In some families there are subjects that are off-limits to discussion. For example, rules of intimate hygiene. Some parents consider it shameful to talk to their children about this topic, others do not think about such “nonsense” at all. At the same time, both groups do not understand that a lack of information on hygiene issues leads children, and then adults, to an unkempt appearance, problems in their personal lives, and even diseases. Communication on intimate topics is an integral stage of education. Get ready for it!

Genital hygiene

An unkempt appearance is a guarantee of a person’s unpopularity in “normal society,” and the smell in the intimate area will certainly lead to problems in relationships. Failure to comply with hygiene has a negative impact on psychological health and contributes to the development of infectious diseases. In half of the cases, inflammation of the bladder - cystitis - occurs “thanks” to improper intimate hygiene.

How to properly wash a woman's face

Compliance with the basic rules of intimate hygiene should become as basic as brushing your teeth:

1. It is advisable to wash yourself twice a day. Those who are sexually active - even more often: before and after sex.
2. Wash your hands with soap before the procedure.
3. Use warm water. The intimate area is not a place that needs to be hardened.
4. Women wash themselves from front to back, towards the anus. If the procedure is carried out in the opposite direction, there is a chance of introducing E. coli into the genital tract.
5. Do not direct the shower stream into the vagina, so as not to wash away the natural lubricant, which helps resist the attack of harmful microbes. Therefore, it is prohibited to douche without a doctor’s prescription.
6. Do not rub the intimate area with a sponge; microorganisms accumulate in it. In addition, a rough washcloth will easily damage the delicate mucous membrane.
7. Don't use regular soap. Feminine hygiene includes products only with a neutral acidity level.
8. A towel for intimate hygiene is separate, clean and soft. It is recommended not only to wash it, but also to iron it.

Penile hygiene

Many men, not accustomed to this since childhood, believe that the rules of intimate hygiene exist only for women. However, for brutal machos, keeping their genitals clean is the key to health and a normal sex life. In old age, mandatory visits to the urologist are added to everyday intimate hygiene procedures (at least once every six months).

There are also sweat glands in the intimate areas of the female body, so you need to take a shower after active physical exercise, any sports activities, or dancing.

Remember, bacteria “love” a moist environment. You can use a special wet wipe if you can’t wash yourself.

“Wrong” panties can also contribute to the development of an infectious disease.

Buy your girl comfortable cotton panties. Synthetics in underwear for every day are highly discouraged. Natural fabrics allow air to circulate and do not create an environment favorable to pathogenic microorganisms.

Thongs are also contraindicated because they provide germs with an easy path from the rectum to the vagina.

The towel used for intimate areas must be strictly individual.

The knowledge of how to wash oneself properly should be instilled in girls from a very early age. When performing hygiene procedures for your baby, comment on how and what you do.

Be sure to wash your hands before starting hygiene procedures, and teach your child to do this.

The mother's example plays a key role in this matter. Mom can show how to wash herself, or you can do the training on a doll several times, pointing out the main points.

Monitor how your daughter copes with washing and correct her until you are sure that the desired habit has been formed.

In kindergarten, it is advisable for the girl to have wet wipes for intimate hygiene that she can use after pooping. Be sure to always have clean panties in reserve.

Adolescence is a period when hygiene issues should again be given increased attention. Tell us about the changes that await a girl with the appearance of menstruation. Menstruation should not be a taboo topic and should not be a surprise for which the girl is not prepared.

Gynecologists allow the use of tampons along with pads on menstrual periods for girls who are not yet sexually active. It is important to inform about the features of using each of these hygiene products.

What is also important is to teach the child to contact a specialist if any problem arises.

Do not be too zealous, wash your intimate organs frequently and thoroughly, especially use antibacterial products for feminine hygiene.

Since ancient times, folk remedies for intimate hygiene have been used to care for oneself. History speaks of Cleopatra's milk baths and baths filled with rose petals. Babies were bathed in decoctions of string and chamomile; the same remedies were used for itching and diaper rash in the groin. And the first midwives advised both drinking and washing women before childbirth with brewed nettle. To heal wounds, only the traditional method was used, and chafing and irritation were treated with natural remedies and there were no allergies.

