Although it may seem like a hygienic practice, removing hair from the pubic area can favor the appearance of infections of different types, since it acts as a barrier.
Most women are very careful when it comes to their intimate hygiene. The fear of infections and bad smells makes many pay special attention to this area of their body. However, in the effort to eliminate any fluid or odor, many end up adopting bad habits that can harm the health of the vagina.
The problem is that this area is very sensitive and its pH can be altered by the use of chemicals, inappropriate underwear and a variety of other factors that are overlooked.
For this reason, although some practices in your intimate hygiene habits seem healthy, it is important to know why they can be harmful and how to avoid them.
Contents
1. Excess douching
According to the experts of Women’s Health , douching is not recommended, since instead of providing benefits, all they do is alter the vaginal flora and increase the risk of infections and developing discomfort.
So, although they seem an effective way to eliminate bacteria and bad odors concentrated in the intimate area, they are not convenient.
Hygiene-habits What to do about it?
Instead of doing this type of washing, the ideal is to wash the external parts with a mild soap (suitable for intimate hygiene) and water.
Follow the gynecologist’s recommendations.
2. Use intimate protectors
The intimate hygiene products industry has been in charge of convincing its consumers about the need to use protectors and similar products to avoid discomfort due to fluids and odors.
The truth is that its daily use can be counterproductive , since they suffocate the area and increase the chances of itching , irritation and other annoying symptoms. These types of products are fine to use from time to time and it is better to remove them from your daily shower routine to avoid problems.
What to do about it?
The ideal is to limit the use of these elements as much as possible. For example, they can be used before and after the menstrual period.
To keep the area cool, it is best to wear breathable underwear made of cotton fabrics and not too tight.
3. Apply perfume or talcum powder
One of the bad habits that have transcended over the years is the application of perfumes, talcum powder and other intimate hygiene products that irritate the area.
Although they were long thought to be effective methods of preventing excess flow and odors, today it is known that they can cause unwanted effects by causing pH runaways. Its frequent use produces irritation in the external parts of the vagina and, many times, affects the appearance of yeast and bacterial infections.
What to do about it?
There is no reason to be ashamed: the vagina has a particular odor that should not be neutralized.
If the smell is too strong, it is important to see the gynecologist to determine if there is an infection .
4. Rub the area roughly during your intimate hygiene
Careful! The skin that lines the vaginal area is more sensitive and requires special treatment. Some exaggerate when they are grooming it and rub it roughly. In this process, small wounds can be produced that become the door for the entry of infectious agents, so we must wash the area with some gentleness and care.
What to do about it?
Gently apply the soap and rub gently with your fingers or the palm of your hand.
5. Remove pubic hair
Today it is common for women to think that total pubic hair removal is synonymous with good intimate hygiene. The truth is that, although it has been given this label, it is a misconception. The hair on this part of the body has a special function : they are responsible for protecting the vagina against bacteria, yeasts and viruses that can cause infections .
In addition, many depilatory methods are aggressive and cause irritation and damage to the skin . This, undoubtedly, can also produce some complications.
What to do about it?
Choose a minimally invasive hair removal method. Depilatory creams and natural depilatory products are a good option, unless some type of skin allergy is perceived during use.
Try to leave a little hair so as not to leave the area unprotected.
If you use razor blades, discard them after each use.
Do you practice any of the habits mentioned? Although we know that your intention is to keep your vaginal area clean, it is better that you try to correct these errors so as not to cause uncontrols to its natural pH and thus protect yourself from possible infections.
