While the vagina is a self-cleaning organ, that doesn’t mean that you don’t need to pay attention to intimate care.
Vaginal infections are incredibly common in women, especially those who are in a sexual relationship, so you need to make sure that you are keeping your vagina healthy.
One of the most effective ways to do this is by having a good intimate care routine.
What is good vaginal health?
Although the vagina is a self-cleaning organ, it is prone to infections and irritations. This is because the vagina has a very specific environment that needs to be maintained.
More specifically, your vagina contains a balance of good bacteria and bad bacteria. However, if you experience a growth of bad bacteria, your vagina may become susceptible to infections and inflammation such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections.
Vaginal health also encompasses other factors such as your pelvic floor, which can be maintained by exercise, like walking and running, and overall good health.
Why is intimate care important?
As mentioned above, most women experience some form of vaginal discomfort or infection during their lives. Although some irritations can clear up on their own, many require treatment, either over-the-counter or from a GP.
If left untreated, vaginal infections are likely to worsen and can lead to other, more serious health problems.
However, by having a good intimate care routine, you are more likely to spot an issue before it gets too problematic, and you are less likely to experience vaginal discomfort in the first place.
If you notice any changes to your vaginal discharge, such as a change in colour or consistency, it can be a good idea to make an appointment with your GP or nearest sexual health clinic. This is particularly important if you have any other symptoms such as a bad odour, vaginal itching, soreness, pain when urinating, or abdominal pain.