Celandine, water, sage leaves, coltsfoot, calendula and lavender flowers, birch and poplar buds and even oak bark can wash, heal, and heal. Today it is easy to purchase them; dry herbs are sold in every pharmacy. The packaging contains detailed instructions for use. Washing with herbal decoctions is a universal method, very accessible, and has no contraindications. The medicinal herb and its life-giving abilities formed the basis of many creams and intimate hygiene products.

Rules of intimate hygiene

There are no difficulties in the rules of intimate hygiene. The main thing is to wash yourself with clean hands and clean water at least once a day. Each woman chooses her own intimate hygiene product. This can be brewed celandine or antiseptic gel.

In more detail the rules are as follows:

• use clean water at room temperature (this delicate area is not for cold water);
• move your hand from front to back, towards the rectum (if in the opposite direction, there is a risk of infection with bacteria from the intestines);
• use soap for washing as little as possible - it dries out the mucous membrane, which leads to microcracks;
• do not use washcloths to avoid injury to the delicate mucous membrane of the labia;
• wash only the outside of the genitals;
• do not use antifungal cream, tablets, douches for itching and discharge without a doctor’s prescription;
• Do not spray antiseptic aerosol on the mucous membrane, it can burn and impair sensitivity.

During menstruation, you need to wash yourself much more often. A filled pad is a powerful source of germs, so it is recommended to change it at least 4 times a day. Each time the gasket is replaced it is accompanied by washing.

Do not be too zealous, wash your intimate organs frequently and thoroughly, especially use antibacterial products for feminine hygiene. The body is not sterile; the woman has natural secretions. If they appear in small quantities, are white or transparent in color, and are not bothered by their smell, do not worry. To be completely sure, you need to consult a gynecologist.

How to replace soap

Taking into account the shortcomings of toilet soap for the hygiene of intimate areas, special products are produced that replace it. Each of them has properties that maintain a neutral acidity level (pH). It preserves the natural environment of the vagina, thereby preventing the development of microbes. This is the main difference from soap, which dries out the mucous membrane of a woman’s genital organs with an alkaline environment. At home, you can add apple cider vinegar to water, a tablespoon, and this will change the environment from alkaline to acidic.

The most popular intimate hygiene products:

• antifungal gel Lactacid;
• TianDe moisturizing gel;
• healing antibacterial gel Carefree with aloe for intimate hygiene;
• liquid bacterial soap “Green Pharmacy”;
• Intimate gel from Nivea.

Antifungal gel Lactacid has a delicate pleasant smell, cleanses and disinfects, moisturizing from TianDe contains aloe vera, chamomile, sage, lemon balm extract, vitamins A, B 12, E, C, D. The latter gently and delicately cleanses the skin. Carefree healing antibacterial gel with aloe for intimate hygiene has a light, delicate scent, does not contain alcohol, soap, chemical fragrances, and has a neutral acidity level.

Liquid bacterial soap "Green Pharmacy" is based on tea tree extract and includes vitamin B5. The product has an anti-inflammatory effect. This is a good antiseptic, in addition, such soap is able to heal microcracks. And Intimate from Nivea is a very soft gel for everyday use, does not contain soap, its healing base includes chamomile extract.

When to use the cream

In cases where chafing from tight underwear occurs, allergic rashes and redness, burns, inaccurate depilation, or the integrity of the skin is compromised, a cream for dryness in the intimate area is needed. Treatment of peeling, redness, irritation, and itching in the intimate area is carried out with panthenol.

Panthenol in the form of a cream is a well-proven antibacterial cream for dryness in the intimate area - it is a light-structured preparation that adds elasticity to the skin.

Panthenol is produced in the form of an ointment for healing wounds and cracks caused by dryness in the intimate area.

When a fungal infection occurs, if there is itching in the intimate area, it is recommended to use clotrimazole, which slows down the growth of fungi in cases of thrush and other fungal infections. It is used externally as an ointment for treatment and cream for the intimate area.

