Basic Women Should Know

This is about female hygiene. The vagina of a healthy woman secretes sufficient fluid to keep it moist. Cells are constantly being shed from the lining of the vagina, and these cells, mixed with fluid, produce a nonirritating secretion. This secretion is unremarkable unless it is allowed to collect in the folds of the skin surrounding the vaginal opening. Careful daily bathing of this area will prevent unpleasant odor from developing, since odor usually comes from the labia and outer folds rather than from the vagina itself. Soap and water are perfectly adequate for cleaning. To prevent irritation, however, you should use a minimum of soap and wash it away with plenty of clean water.

When the normal vaginal secretion becomes excessive enough to stain clothing, or if it is yellow, irritating, watery, bloody, or bad smelling, then is called a vaginal discharge, or leukorrhea. This type of discharge may mean infection in some part of the genital tract. It is a warning signal that should send you to a physician for examination without delay. One way to prevent such vaginal infections is to avoid contaminating the genital area with bacteria from the anus. Toilet paper, for example, can spread germs unless it is used properly (wiping should always be done from front to back). Many women also find that wearing cotton underpants helps; a fabric that brethes, like cotton, allows moisture to evaporate, making it more difficult for germs to breed.

Douching seems to be a popular practice among many American women, but it is not necessary for good health. The normal vaginal environment is acid, which keep it free from undesirable bacteria. Douching does no particular harm, provided a mild acid solution such as vinegar and water is used; but it's not a good idea to use alkaline or commercial chemical douches, because they may neutralize the vagina's protective acids, allowing harmful bacteria to multiply.