Alright ladies, this week I’m talking all about feminine washes. You know, like Summer’s Eve, Vagisil, etc, I’m sure you’ve heard of them. I get a ton of questions from you all about these washes–if we need them, and so much more, so in today’s post, I’m giving you the truth about feminine washes. Of course, if you have any questions, please drop me a comment and let me know what you’d like me to touch on next!
Are feminine washes better than soap?
When it comes to vulvar and vaginal care there’s one thing I want you to know: all you need is warm water and a gentle soap! I know we see on the market a lot of feminine washes and even douches! But I promise you, the vagina is a self-cleaning organ! It doesn’t need any help from scented washes and harsh soaps. So, inside of the vagina–just warm water. For the vulva, it’s okay to use warm water and a gentle soap. I personally use Dove sensitive skin, zero fragrance and I love it. Used it for years. No harsh scrubbing, just some soapy water and rinse!
Do feminine washes throw off your pH?
Yes, they can! Which is the reason we don’t recommend using feminine washes. They can throw off the pH of the vagina and then ultimately lead to infections such as BV (bacterial vaginosis) and yeast infections. The vagina has it’s own flora (full of bacteria) and disrupting this flora can lead to very uncomfortable infections!
Do we need to use feminine washes? If not, why?
I know there are so many different products on the market telling you you need to smell like flowers, use a certain wash etc etc but I’m here to tell you as an OBGYN and your friend–you DON’T need these products! You are perfect the way you are! And if you happen to notice abnormal smell or discharge, go see your OBGYN 😉 that’s why we’re here!
If we don’t need feminine washes, why are there so many options on the market?
Honestly–I think this has to do with money….it’s always about money, isn’t it? These are billion-dollar companies that are profiting from making you feel vulnerable and like you need to look/feel/smell a certain way. It’s toxic and unnecessary. The vagina is happy on its own, it doesn’t need any help!
Any tips if you are dealing with odor down there?
Go see your OBGYN! Any sudden changes to your discharge, any burning, itching, foul odors, etc should be evaluated by an advanced medical provider, whether it’s an OBGYN or women’s health provider! Please don’t try any of the “at-home remedies” it could be an infection and we don’t want it to get worse!