Thrush is a common fungal disease. Its treatment begins with thorough washing. The following solutions are used for this:

• potassium permanganate;
• aqueous soda solution;
• water and vinegar in a ratio of 10:1.

These remedies will help relieve irritation and itching in the intimate area, and reduce the amount of discharge from thrush in the intimate area. But this is how they only give themselves first aid: in order not to aggravate the situation, in the future you need to seek advice from a doctor.

Hygiene in the absence of water

During a long flight or train trip, a vacation in a tent, or a water supply emergency, it is necessary to wash yourself no matter what. You need to think through this process in advance and prepare a hygiene product. You can do this using sanitary napkins. Of course, they will not replace water, but they can easily clean the surface of intimate areas. Buy several packs. First they wipe their hands, then with a new napkin they wipe their private parts. You can also use an antiseptic aerosol or disposable pads, which can be changed frequently to maintain a feeling of freshness.

Live long and happy

As a child, it is difficult to imagine how intimate life will influence a happy life. It is from childhood that the habit of keeping one’s body and linen clean is developed. This largely depends on the parents, mother, grandmother or teacher. Listening to their teachings or observing their behavior, the girl begins to repeat, take care of her body herself and choose the best gels for intimate hygiene. During this period, it is important not to teach false shame, not to be afraid to study your body, to explain the importance of intimate hygiene, and to carefully choose a cleanser or soap for yourself.

The girl needs to be explained that hygiene will ensure the following:

• health of the genitourinary system;
• healthy sexual relationships with a partner;
• positive effect on reproductive function;
• self-confidence, will not be distracted by an unpleasant odor in an intimate place.

The responsibility for the continuation of the human race does not lie with oral hygiene, nor with general body hygiene. It starts from childhood, with intimate hygiene. Nature, like a folk doctor, tells you what to do and how to do it. There are many cosmetic products, and all are created so that a woman can take care of herself with pleasure.

Many women carefully monitor their appearance: they visit spa salons, a hairdresser and a cosmetologist, and pay special attention to makeup and figure. After all, you must agree that in order to be desirable and successful, you must take care of yourself. But today we will talk about an issue in which even the most sophisticated fashionistas are sometimes ignorant - intimate hygiene.

Perhaps someone will be surprised: what’s so complicated about this? However, there are a number of rules that, if followed, will help a woman (or girl) avoid many female diseases. So, let's talk a little more about how to wash yourself properly.

How to wash your face properly as a woman?

For a long time, the delicate question of how to properly wash a girl (or woman) in our country did not arise at all - it was considered something forbidden and almost indecent. Women knew that they needed to wash themselves with soap at least twice a day. As a result, the acid-base balance of the vagina is disturbed, and we have such an unpleasant disease as thrush. But that's not all. Few people know that cystitis only in half of the cases occurs as a result of hypothermia, while the remaining 50% of women get sick due to violation of the rules of intimate hygiene.

What is the best way to wash yourself?

Choosing a personal hygiene product requires following a few simple rules:

• It is not advisable to use ordinary soap for washing: it creates an alkaline environment, which is an ideal place for the spread of bacteria;
• the best option is an intimate hygiene gel containing lactic acid and a pH level of 3.3;
• when choosing a gel, pay attention to its composition: it is desirable that it does not contain fragrances, dyes, soap or other alkaline compounds;
• Also, you should not purchase a gel with a strong odor and a long shelf life (over 1 year);
• There is no need to use a washcloth and sponge for washing - there is a risk of damage to the mucous membrane of the intimate area. You may not feel microscratches, but they will become an excellent breeding ground for bacteria.

We wash ourselves only with our hands! Naturally, they must be clean. In rare cases, you can use a sponge to care for the bikini area, but only very carefully.

How should you wash yourself?

This part of daily hygiene should be carried out at least 2 times a day (morning and evening), as well as before and after sexual intercourse. Of course, ideally you should wash yourself after each visit to the toilet. But while you are at school or work, it is not possible to do this, so you can use special wipes for intimate hygiene.

