It’s the timeless question that young women have been asking their moms for generations if feminine hygiene product advertisements are to be believed. Don’t listen to them.

While scenes of lush parks and beautiful beaches may inspire feelings of “freshness,” you don’t need a special product to keep your vagina clean.

Don’t Remove What Your Vagina Needs

Vaginal cleanliness can be confusing because the things that we want to wash away are things that your body needs. The vagina contains a delicate ecosystem of bacteria and acidity. Both are needed to maintain good pH levels.

Douching is a method of cleaning that uses a store-bought mixture. It’s squirted into the vagina to flush out what’s inside. Despite those charming commercials, it’s not a great choice because it can disrupt that delicate environment your vagina needs to prevent infections.

How Can I Be Clean Without Cleaning?

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t clean yourself. It just means that you need to know the right way to do it.

The best way to get that oh-so-fresh feeling without risking your reproductive health is to only clean the exterior with soap and water. Yes, it’s that simple. The same way you wash your arms, legs, and behind your ears.

Also, keep in mind that the vagina can be sensitive, so you should avoid using anything harsh or heavily fragranced. These can irritate, and no one wants that. If you notice discomfort or aren’t sure what to use, contact Women’s Health in West Bloomfield for an OB/GYN appointment.

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