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8 tips to keep your vagina happy and healthy

Your vagina is home to many friendly bacteria. A change or imbalance in these bacteria can lead to infections. Read our simple tips to keep your vagina healthy.

The vagina, like the rest of our body, needs to be kept clean. All it takes are a few simple changes to be followed regularly. Vaginal health depends upon your overall health and immunity. Besides these tips, a healthy diet, regular exercise, sound sleep, and reduced stress are essential for good health.

Yeast infections
Excessive growth of yeast can trigger infections. They are quite common. Yeast is naturally present in the vagina. Symptoms of vaginal yeast infections are itchiness, soreness, burning sensation while passing urine or during intercourse, or white or colourless discharge.
You can also catch yeast infection if your immune system is down or if you take antibiotics.

Yoghurt and probiotics help counter yeast infections as they have anti-fungal, antibiotic, and antibacterial properties. However, one must immediately consult a doctor if any of these symptoms occur.
Birth control and yeast infections
If you’re a yeast infection prone woman or have experienced repeated yeast infections, consult your doctor before going on birth control with high levels of estrogen. Consider switching to birth control that is predominantly progesterone.
Healthy undies
That sexy lingerie could also mean trouble. For regular wear, always go for cotton or silk lingerie. They absorb moisture and help to keep the vagina dry. It is better to avoid synthetic, nylon, or blended materials that hold moisture close to the skin. The fancy, sexy lingerie can be used for special days!
Scented products: stay away
Scented soaps, deodorants, and perfumed pads or tampons can disrupt the vagina’s natural balance. The vaginal smells in a certain way because it is meant to do so. The vagina can also clean itself.

Just don’t forget to change your pads and tampons regularly, otherwise, they can provide a home for nasty bacteria to grow.
Keep things dry
It is advisable not to sit around in your wet swimsuit or sweaty gym clothes. Moisture can give bacteria a happy space to grow. Also, try to avoid extremely tight fitting pantyhose, tights, jeans, and leggings for long periods. Even they can cause bacteria to grow and lead to infections. Opt for loose airy clothes like skirts, dresses that offer regular airflow.
Daily cleaning
The vagina should be cleaned properly daily. Front to back to avoid anal bacteria entering the vagina. All you need is water and a mild, unscented soap. There is no need for douching! That can just mess up the bacterial balance.
Post-sex hygiene
Cleaning up after intercourse or masturbation is important. It is advisable to pee after sex or take a shower with baby soap. Residual body fluids or lubricants may lead to infections.
Toilet trouble
It is preferable to avoid western style public toilets unless they are disinfected well. You aren’t susceptible to yeast infections but public toilets could be infected with other dangerous and unknown bacteria. Better safe than sorry!

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