Of course, the method of carrying out the procedure is also important:

• When washing, the water should not be too cold (this can cause inflammation) or hot - the ideal temperature is about 30 degrees;
• the stream of water must be directed from top to bottom (from the vagina to the anus), otherwise there is a risk of infection from the anus;
• It is also impossible to direct the stream directly into the vagina: this washes away the protective natural lubricant that prevents the penetration of pathogenic microbes;
• Do not roughly rub the genitals with a towel; it is better to gently blot them.

How to wash yourself properly during pregnancy and during menstruation?

It is very important to follow all the rules of intimate hygiene during menstruation. On such days, you should wash yourself every time you change tampons or pads. Let us remind you that pads need to be changed approximately once every 4 hours, and tampons - once every 3 hours. During menstruation, you should not take a bath, visit the pool or swim in bodies of water.

During pregnancy, it is also important to approach this procedure with particular care, because possible inflammatory processes will threaten not only the health of the mother, but also the unborn baby. In the first trimester of pregnancy, you need to carry out the procedure in the same way as usual. But at a later date, due to discomfort caused by changes in figure, it is better to use a special bench for washing, which can be placed in the bath.

Sanitary pads for every day

Probably, almost all women know that they need to change panty liners once every 4 hours, because on their surface there is an accumulation of secretions, which are an excellent breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria.

Women's health is a special thing. Here the slightest problems can lead to serious consequences. How often do women run around clinics, undergoing numerous examinations and taking various tests. But gynecologists constantly remind us that daily adherence to simple rules of intimate hygiene can prevent many inflammatory and infectious diseases. The only thing 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 make a number of mistakes during hygiene procedures, which lead to a weakening of the microflora of the genital organs and an increased risk of contracting infectious diseases. How to do everything right to maintain your health?

Intimate hygiene rules for women

How to wash yourself properly?

Before washing, be sure to wash your hands with soap. 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 not cause irritation or even inflammation. We wash only with our hands and direct the stream of running water from front to back so as not to transfer bacteria from the rectum to the genitals. Those microorganisms that perform useful 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 bathtub. This will also increase the risk of dangerous bacteria entering your vagina.

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

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

Do I need to douche?

Douching is washing the vagina with water. And if the woman is healthy, there is no need to douche. Ordinary 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 lasts only a few days. If you douche every day for no reason, this will lead to disruption of the vaginal pH, 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.

Afterwards, you just need to wash your genitals with water. If there is some sperm left inside, there is nothing to worry about. Sperm cannot lead to such negative consequences as frequent douching.

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

How to get rid of unpleasant vaginal odor?

An unpleasant odor from the vagina is most often a sign of genital disease. Therefore, before trying to get rid of it, you need to visit a doctor and get tested, especially if the smell has appeared recently.

If a faint odor is constantly present, this may be due to the characteristics of the body. People themselves very rarely smell themselves, but, nevertheless, it can be unpleasant for a sexual partner. And in this case, it is necessary to take action.

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

Products for intimate hygiene for women

Soap for intimate hygiene

Regular 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 proliferation 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 carefully, cleansing and relieving irritation. Its acidity is close to the natural environment of the vagina, and it also contains more moisturizing components.

When choosing a gel, you should pay attention to its color and smell, or rather, their absence. Intimate hygiene products should not contain dyes or fragrances that can cause allergic reactions. It would be good if the gel contains lactobacilli, which help maintain 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 odor during pregnancy, and are also more reliable. Therefore, many women still often use them. Both tampons and pads need to be changed 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 growth 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 underwear. Any woman experiences a small amount of discharge during the day, which leaves a mark on her panties. And pads help keep your favorite underwear clean. But still, for your health, it is better to use simple cotton panties and just wash them. And if you use pads, you need to change them every 3-4 hours.

First, we must acknowledge that all women smell. You should not try to eliminate normal odor.

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

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

Fourthly, when wiping after defecation, they go from the anus back. Place your hand/arms behind your back while drying yourself.

Fifthly, a woman does not need to douche. Avoid it, or only use the 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 absorbing. Cotton is breathable, so it helps keep your genitals dry.

