a guide to a healthy vagina

see also:

• gynaecology

• see https://jeanhailes.org.au/contents/documents/Resources/Booklets/The_vulva.pdf - Jean Hailes Women's Health - patient information booklet on vulval health care for women (pdf) for more details
• Don’t use any soap or perfumed bath products to wash your vulva – only use water or soap substitute
• Never use talcum powder on your vulva (seems it may increase risk of ovarian cancer)
• Avoid swimming in chlorinated water if you can
  • After swimming, change out of swimwear immediately, shower to remove chlorine or salt and avoid wet clothing
• Wear cotton underpants rather than synthetic
• Wash underwear in pure, unscented soap and rinse them well
• Wear loose-fitting pants, avoid G-strings (may increase transport of rectal bacteria to vulva), pantyhose and tight jeans
• When urinating, lean forward to avoid a burning sensation
• After urination and/or bowel movements, always wipe or pat from front to back, using white unscented toilet paper
• It may help to bathe with a salt wash after you have been to the toilet or had sex
• Use 100% cotton sanitary pads and tampons. Menstrual blood may irritate your vulva, so consider using tampons
• Avoid using commercial lubricants with intercourse; natural oils such as olive or almond oil may be more suitable.