"Must-Know Tips for Vaginal Care: How Can Women Achieve Optimal Vaginal Health?"
The female external genitalia possess a complex structure with numerous skin and mucosal folds, encompassing sweat glands, sebaceous glands, vestibular glands, cervical and vaginal secretions, as well as menstruation. Being situated between the vaginal opening in front and the anus at the back, they are more prone to vaginitis.
1. Menstrual Hygiene: Use properly sanitized toilet paper and sanitary pads, change underwear frequently, and dry them under sunlight. Wash the external genitalia with warm water before bedtime.
2. Prevent Fashion-Induced Vaginitis: Avoid tight-fitting pants with poor ventilation as they promote bacterial growth.
3. Prevent Indirect Infection from Venereal Vaginitis: Be cautious during swimming, saunas, and baths.
4. Sexual Hygiene: Avoid sexual intercourse or use condoms if your partner has a genital infection.
5. Avoid Misuse of Antibiotics and Hormones: They can disrupt the vaginal flora and lead to fungal infections.
6. Pregnancy Precautions: Pregnant women should not use vaginal cleansers as they can weaken immunity and cause fungal infections. Use doctor-prescribed medications if infected.
1. Frequency: Once a day.
2. Method: Use a shower with warm water. If unavailable, use a dedicated basin.
3. Order: Wash hands first, then clean the external genitalia from front to back, including the labia majora and minora, followed by the perianal area.
4. Cleanser: Choose a suitable cleanser under gynecological guidance. Use sparingly, preferably once every two weeks or during menstrual periods when immunity is low.
5. Expert Advice: Avoid routine vaginal cleaning. Consult a doctor if experiencing itching, burning during urination, abnormal discharge (gray, yellow-green, or blood-tinged), vaginal lumps, or odor.
Detail 1: Avoid unnecessary cleansers. Prolonged use disrupts vaginal pH and flora, increasing infection risk. Water is the best cleanser.
Detail 2: Do not wash underwear in a washing machine with residual water, as it promotes mold growth. Separate underwear from other clothes, wash by hand with soap, and dry in sunlight. Soak or boil underwear in hot water (above 60°C) to kill mold.