Do we need to wash INSIDE the vagina?
Theres no need to routinely wash inside vaginas because they are self-cleaning ovens, according toDr.
This helps keep vaginas clean, explainedDr.
Alyssa Dweck, a gynecologist and chief medical officer at Bonafide Health.
Once this happens, its possible to become irritated or develop infections.
That doesnt mean people need to take special precautions to keep cleansing products away from their vaginas completely.
Victoria Scott, a urogynecologist and one of Eilbers co-authors.
Christine Greves, an obstetrician-gynecologist.
However, there is a rare exception.
Even though the insides of vaginas shouldnt be cleaned regularly, sometimes they need to be rinsed.
Jennifer Anger, a urogynecologist.
You should not use soap or cleansers when performing a cleanout.
Do we need to wash around the vulva?
Unlike the inside of the vagina, the outside, called the vulva, is not self-cleaning.
She recommends washing the vulva whenever someone bathes.
Cecilia Zhang, an obstetrician/gynecologist at Atlantic Health System inNew Jersey.
Because the vulva is delicate, Dweck emphasized that vigorous scrubbing is not needed, and may be harmful.
She recommended cleansing the vulva with hands or a soft washcloth.
Both methods are effective, and which one someone uses is solely a matter of personal preference.
Allowing your vaginal area to breathe is important, Zhang said.
According to Dweck, even with regular washing, vaginal scents are normal and may vary throughout someones cycle.
However, some vaginal odors may indicate an infection.
Which products are safest to use for cleansing the vulva?
Its not a great idea to reach for regular soap or body wash before cleaning down there.
For most people, a simple warm water rinse is sufficient, Zhang said.
Specifically, she recommended avoiding products with parabens that can cause hormonal disruption.
Greves emphasized that you dont need cleansers or soaps that claim to be made just for the vaginal area.
Those are likely to cost more without any additional benefit.
When in doubt, Eilber said to keep things simple.
Less is more when it comes to the vagina.
Treat your vulva like delicate skin, she said.This article originally appeared onHuffPost.
