Vaginal douching risks and tips for proper intimate hygiene

Some women mistakenly believe that doing a vaginal douche (or gynecological douche, as it is also called) will be taking better care of their intimate hygiene. However, this measure is contraindicated by gynecologists. Learn why not to douche and check out the main tips to properly perform feminine intimate hygiene.

What is a vaginal douche?

Fabiana Nakano (CRM 107.869), gynecologist at Medicina Reproductiva Campinas, explains that the term refers to the act of washing inside the vaginal canal (the inside of the vagina), either with water or with an antiseptic product, soap intimate or even vinegar.

Is vaginal douching bad?

Yes, Fabian answers. “The shower throws the vaginal environment out of balance. It changes the pH, damages the mucosa and destroys the microbiota – the normal flora, which is responsible for protecting the vagina against infections. In addition, it can cause local allergic reactions, introduce bacteria and other substances inside,” explains the gynecologist.

When to use a gynecological douche

“Never, not as a habit of hygiene or as a contraceptive method. Well, believe it or not, there are people who think that the vaginal douche can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse!”, highlights Fabiana.

“But, it is worth stressing, the shower does not prevent pregnancy and, despite the feeling of cleanliness, the shower intensifies other discomforts, such as candidiasis”, warns the gynecologist.

How to do feminine intimate hygiene

• Clean the area with water and neutral soap. This is the best way, according to Fabiana;
• If you prefer, you can use intimate soaps, but it is worth mentioning that it is not a necessity, only an option;
• Both for those who are going to use neutral soap and for those who are going to use intimate soap, the gynecologist’s orientation is to use them only outside;
• Don’t spend “hours” washing the region so as not to remove the natural protection that women have in the region, guides Fabiana;
• Clean only with your fingers (in addition to water and soap), as sponges can be more aggressive to the region, and never rub too much;
• It is also not recommended to clean the area more than three times a day (once a day is enough).

That is, intimate hygiene should be done as simply as possible so that the pH of the region is not compromised, which would eliminate the natural protection of the vagina and facilitate the proliferation of harmful microorganisms.

How to do intimate hygiene after sexual intercourse?

The recommendation, according to Fabiana, is to wash the outside with soap and water. “Remembering that peeing after sex prevents urine infection”, explains the gynecologist.

Now you know why vaginal douching is not recommended and you have the guidelines to take care of your intimate health in the best possible way, knowing that “simple” is the most effective in this case. Enjoy and clarify your doubts about the use of intimate soap.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.