What you need to know about Vaginal Health
Dr. Meg Tantillo, DNP, APRN
If you have a vagina, there are a few things you should know. 🐱
Photo by pvdephotography
The vagina is a self cleaning organ.
Soap or douching may disrupt the vaginal flora and pH. When you’re in the shower, wash your body and let the soapy water run over your vagina. You don’t need to wash with soap inside. If there is an odor, try washing with a gentle, non-scented soap. If the odor continues, see your provider to be tested for BV and yeast. This is commonly done with the Affirm test.
Take off wet gym clothes.
Tight, damp clothing creates a favorable environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. Take off your exercise gear after your workout, and shower if you can. Wear clean, cotton underwear (like Knickey) and let her breathe at night. 😌
Washes, wipes and sprays are totally unnecessary.
And potentially harmful! Your vagina works to maintain a healthy pH and vaginal flora. Washes, wipes and vaginal sprays can disrupt the pH and alter the flora, making you more prone to yeast and bacteria infections.
The vagina flora is primarily made of lactobacillus species of bacteria. These bacteria work to increase the pH of the vagina, by producing lactic acid. An acidic vaginal pH is a natural defense to infections like yeast or imbalances such as BV.
Groom as you please!
Shaving, waxing, or nothing at all, groom as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. Pubic hair does have a purpose, though. Hair down there can lessen friction during sex and prevents the spread of bacteria and other pathogens. But no judgement, you do you! And no, you don’t have to shave for your provider. We really don’t care. 😂
What you see on the outside is your vulva, not your vagina.
The vagina is actually the vault that connects your vulva to your cervix. It is the canal baby travels through when being birthed vaginally.
Everything you see on the outside, the opening of the vagina (sometimes called the vestibule), the labia majora (outer lips), the labia minora (inner lips), and the clitoris is your vulva. There are many variations of vulvas! Each is unique and totally normal.
Probiotics may help, especially if you are prone to yeast and uti’s.
Several strains of Lactabacillus have demonstrated to have positive effect on the vaginal flora. Lactobacillus produce lactic acid, creating an acidic environment, unfavorable for yeast and other pathogens to take hold and grow. Choose a multi-strain probiotic to support vaginal flora health.
Megan is a doctorate prepared family nurse practitioner who health coaches women and families online. Her primary goal is to help her clients make informed health care decisions and live healthier and happier lives.