Seventh, if you have a confirmed vaginal infection, 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. Additionally, when you are at home, you should wear loose cotton shorts to allow more air to enter the genital area.

Eighth, do not put off visiting a doctor if you notice an unpleasant or unusual odor. The genitals and vagina are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria because they are dark, warm, and humid. The sooner you start treatment (pills, cream or both), the faster you can get rid of the bad odor.

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

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

From childhood, mothers teach their daughters that a woman should keep her private parts clean and remember to wash herself 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 wash products, wet wipes, tampons and much more. But their diversity does not mean that any one will suit you. Each woman is individual, and therefore she needs special personal care products.

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

How often should you wash your face?

On ordinary days, it is enough to wash yourself twice – in the morning and in the evening. Try to wash yourself more often during the days. Each change of a pad or tampon should be accompanied by a light ablution. In addition, you should rinse your genitals after intimacy (with any method of contraception). Select a special towel that you will use only to wipe your intimate area so 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 disturbances and other unpleasant problems. Use only clean, not too hot water. Don't wash yourself with cold water!

What product should I use for washing?

Soaps and shower gels, so often used by many women, are fine for the hands and body, but for the mucous membrane of your private parts, soap is the enemy. Instead of gently cleansing delicate skin and maintaining the acid-base balance, soap dries it out, killing all bacteria - both beneficial and harmful. 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 genital organs. But remember, you should look for high-quality intimate hygiene gel only in pharmacies, and not in cosmetic stores.

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

How often should you change panty liners?

If you use panty liners, you should change them every 4 hours. If you are concerned about heavy vaginal discharge, this is a reason to consult a gynecologist. The discharge usually contains bacteria, which begin to multiply very quickly in a warm, humid environment, especially in hot seasons. Therefore, rarely replacing sanitary pads can cause vaginal dysbiosis, which, in turn, leads to very serious problems - inflammation, adnexitis or even cystitis and urethritis. Neglected, undetected and untreated 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, can choose pads or tampons to collect menstrual flow. Each of these means has its own pros and cons. Pads are good because they do not come into contact with the walls of the vagina and cannot injure the delicate skin of the genitals. But bacteria grow in pads very quickly, so they need to be changed every 2-3 hours. Tampons do not come into contact with the external environment, so bacteria develop somewhat more slowly. But, being in the vagina, especially if inserted incorrectly, a tampon can injure the mucous membrane and cause inflammation of the vaginal wall. If you experience discomfort when using tampons, for the sake of your health you should avoid them, no matter how convenient they may be. But even if tampons do not cause discomfort, you should not use them constantly; try to alternate with pads.

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

Is it possible to douche to maintain cleanliness?

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

Which underwear should you prefer?

For everyday wear, gynecologists recommend underwear made from natural materials. Cotton panties allow air to pass through well, absorb excess moisture and prevent the genitals from overheating. On the contrary, synthetic underwear becomes fertile ground for the proliferation 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 bad will happen if sometimes you wear beautiful lace lingerie for a while. The main thing is to follow all other hygiene rules.

Take these simple recommendations into your daily self-care routine. By following them, you will feel fresh and confident throughout the day. By maintaining intimate hygiene, you will save yourself from the risk of vaginal dysbiosis, infections or inflammation of the female genitourinary system.

Issues of female intimate hygiene have only begun to be covered in recent decades 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’s face. Such ignorance often ends in an appointment with the treating gynecologist and leads to long-term treatment.

Basic rules of 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 with soap once a day is wrong. Let's look at how often and how best to wash a woman's face:

You should wash your genitals 2-3 times a day;

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

Do not wash with too hot or cold water;

Temperature control is an important part of proper care of the genitals. Too hot water negatively affects the natural moisture balance, and dry skin in the intimate area brings a lot of inconvenience. However, a 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 intimate hygiene products;

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 clean and disinfect the skin. The ablution procedure should be carried out only with clean hands, without using a washcloth or sponge. The flow of water is directed from the pubis towards the anus, which helps to avoid infection by bacteria living in the intestines. Among intimate hygiene products, there are a number of narrowly targeted ones, created for daily care during the menstrual cycle or answering the question of how to wash yourself with thrush.

