanses your private area and keeps it fresh for a long time. It helps balance the pH levels and protects from rashes and infections. Moreover, intimate wash for women also supports the growth of Lactobacillus (good bacteria), which helps to keep your vagina naturally lubricated. Other hygiene products such as intimate wipes, powder, liquids, and creams can also be helpful.

3. Take Special Care During Menstruation

Menstruation is painful and irritating for most women. Every woman wants to feel comfortable and clean during this period, and keeping privates clean is necessary. Change your sanitary pad and panty every 5-6 hours or according to the blood flow. If you use a tampon, change it regularly and never sleep while wearing one. When using menstrual cups, ensure you sterilize them before and after use. It would help if you continued using genital wash during menstruation to avoid infections.

4. Clean your Privates after Intercourse

One of the best intimate hygiene tips is always to clean up after sexual intercourse. Urinary tract infections in sexually active women are common, leading to severe kidney issues. Always use intimate vaginal wipes or wash to clean from front to the back. Also, urinate after intercourse to remove bacteria that might have reached the urethra. Here, intimate wash for men is equally important. You and your partner must maintain good hygiene to avoid spreading infections and sexually transmitted diseases.

5. Maintain Good Cleaning Practices

Apart from taking a bath every day, you must make sure to clean your private parts 2-3 times a day. You might need more washing during menstruation or after a workout or sports activity. It is okay to wash your privates when you feel the need. Try to get an intimate wash free of harmful chemicals and intense fragrance. Be gentle and let the water move down from the top. Also, make sure you do not spray water directly on the vagina as it might push in bacteria. Use a soft and sun-dried towel for drying. You must also wash this towel in lukewarm water twice a week and let it dry in the sun for the best intimate health.

6. Follow Public Restroom Hygiene

No matter how much we hate using public toilets, there will be instances when we have to use them. However, you can take proper precautions when using public restrooms and stay safe. One of the best intimate hygiene tips to keep infections at bay is by carrying handy disinfectants in your bag and spraying them on the toilet seats before using them. After using the restroom, make sure you wash your hands with soap and water and let them dry. If the public toilet only has regular soap instead of a soap dispenser, you should use a sanitiser instead.

7. Eat Healthy and Stay Hydrated

Eating healthy can improve your health. It is because your gut health and vaginal health are closely linked. Consuming food that keeps your gut happy makes your vagina healthy, too. Yogurt, cranberry juice, pineapple, apple, green tea, and cinnamon are some foods that can enhance your gut health. Also, keeping yourself hydrated will flush out toxins from your body. Stay hydrated with at least eight to ten glasses of water. Especially during summer, your body sweats a lot, increasing the chances of rashes and bacterial infections.

Conclusion

It is essential to remember that intimate care tips are not only for adults. You must cultivate good practices of cleansing your privates earlier in life and teach your kids too. Make sure that children get educated on intimate health and hygiene. Try to lower the stigma surrounding conversations about private body parts and their maintenance. That said, it is also essential not to go overboard with cleaning. Many products are available that provide the perfect balance between keeping hygiene and letting your body self-clean the parts. Good intimate products allow friendly bacteria to do their job while cleansing the parts that need more attention. Check out intimate hygiene products -powder, wash, wipes, and cream.