Is it important to wash your vagina using soap?

Oleh: dr. M Ardianto AIrlangga, Sp.OG

The cleanliness of women's intimate organs or what is commonly called Miss V is a special concern for women, there are many myths and facts circulating in maintaining Miss V cleanliness which are polemics in the general public. One of the information that often beats is cleaning Miss V using soap, but is washing Miss V using soap the right thing to do? Let's discuss further.

Women are often worried about the cleanliness of their intimate organs so they start cleaning Miss V using feminine soap, even though Miss V is an intelligent organ because it is "self-cleaning"

What is meant by "self-cleaning"? Miss V actually has a very effective natural cleaning mechanism, the vaginal walls produce fluids containing good bacteria that function to maintain the pH balance of the vagina and protect against infection. Excessive use of feminine soap can disrupt the pH balance, cause irritation, and increase the risk of infection. The use of cleaning solutions/soaps containing antiseptics is also not recommended for long periods of time because it can disrupt the balance of normal vaginal flora.

How to Wash the Vagina Properly?

Washing the vagina only needs to use warm water, gently clean around the folds using your hands, but avoid water or soap from entering your vagina. How to clean the urethra after urinating is also important to note because its location is close to the vagina so it can affect vaginal hygiene. The recommended method is to dry it with disposable tissue and wipe it from front to back, if it is still not dry, use a new tissue in the same way. In addition, it is also recommended to wash the anus and the area between the anus every day.

When is the Right Time to Consult a Doctor?

If you have complaints in your vagina, consult an obstetrician and gynecologist if you experience:

1. Pain when urinating, having sex, or masturbating
2. A very disturbing/pungent odor from the vagina
3. Thick discharge from the vagina
4. There are abrasions, wounds, or warts around the vagina
5. Itching in the vagina that does not go away
6. Continuous vaginal bleeding, outside the menstrual schedule

In addition, you should pay attention to signs of infection that may occur such as itching, burning, or abnormal discharge. Then, avoid douching, which is spraying the vagina with water or certain solutions

Maintaining Miss V's cleanliness is very important but it is not recommended to do it excessively, washing Miss V is enough using warm clean water then drying it gently. Then, don't forget to use underwear that is safe for the skin and change it regularly.

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