How to take care of your Vagina?

The vagina comprises more than 200 different types of organisms for its overall health and hygiene. It usually consists of Lactobacilli species, which can utilize glycogen with the help of estrogens (a hormone that usually presents in females to help in the development of the reproductive system). Fermentative microorganisms present in the vagina give the vagina an acidic pH. Due to the presence of lactic acid and its acidic nature vagina has a certain degree of stability and ability to withstand some infections. Like antibacterial substances, cytokines, defensins, and others against dysbiosis, infections, and care for a normal pregnancy without preterm birth.

Cervical Cancer

Changes in vagina microbiota can increase the chance of cervical cancer. It can also change the overall nature of vagina microbiota. The diversity of vaginal microbiota was higher in women with cervical cancer compared to normal women in this study. Also, enrichment of anaerobic bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Peptostreptococcus anaerobius, and Porphyromonas uenonis was detected in women with cervical cancer.

How to take care of the vagina:

• Never use any product in the vagina. It can hurt vagina microbiota and can cause vaginal infection.
• The best way to clean the vulva is to use warm water and unscented soap. Never use gel products.
• Genital hair is healthy. It can help to prevent infections.
• Always urinate before and after sex.
• If you are putting anything in the vagina first clean it properly.
• Use body-safe sex toys.
• Clean your vulva before and after sex.
• Wear breathable clothes.
• Changing out of wet clothing quickly.
• Participate in cervical screening.
• Most important: Tell your man to clean his hand and his penis before touching you. 

Reference:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30848142/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27161352/

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/keeping-your-vagina-clean-and-healthy/

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash