Vaginal Douching – Yes Or No?

6.06.2011 | By: K. Z.

Is vaginal douching really healthy or could it cause more harm than good? Read about it in the article.

Don’t overdo it when it comes to intimate hygiene. (PhotoXpress)

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Vaginal douching means cleaning the vagina by rinsing it with water or water mixed with antiseptic solution with the intention to wash off vaginal discharge. There are several solutions and soaps on the market today for vaginal douching. Some are available only with a prescription and used to heal various diseases or to prepare for medical procedures. In this article, read about what else they’re used for and if a vaginal douching is really as healthy as it seems at first sight.

Reasons for vaginal douching

Women usually mention several reasons why they douche:

- to rinse eventual remains of menstrual blood at the end of menstruation;

- after sexual intercourse as a form of pregnancy prevention or as protection against sexually transmitted diseases .

- to get rid of or to reduce the unpleasant smell of the vagina. In this case it is better to visit a doctor, as vaginal douching can make the problem of vaginal odor even worse.

- to get the feeling of cleanliness.

However, it’s important to be aware that a vaginal douche is neither a method of birth control nor a proper protection against sexually transmitted diseases. In both cases it is necessary to use a condom or another form of contraception.

Is vaginal douching healthy?

Many health care professionals state that vaginal douching is not healthy at all. Vaginal flora has a low pH value, which protects it from infections, various bacteria and fungi, which can’t survive in acid environments. Regular vaginal douching (and also other factors like stress, medical treatment with some antibiotics, hormonal changes during menstruation and pregnancy, weakened immune system, contraceptive pills) can change the chemical balance in the vagina, which leads to increased sensitivity, various infections and inflammations. Bacteria can also enter the vagina by douching, and even spread from the cervix to the womb and ovaries causing serious health complications. Scientists report that vaginal douching can actually increase the possibility of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. It can lead to bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis because the chemical imbalance caused by vaginal douching makes the mucous membrane more sensitive to harmful external influences. It is recommended to leave the vagina to clean itself – that is what discharge is for. Wash only the external parts with delicate, non scented soap. The most suitable products are those intended exclusively for intimate care.

When to seek medical help?

As with any other part of our body we have to pay attention to all the changes of the vagina which can be an indication of something more serious. Visit your gynecologist if you experience any of the following signs:

- vaginal aches: itching, irritation or burning feeling;

- unusual, unpleasant smell of vagina;

- unusual discharge, which is either of greenish-yellow color, white and thick or cheese-like discharge, possibly accompanied by unpleasant smell;

- aches and an unpleasant itchy or burning feeling during or after vaginal sexual intercourse;

- painful and burning urination.

All these signs can be symptoms of various inflammations or infections, which are usually completely curable, so don't hesitate to visit your doctor.