5 Simple Ways to Look after your Vaginal Health

From feminine wash products, to ‘essential’ supplements, to the bewildering array of underwear styles, looking after your vaginal health can feel like a minefield. But the reality is, that for most people, maintaining good vaginal health is fairly easy and most good practice will fit comfortably into your everyday routine.

There are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure you feel as comfortable and clean as possible.

1. Washing & Hygiene

The vagina is self cleaning and therefore you can mostly rely on your body to keep you clean. Wash your labia daily with warm running water or with a perfume free gentle soap if you prefer. Avoid using perfumed or stringent soaps as these can be irritating and drying in such a sensitive area. Some people find themselves tempted to wash continually or with stronger soap when dealing with a yeast or bacterial infection but this is likely to exacerbate the problem so stick to gentle cleaning. 

2. Underwear

Natural fibres are by far the best option for vaginal health. Cotton works the best as a fabric for underwear as it is light and soft so less likely to irritate as well as being breathable and absorbent. Synthetic fibres trap your body’s natural moisture and sweat, encouraging harmful bacteria to multiply. Opting for organic cotton, dyed without toxic dyes, also means avoiding bringing harsh chemicals close to the skin which may irritate or be absorbed in a sensitive and highly absorbent area.

3. Clothing

As well as your choice of underwear, the clothing you wear can be helpful in promoting vaginal health. Try to avoid wearing tight clothing, particularly synthetic fibres such as exercise leggings, for long periods of time. If you have been exercising or your clothes are wet, try to change out of them and wash as soon as possible to avoid harmful bacteria being able to multiply. Although it is up to your personal preference, you might find it beneficial to avoid wearing underwear overnight to allow good air circulation while you sleep. Opt for loose fitting, breathable pyjamas - like Y.O.U's Organic Cotton Drawstring Pyjama Bottoms.

4. Food

Maintaining good vaginal health is just like any other part of your body. Eating a healthy and balanced diet will support your general vaginal health through supporting your immune system, promoting healthy blood and circulation, and vitamin levels. Some foods may help with reducing recurrent infections, such as pure cranberry, with its high levels of antioxidants and acidic compounds, for fighting UTI’s. The beta carotene and vitamin A found in sweet potato can help reduce BV infections by keeping the vaginal walls healthy. Promoting healthy levels of vaginal bacteria through eating fermented foods such as live yoghurt, kefir, and kimchi also contributes to reducing infection.

5. Exercise

Making sure to get regular exercise will complement a balanced diet to support vaginal health. Walking and pilates are great for strengthening your pelvic floor which will contribute to your overall vaginal, bladder, and bowel health. Be careful when doing exercise which may strain your pelvic floor, such as heavy lifting, and ensure you engage your core to keep the muscles supported.  

Ultimately, looking after your vaginal health is personal to everyone, and you will know best what feels right and what doesn't. Make sure to choose underwear that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you notice anything unusual, or you are struggling with recurrent infections, be sure to visit your doctor and try not to be embarrassed - they are professionals and will have seen it all before!

For more tips and information:

Read our breakdown of the Best Fabrics for your Underwear

Check out our guide to Sustainable Spring Cleaning

And why choosing Organic Cotton is a win for you and the planet

Images courtesy of Y.O.U Underwear and Canva