To wash or not to wash. Are vaginas self-cleaning? 

Today, most of us are self-professed skin care experts, each with our own intricate 10-step facial routines. Yet somehow, when it comes to cleaning our lady bits, we still awkwardly stumble around the topic.

Feminine wash, douches, soap or just warm water and some vaginal faith.

Is there a right – and wrong – approach?

We’re here to split fact from fiction. So you can understand your complex and beautiful vagina, take control of your vaginal health – and feel comfortable in your own body.

 

Navigating your vagina

Less than half of women can identify their lady bits. So you’re not alone if you struggle with that.

But don’t worry, we’re here to help you find your vagina from your vulva.

Vagina is often used as a catch-all term for women’s genitals. But there is in fact a delightfully intricate system going on down there.

The vulva is our genital’s exterior, and it includes the labia, clitoris, vaginal opening and urethra opening.

The vagina, on the other hand, is a muscular tube that joins the cervix and the vaginal opening.

 

So, what needs cleaning?

After a vigorous workout, or during your period, you may feel your vagina needs a little extra TLC and a freshen up.

Additionally, parts of our skin that have sweat glands, are restricted by clothing, or rub against other skin tend to get warm, sweaty or develop an odour. Your armpits, underboobs – and vulva – fall into this category.

While all hygiene practices are personal and you need to choose if they’re right for you, you may decide to wash your vulva – just like you would other parts of your skin.

Well, perhaps not just like.

Not all soaps are created equal. The skin of your vulva is more delicate and sensitive than skin on other parts of your body, and plain jane soap will not cut it.

Most regular soaps are high in alkaline, which can affect your skin’s acidic shield, causing irritation to your vulva as well as dryness.

 

How do you wash your vulva?

So if you feel that your lady bits need a refresher, all you need is warm water and a gentle, natural pH-balanced vaginal or feminine wash. Wash your vulva front to back with your hands, then pat dry with a clean towel.

That’s it. Simple.

But what about the vagina? Does that muscular tube inside us need cleaning?

Our vaginal flora maintains a delicate acidic pH balance (like a tomato!) that naturally deters infections.

Douching – or any other form of internal cleaning – only upsets the balance and can potentially disrupt your vagina’s self-cleaning ability, causing irritation.

Instead, trust your vagina to clean itself.

 

Yes, that’s right, vaginas self-clean

You know that stain on your undies? That’s your vagina’s cleansing ritual.

Vaginal discharge, together with friendly bacteria, help remove blood, semen, and old cells from the body.

But wait, why’s my discharge different today?

As you move through your ovulation cycle, you will experience normal changes in your discharge.

It can vary in appearance, texture and volume throughout your cycle. Some days it will be runny and milky, while other days it might be dry.

Every woman is different, so keep track of what’s normal for you.

 

Your vagina talks. Well, not literally.

When something isn’t right with your vagina, she will let you know.

If your delicate vaginal flora becomes out of balance or becomes infected, you will notice a stark change in your discharge.

A yellow, grey or green discolouration, a change in consistency or an unpleasant odour can indicate something’s wrong.

Thrush, for one, usually shows as a white curd-like and cheesy discharge. It will also often be accompanied by itchiness, soreness of the vulva or pain while having sex or urinating.

 

Dealing with discouraging discharge

We know discovering you need vaginal help can feel embarrassing – but it really shouldn’t be.

Most women will deal with vaginal health concerns, and about 75% of women will develop thrush in their lifetime. Sometimes repeatedly.

So you’re far from alone.

And you wouldn’t feel embarrassed by a throat infection. So why should a vaginal infection be any different?

Seek medical advice as soon as something looks or feel abnormal. Especially if there’s itchiness, burning or irritation.

Remember, your vaginal health is equally important as any other area of your health. So treat your body with the kindness and respect it deserves, and never hesitate to get the support it needs.

 

Maintaining a healthy vagina

We all need a helping hand sometimes. Even our dear vaginas.

Our mission at Kolorex is to empower women to take charge of understanding and caring for their vaginas. And our range of products are here to give you the extra support you need to feel confident and in control.

Our pH-balanced wash is certified free from chemical nasties – and is gentle enough to be used every day on your vulva. And our Vaginal Care Cream soothes, calms and supports your skin.

Give your vagina and vulva the care they deserve with Kolorex.

Learn more about Kolorex Vaginal Care Wash.