It can also make it more difficult for her to get pregnant in the future.įinally, many women simply hope douching will eliminate vaginal odors. In fact, douching increases a woman's risk for infection. It also provides no protection against STIs.

Douching does not protect against unintended pregnancy. Some women even believe that douching can offer protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Many women chose to douche because they associate the practice with a 'fresher' and 'cleaner' feel.Īfter a menstrual period or sexual intercourse, women hope douching will wash away menstrual blood or semen. While cleaning the exterior genital area is sufficient for feminine health, some women believe that it's necessary to clean the interior of the vagina as well. When washing the vulva, it's important to avoid getting soap into the vagina. Many women also choose to use a mild soap that doesn't irritate the tender skin. Warm water is sufficient and safe for this daily cleaning.

This includes the vulva and its folds, which protect the vaginal opening. However, these DIY mixtures can be even more dangerous than store-bought products.ĭaily feminine and overall hygiene involves washing the exterior genital region. Some women make their own douches using 'recipes' they find online. A nozzle or tube is used to insert the mixture into the vagina. Store-bought douches come in a bottle or bag. These products are prepackaged and include a mixture of water and baking soda, iodine, or vinegar. To 'douche' means to 'wash' or 'soak.' Douching is the process of using water and other fluids to clean the inside of the vagina.ĭouching products are commonly sold in stores. Read on to learn more about douching, including its purpose, risks, and alternatives.

Douching is unnecessary and can be harmful to a woman's overall health. However, some women also purchase douches.Īre these purchases money well spent? What is a douche? Is douching safe? Does it promote feminine health? In fact, the answer to each of those questions is no. Many of these dollars purchase basics, like pads and tampons. Worldwide, this figure increases to $20.62 billion annually. women spent $5.9 billion on feminine hygiene products.

Lume acidified body wash ingredients