Many girls are interested in how to properly wash their inner women.

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

You can also watch a video on the topic “Intimate Hygiene”.

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

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

It is necessary to wash only with clean hands. Therefore, first wash them with soap, paying attention to the subungual area, because bacteria and microbes accumulate in large quantities there. 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 the direction, you can easily and quickly introduce a serious infection into the genital tract. After all, E. coli comes out of the anus, which, if washed incorrectly, is quickly transferred forward and begins to actively multiply, causing serious infectious diseases that require long-term and painful treatment.

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

When washing, do not direct the shower stream inwards. This way you will quickly wash away the natural internal lubricant that protects the woman’s genitals from infections. As a result, they will become defenseless against germs. Many ladies claim that washing with chlorophyllipt, for example, helps them achieve freshness. However, experts are confident that douching and washing the vagina is a therapeutic procedure, and it can only be performed on the recommendation of a doctor with strict adherence to the instructions. They resort to this method only if there is a burning sensation in the vagina or an unpleasant odor appears from the genital tract. In any case, you should first consult a doctor.

You should also not rub the delicate intimate area with washcloths. Firstly, the risk of injury to the delicate mucous membrane is quite high. Secondly, bacteria accumulate on sponges and washcloths, which can then easily be transferred to the genitals, causing inflammation.

Particular attention should be paid to the products that ladies additionally use for personal hygiene. You cannot use regular soap for washing - it is too harsh for a delicate and sensitive area. It is recommended to use special products with a neutral acidity level.

After washing, the genitals need to be dried. To do this, you will need a special towel, which must be soft. Naturally, it must also be clean - it is advisable not only to wash it, but also to boil it and carefully iron it. You need to dry the genitals by blotting - under no circumstances should you rub the tender area.

If it is not possible to carry out complete washing, for example, you are on a long journey all day, etc., you can use special wet wipes designed for intimate hygiene. They, of course, will not replace a shower, but they will help temporarily restore a feeling of cleanliness and freshness.

How to wash yourself for pregnant and nursing mothers

Particular attention to personal intimate hygiene should be paid to pregnant women and new mothers. This is due to the fact that active hormonal changes occur in the body before childbirth, which also affects the intimate area. And after giving birth, a woman begins to have discharge, which must be washed thoroughly to avoid infection.

Ideally, expectant and existing mothers should wash themselves after every trip to the toilet. If this is difficult to do, for example, a woman is working, 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, pregnant women will have to choose a position that is comfortable for themselves. After all, not everyone, due to their growing belly, is comfortable washing themselves traditionally while standing.

Tip 2: How to properly perform feminine intimate hygiene

Much 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, unpleasant diseases such as bacterial vaginosis, urogenital candidiasis (thrush) can develop, and the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (trichomoniasis, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis) also increases significantly , 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% is made up of other microorganisms - cocci, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, etc. In this case, the pH of the environment is normally acidic 3.8-4.5. This level of acidity creates favorable conditions for the proliferation of good bacteria (lactoflora) and prevents the proliferation of other microorganisms. This implies the importance of proper intimate hygiene, maintaining a normal pH range, the desired ratio of flora.

Rules of intimate hygiene

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

You only need to wash your genitals 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 intimate hygiene products that are sold in pharmacies and marked “tested by obstetricians, gynecologists and dermatovenerologists.”

The 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 daily sanitary pads, pay attention to their thickness and materials, and try not to wear one pad all day.

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.

Douching should not be used as part of your basic intimate care routine. If you feel an unpleasant odor, then this is a reason to consult a doctor and begin treatment.

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

Sources:

• Intimate hygiene rules for women and men and care products

A girl’s mother usually tells her how to wash herself properly, but for some reason we forget about these rules, and only remember when we acquire some kind of intimate disease. Therefore, every girl (woman) needs to know how to wash themselves correctly and the best way to do it.

