Optimising your vaginal health
Why does vaginal health matter?
Vaginal health is essential for overall well-being. It helps prevent infections, supports reproductive health, and maintains the balance of beneficial bacteria, reducing the risk of issues like UTIs, yeast infections, and discomfort during sex. A healthy vagina also promotes hormone balance and boosts self-esteem by preventing unpleasant symptoms like odor, itching, and pain.
Like other parts of our body, the vagina has its own microbiome that requires proper care and nutrition to function optimally. This microbiome is particularly sensitive and needs extra attention to maintain its balance and protect against infections.
Common symptoms of poor vaginal hygiene include a fishy smell, itching, lumps, an inflamed vulva, pain during intercourse, painful urination, and frequent urination. Prioritizing vaginal health not only prevents these issues but also contributes to both physical and emotional wellness.
If you notice persistent symptoms like unusual discharge, odor, itching, or pain, consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation to rule out infections or underlying health conditions.
Ways to Support Your Vaginal Health
Hygiene: Your vagina is self-cleaning—how cool is that? Just use clean water to wash the outer area. Avoid soap, as it can disrupt your pH balance. And remember, always wipe from front to back when using the bathroom to prevent bacteria from spreading.
Scented Products: Avoid using scented soaps, tampons, pads, or douches, as these can irritate the delicate vaginal tissue and disrupt the natural pH balance, leading to infections.
Underwear: Wear breathable underwear made from cotton or bamboo. These fabrics allow air circulation and help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to irritation or infections.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water! Proper hydration helps maintain natural moisture levels and aids in flushing out excess toxins, which benefits vaginal health and overall well-being.
Diet: A balanced diet is key! Incorporate prebiotics (fiber-rich foods) and probiotics (like yogurt or fermented foods) to support your vaginal flora and reduce inflammation.
Sex: Always practice safe sex to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use a condom, especially if you have multiple partners, and get regular STI checks. Both you and your partner should maintain hygiene before intimacy. Always urinate after sex.
Stress: Chronic stress can throw off hormones and trigger inflammation. Find ways to manage stress—whether through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises—to nourish your nervous system and keep your body balanced.
Menstrual Cycle: No matter what menstrual products you use (pads, tampons, or menstrual cups), change them regularly—every 4-6 hours—to avoid bacteria buildup. Always wash your hands before handling these products, and ensure menstrual cups or reusable pads are cleaned thoroughly.
Discharge: Pay attention to your discharge throughout your cycle. Changes in color, consistency, or odor can signal an issue. Being aware of these changes helps you identify any potential infections or imbalances early.
Exercise: Strengthen your pelvic floor with Kegel exercises to support vaginal health and improve bladder control. Regular exercise also promotes overall circulation and reduces stress.
Clothing: As comfy as activewear can be, it might contribute to your symptoms. After exercising, change into fresh clothes and take a shower to remove sweat and bacteria. Opt for loose-fitting clothes afterward to allow your vagina to breathe and avoid trapping moisture, which can lead to irritation or infections.
As a naturopath, we can take a deeper look into your vaginal health and explore ways to optimize it. If you're experiencing discomfort or recurring UTIs, it's important to seek professional help to address these concerns. We are all about preventative care using naturopathic principles.
