Vaginal secretion conditions and how to take care of vaginal hygiene –

Vaginal fluid, also called a discharge, is a common feature of all women of reproductive age. This secretion is actually a mixture of cells from the vagina and fluids from the female reproductive system, which together make up the vaginal flora. It is absolutely normal — in fact, the abnormal thing is not having it — and it changes consistency during the cycle. For this reason, we explain here the different states of vaginal discharge and the correct way to take care of vaginal hygiene.

VAGINAL SECRETION AND HYGIENE

Different from what some people think, vaginal secretion is actually a sign that the body’s internal hygiene system is working, as it serves as a ′′ self-cleaning ′′ of the vagina.

“If the woman has a lot of secretion, wearing cotton panties and changing them frequently is ideal”

Mariana Betioli, midwife

Despite this, there are still many taboos involved in the subject, especially for not leaving the panties “clean” after use, which can bother some people. Mariana Betioli, CEO of Inciclo and midwife, comments that getting your panties dirty is completely normal. “Pants were made to get dirty and washed, every woman has a wet vagina and every woman has secretions”, she points out.

STATES OF VAGINAL SECRETION: IT’S ALL A CYCLE

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The menstrual cycle is governed by the endocrine system, that is, hormone levels vary throughout the month and this directly affects the appearance of vaginal discharge, causing it to undergo some changes:

During menstruation and shortly after it ends, discharge is almost non-existent; As ovulation approaches, the discharge appears more creamy and whitish. During ovulation, the discharge resembles egg white and appears clear and sticky. In the luteal phase, which occurs after ovulation is over, the mucus becomes more fibrous and sticky.

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WHEN RUNNING IS ABNORMAL

To identify vaginal problems, Mariana asks for attention to changes in discharge. “If the secretion has a very strong and bad odor, it could be a sign of an infection,” she says. There are also other changes that indicate that you should see a doctor:

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presence of pain or burning itch very strong smell greenish-yellow or gray tone white texture in “plaques” (like cottage cheese) bleeding outside the menstrual or ovulatory period

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF VAGINAL HEALTH: VAGINAL HYGIENE

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To keep everything in order, hygiene in the intimate area must always be up to date. “Although, avoid the use of showers vaginal and bactericidal soaps to carry out hygiene, as these products can eliminate microorganisms present in the region that are responsible for maintaining the pH acidity of the vulva, which is a form of protection against bacteria and other pathogenic agents that cause diseases”, explains gynecologist Ana Carolina Lúcio Pereira.

Bactericidal soaps can eliminate the organisms responsible for keeping harmful fungi and bacteria out of the vagina.

Also remember that hygiene should only be performed on the vulva, the external part of the genital organ, avoiding vagina (internal channel). “A vagina accumulates less amount of dirt, not requiring asepsis. This region also has a less acidic pH. Therefore, any imbalance in its acidity level can facilitate the proliferation of viruses, bacteria and fungi”, says the doctor.

Cleaning should always be done in a front-to-back motion to prevent microorganisms present in the anus from being carried into the mouth. vagina, according to the gynecologist.

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“It is also worth avoiding the use of very tight clothes made of synthetic fabrics, as they muffle the intimate region and favor the proliferation of fungi and bacteria that can cause vulvovaginitis and other diseases, such as candidiasis. Therefore, avoid wearing very tight pants frequently and give preference to lighter fabrics that allow air to circulate properly, such as cotton”, advises Ana.

Maintain good lifestyle habits by adopting a balanced diet, exercising regularly, having a good night’s sleep and drinking plenty of water. All of this will keep your hormones at healthy levels and the vaginal flora, responsible for keeping harmful organisms away, stronger.

“And of course, remember to always use a condom when having sex, as it is the most effective way to prevent the transmission of agents that cause vulvovaginitis and other sexually transmitted infections”, emphasizes the doctor.