How to properly wash a girl (woman)?

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

1. What is the best way to wash a woman's face? An ideal option would be a special gel for intimate hygiene with a neutral acidity level (pH). Such gels will not dry out the vagina and will maintain its acidic environment, which will protect the genitals from the growth of bacteria. Gels for intimate hygiene also moisturize the vaginal mucosa. You should not wash yourself with soap, it disrupts the natural environment of the vagina and creates an alkaline environment, and bacteria multiply very well in it. By washing yourself with soap, you risk getting an infection and acquiring a disease of the genital organs.
2. You need to wash only with clean hands and only warm water. A huge number of germs accumulate on your hands every 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 serious inflammation. And they, as we know, require long-term and unpleasant treatment. The movements must be made from the pubis to the anus, and in no case vice versa - otherwise you risk getting an infection from the anus.
3. Do not direct the stream of water directly into the vagina. This will wash away the protection the body needs and allow pathogens to get inside. Some experienced women will say that this rule is stupid, because they wash the vagina during douching. Firstly, this procedure is therapeutic in nature, that is, it is carried out when the problem has already appeared. Secondly, douching is carried out with medicinal compounds. 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 you shouldn’t rinse your vagina with running water, you’ll only harm yourself.
4. Under no circumstances should you wash your genitals with sponges or washcloths; your hands will do this job just fine. And with a washcloth, you risk damaging the mucous membrane, which will allow pathogens to enter your body. If you use a washcloth to treat the bikini area between epilations, do it carefully so as not to touch the genitals.
5. The towel for intimate organs must be separate, clean and soft. A hard towel can scratch the mucous membrane, which, as mentioned above, is dangerous to health. You should wipe your intimate organs carefully, blotting them carefully. The cleanliness of the towel must be maintained very carefully - it must be washed as often as possible (boil ideally) and ironed with a hot iron to reduce the risk of bacteria transferring from it to the genitals.
6. How often should you wash your face? 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 they need to wash themselves before sex; not a single woman will miss this procedure. But not everyone knows whether to wash themselves after sex. Experts answer this question unequivocally: no matter how much a woman wants to fall asleep, washing herself after sex is the right thing to do, and this should always be done.

How to wash yourself properly for pregnant women?

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

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

Steps

Keep your vagina clean

Wash only with hot water. It may seem counterintuitive, but cleaning your vagina with soap, whether hard 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 between 3.5 and 4.5 to prevent bacterial growth and promote the development of good microflora. Using strong cleansers can upset this balance, which can lead to infection, irritation and even unpleasant odors.

• People usually refer to 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 residue remains. Soap inside the vagina can cause irritation.

1. Do not use feminine perfume sprays. They are designed to give your vagina the scent of flowers, but in fact the effect is exactly the opposite. They flush out all the good bacteria, which cleans and protects the vagina from infections. Chemicals from sprays can cause irritation and even burning. If you use all other hygiene methods, you won't need to hide your scent.

   • Fragranced creams, which are offered as a way to change vaginal odor, cause the same problems, so they should also be avoided. The same can be said for scented pads and wipes.
   • If you feel like you just need to cover up your vaginal odor, buy natural, chemical-free products. You can create your own body spray by mixing a few drops of an essential oil such as rose, lavender or lemongrass with water in a spray bottle. Use the spray after showering and only get dressed when your skin is completely dry.
   • There is no evidence that douching prevents infections and STIs.

2. Maintain good hygiene during your period. For many women, infectious diseases worsen 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 often. 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 pads (including panty liners) for longer than necessary. Pads, both regular and panty liners, can cause irritation if used throughout the month.
   • Consider getting 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 and can help you if tampons and pads cause irritation.

3. Wipe from front to back. It is very important to move in this direction, and not the other way around, so that fecal particles or any other product containing fragrance or chemicals do not end up in the vagina.

Get Healthy Habits

Wear cotton underwear. Cotton underwear dries quickly and allows air to circulate through the fabric. This prevents the formation of moisture that promotes the growth of fungus and harmful bacteria that can lead to infection. Linen made from 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 on the skin and restrict air flow, which often leads to fungal infections. Try to wear looser, lighter fabrics that are well ventilated. Wear skirts and dresses more often, and choose tights that are low-rise rather than waist-length. Choose loose-fitting shorts.

