Women’s Day: Feminine Hygiene: When To Start? What To Avoid; A Sample Feminine Hygiene Routine

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As women, we learn of the importance of hygiene down-under from a young age - because it really is that important!

Firstly, feminine hygiene is nothing more than a marketing gimmick used to sell products such as panty liners, tampons, sanitary pads, cleansing lotions, gels, and a host of perfumed and non-perfumed cosmetics.

In fact, it may be argued that the sole purpose of feminine hygiene products is to shame the owners of vaginas and make them believe their down-under aka lady parts are in need of special attention.

In the past, we have been led to believe that using these products keeps you and your genitals clean, while not using them makes you dirty. This is not the case at all. While maintaining personal hygiene is essential, it should never be viewed with shame.

As far as feminine hygiene is concerned, it is nothing more than personal hygiene [1].

What is the ideal age to start developing a feminine hygiene routine?

As early as possible, according to experts. Parents should explain to their children the importance of cleaning between each toe and brushing their teeth as well as caring for their genitals.

Sample Feminine Hygiene Routine For Everyone With A Vagina!

Ladies, you do not need a 12-step program.

In the shower:

If you have ever seen discharge in your underwear - provided that it does not have a new odour or colour - your vagina is functioning properly.

On the other hand, the vulva does not self-clean [2]. The use of mild, fragrance-free soap in the shower along with water and your fingertips will suffice.

After going to the bathroom:

While wiping after pooping and peeing, it is imperative that you wipe separately your anus and vagina. This means wiping one area, discarding the used paper, and then wiping the other [3].

Just peeing? Be sure you always wipe from front to back. And if you wipe each area separately, that is not an issue.

After sex:

Pee! Peeing helps remove any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse, which can reduce the chance of a UTI. You can also swish water on the vulva with your finger, but do not scrub or wash internal parts [4].

During pregnancy:

During pregnancy, the last thing you want is foreign bacteria to take over, so experts recommend using fewer cleansing products [5].

During menopause:

Experts recommend additional supplements to keep the vulva skin moisturised from the inside out and outside in vitamin E, vitamin C, multivitamins, and collagen protein after menopause [6].

Grooming:

In addition to providing protection to the delicate vulvar skin during intercourse and other activities, pubic hair serves many important biological functions.

However, there is no research to support that pubic hair serves any particular purpose in terms of hygiene. However, if you choose to remove some or all of your pubic hair, the manner in which you do so matters.

If you use a razor, make sure it has a fresh blade every time. When you are finished, store the razor in your cabinet rather than on a shower ledge. This will help prevent mold and rust growth.

The application of a warm compress to the ingrown hair can help to open the pores and remove the follicle from the skin's surface.

Is it necessary to alter your feminine hygiene routine over time?

If you are experiencing unpleasant side effects or pain, then something needs to be changed.

Feminine hygiene products to avoid

There is no place for anything that claims to be "feminine hygiene" or "pH balancing." The vulva does not require pH balance, and the vagina is capable of maintaining its own pH level.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.