Discussing the health and well-being of your private parts is not easy, whether it’s your partner or your GP. It makes us feel embarrassed and uncomfortable but looking after your privates should be a priority for any woman. Here are some tips for keeping an eye of the well-being of your lady bits:
Did you know it’s a self-cleansing organ?
You don’t need to use perfumed soaps or cleaning products to keep your privates fresh. All you really need is a regular wash with warm water whilst taking a shower or bath. Using harsh soaps can cause the area to dry out, especially around sensitive parts like the vulva. Your privates have everything they need to stay healthy, harbouring lots of good bacteria that work hard to make infection-fighting antibiotics. These bacteria help keep everything lubricated nicely, secreting small amounts of clear or cloudy mucus as a way of cleansing itself. The quantity and texture of this discharge changes during the course of your menstrual cycle.
Let your bits breathe
It’s good practice to keep your private parts dry and aired by wearing comfortable cotton underwear and not thongs! Tight-fitting clothing can cause sweating, chafing and a build-up of bad bacteria, increasing the temperature and moisture.
Safe Sex
Always keep yourself protected against the risk of sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhoea, syphilis, warts, herpes and chlamydia. Using condoms can also help keep the pH levels healthy in your private parts as it stops harmful bacteria from entering your body. If you think all is not as should be downstairs, consider using Home STI kits London.
Get infections sorted
Some infections can cause symptoms that include itching, soreness and changes to your discharge. Any sign of infection should be seen and treated by a GP as soon as possible. By delaying treatment, you could be suffering unpleasant symptoms for longer and risking further health complications fin the long-term. Home STI kits London can help identify if the infection is a sexually transmitted one.
Eat Well
You might find it surprising that what you eat can impact your vaginal health. For example, Greek yoghurt and cranberry juice is helpful to treat yeast infections. Food containing soy, water, avocados and apples are said to help lubrication, while almonds, garlic and sweet potatoes are also thought to have benefits.
Be sensible
If you follow a regular and effective hygiene routine, you should find it easy to keep your parts in tip top condition. When you are having your period, always change sanitary towels or tampons regularly.
If you think something’s not right, see a GP or gynaecologist. Some potentially more serious symptoms include:
Problems with your period, such as if it’s heavier than normal, lasting longer and/or more painful than usual.
You are experiencing pelvic or stomach pain accompanied by a green, grey or yellow discharge with a strong odour.
You haven’t had a period for 3 months or longer.
You have pain during intercourse.
