Sometimes it feels like everyone is trying to tell us what to do with our vaginas - whether they have one or not. Vaginal health isn’t supposed to be complicated, and it’s definitely not supposed to involve buying a ton of useless products.
With that in mind, here are 5 tips you can use to keep your vagina healthy, clean, and vibrant.
Ditch the Soap
Yes, you read that right - the fancy soaps aren’t helping. You can still use a delicate unscented soap for the vulva if you like, but in most cases, all you need are your fingers and warm water. Scented soaps, douches, and other products can destabilize your vagina’s pH balance and cause irritation or infection, even if they claim to be designed for vaginal use.
Try a Yoni Massage
A yoni massage is a meditative dedicated massage of your vagina that involves total relaxation. If you’ve never meditated before, it might take a little extra effort to slow your mind and calm your thoughts at first - but it’s worth it.
This slow and tender practice focuses on your erogenous zones and can even lead to orgasm. Like any massage, it increases blood flow and relaxes your muscles. This can lead to healthier skin, more pleasurable orgasms, and even pain relief.
Self-Pleasure Is Healthy
Masturbation isn’t just about feeling good; it’s actually a way to improve your sexual health. Like a massage, masturbation increases blood flow. However, it can also help relieve menstrual cramps and muscle tension (which is even more effective with a vibrator), as well as reduce stress and help you sleep.
It also strengthens your pelvic muscles, which makes your vagina stronger and less prone to pain or muscle cramps.
What not to Wear
A vagina that can breathe is a happy vagina, and the most common breathable material is cotton. Silk or polyester, on the other hand, can trap moisture around your vulva and breed smell-producing bacteria.
You don’t need to throw out your favourite silk underwear, but definitely don’t wear them every day. In fact, experts suggest not wearing underwear to bed at all and avoiding tight clothes when possible.
Take Care of Your Skin
If you want to use any ointments or creams, make sure they’re unscented and paraben-free. For irritation, dryness, or itchiness, use a bit of coconut oil as often as you like. You can also use vegetable oil, coconut oil, or white petrolatum. These options are often cheaper than pricey ointments and better for your skin.
There’s a lot of misinformation regarding vaginal health, so check with your doctor about any products you’re unsure of or issues you might have.
By Aliyah Moore.
Aliyah is a therapist with a Ph.D. in Gender & Sexuality Studies and a resident sexpert who helps people embrace their sexuality. She often writes about sexual wellness and relationship educational guides. Find out more about her work, here.