   Always change wet clothes. If you walk around in a wet swimsuit or tracksuit after working out, you will develop a yeast infection. If necessary, bring extra clean, dry underwear with you, and put them on as soon as possible after swimming or exercising. You may also need an extra kit for emergencies.

   • If you decide to shave your intimate area, be very careful not to cut yourself with the razor. Use shaving cream (it should not 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 first that you 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, you are literally open to bacteria and other microorganisms, which can result in irritation of the vagina and lead to infection. Solution? Wash your vagina with warm water after sex. This will significantly 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're prone to infections, shower with your partner to reduce the risk of bacteria entering your body.
   • Use dental dams and gloves for added protection during oral sex or finger stimulation.

3. Pee after sex. Pee after sex, even if you are going to shower. 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 the vaginal area and avoid genitourinary tract diseases.

   Use condoms. Sperm and vagina have different pH levels. If sperm remains in the vagina after sex, it disrupts 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 cope with this problem. If you don't want to use condoms, clean up the semen immediately after sex so it doesn't have time to affect the pH of your vagina.

Proper nutrition and exercise

Eat plenty of yogurt. Yogurts contain the same type of beneficial bacteria that your vagina needs to stay healthy. You can restore the bacteria count in your body by including yogurt in your diet. Using yogurt, you can 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 is available in capsule form.

1. Eat plenty of fruits. Cranberries, pineapple, strawberries and other fruits help freshen the smell of vaginal secretions. Your vagina won't start to smell like fruit, but it may become more pleasant if it's ever bothered you. Fruits also contain a large amount of water, and hydration helps the body flush out toxins that may be causing bad odor.

   Consume less sugar, processed carbohydrates and alcohol. Sugar can make yeast infections worse, so it's important to limit your sugar intake. Don't add sugar to your food and read food packaging to make sure it doesn't contain added sugars. Also, stay away from processed carbohydrates and alcohol, as they contain a lot of sugar.

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

   Do Kegel exercises. Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic and vaginal muscles. 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 these instructions:

   • Determine where these muscles are located. To do this, pretend that you stopped peeing in the middle of the process. It is the muscles that you are currently squeezing that the Kegel exercise is aimed at.
   • Squeeze your muscles and hold for three seconds, then relax. Repeat 15 times.
   • Continue doing Kegel exercises every day, holding for longer periods and doing more repetitions.

2. Find out more about how to exercise your vagina. The vagina is also strengthened by sex and pleasure, since sex keeps it elastic and toned. Regular sex is a good way to keep yourself in shape. 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 pharmaceutical medications. Most women get yeast 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 anti-fungal medications also come with a cream to relieve irritation and burning in the vulva area.

   • If you are pregnant, be sure to consult your doctor before taking any medications, even if you are sure you have a yeast infection.
   • If you are not sure if you have a yeast infection, you should visit your doctor. A fungal infection can be identified by a cheesy yellowish discharge with a bad odor, itching and burning in the vaginal area, a rash on the vulva, burning and pain.
   • If the infection persists for more than a week, make an appointment with your doctor to be prescribed medications to help treat the infection.
   • Drink natural cranberry juice
   • Take an STD test with your partner. This way you will be sure that everything is fine with you. Don't be afraid, your health depends on it.
   • Removing hair from your intimate area will make your vagina look fresher and cleaner.
   • Do not wash your vagina with soap or other products that contain chemical ingredients. They cause irritation and infections.
   • Always bathe regularly and use plenty of water. ESPECIALLY if you are 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. Advanced STDs can create many problems.
   • If you experience breakthrough vaginal bleeding—a small amount of blood between periods, bleeding that lasts a week, or very heavy bleeding—consult your doctor. You may have some kind of disease.
   • If you have problems with persistent vaginal odor (especially if it is a fishy odor), see your doctor. You may have vaginosis.