Intimate soaps have become one of the most used hygiene products by women. Are they beneficial? We discuss it here.
Intimate soaps have been marketed for several years as a complement to feminine hygiene. Whether in liquid, pill, or gel form, manufacturers claim to have formulas that are gentle, hydrating, and safe for sensitive “V” zone skin.
But despite their popularity, their use has become a matter of controversy. While advertisements claim they are a solution to keeping the vagina clean and odor-free, gynecologists warn that their regular use carries certain risks.
What should you know regarding this? Keep reading!
What are intimate soaps?
Products for female intimate cleansing are in high demand on the market. Among these, intimate soaps are generally the most used. These are cleansing formulas intended for areas such as the vulva, clitoris and vaginal opening.
They are marketed in liquid, pill or gel form, with a composition that promises to be compatible with the pH of the genital area. Its advocates assure that they help balance the vaginal flora and neutralize bad odors. In addition, antimicrobial and moisturizing properties are attributed to them.
Read also: 7 tips to take care of your intimate hygiene
Are they effective? Are they fulfilling their function?
To answer these questions, we must consider that the vagina has the ability to clean itself. As one article says du Center for Women’s Health , it is not necessary to put any product inside to ensure hygiene.
In general, an external wash (of the vulva) with water, preferably lukewarm, is enough to keep the area clean. It can be supplemented with soap, provided it is neutral and fragrance-free.
That said, the application of intimate soaps is not necessary.
In any case, it is true that some formulas of this type of product refresh, cleanse and moisturize the outer parts of the intimate area. But since any substance that comes into contact with the vulva can easily enter through the vaginal canal, care must be taken.
In case of opting for cleansers of this type, these must be tested by dermatologists and recommended by gynecologists. Likewise, they should be hypoallergenic and free of fragrances. These characteristics can be found on their label.
Is it safe to use intimate soaps?
Most of the intimate soaps available on the market claim to be respectful of the vaginal pH and the delicate skin of this area. Even so, evidence suggests that their use has more risks than benefits.
A study shared by Microbial Ecology in Health and Disease determined that using vaginal products can be harmful to bacteria Lactobacillus, responsible for maintaining a healthy vaginal environment.
In itself, their application is associated with an alteration of the vaginal immune barrier, not only because it destroys les Lactobacillus, but also because it promotes a pro-inflammatory environment that increases the risk of disease. The result ? Increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections, general bacterial and fungal infections, and irritation.
In fact, as research shared in Womens Health, this is linked to an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease and endometriosis. Although larger studies are lacking, for now the safest measure is to avoid both douching and contact with products that can be irritating (soaps, gels, creams, perfumes, etc.).
What is the correct way to clean the intimate area?
First of all, it should be remembered that the vaginal canal has blood vessels and bacterial flora capable of protecting and eliminating harmful microorganisms. Thus, we say that he respects a “self-cleaning” process without using external products.
However, it is important to clean the outer part of the labia minora, as cell and oil residue (smegma) tends to accumulate there, which can lead to a bad odor. Daily washing with water is usually sufficient to clean the area.
If you choose to use soap, it must be neutral and fragrance-free. To facilitate the removal of residue, a wipe or simply your fingers can be used. Other items, such as loofahs, are discouraged as they can cause irritation, tearing, and an increased risk of infection.
As for the frequency of washing, once a day is enough. Washing the area less is usually not enough to remove the remnants of sweat and secretions. However, excessive washing is also not recommended, as it can cause an imbalance of the vaginal microflora.
Other recommendations for the care of the vagina
Beyond avoiding the use of irritating intimate soaps when washing the intimate area, there are other treatments that contribute to your health. Let’s take a closer look at the most important ones:
- Avoid the daily use of intimate protectors. These affect the ventilation of the area and create an environment for bacteria to grow.
- Wear cotton underwear. Unlike synthetic fabrics, cotton facilitates the ventilation of the area. In addition, it is suggested that it be white clothes or beigebecause those of color may contain dyes that alter the vaginal flora.
- Always wash from front to back. This is to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria from the anus to the vagina.
- Avoid very tight clothing. The jeans and pants that are too tight tend to create a warm, humid environment that facilitates the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Read also: Vajacial: what does this treatment of the intimate area consist of?
Is it practical to use intimate soaps?
When weighing the benefits and risks of intimate soaps, it is clear that there are no more possible harmful effects. Evidence suggests that rinsing with these types of products can alter the vaginal microbiota, which translates into an increased risk of infections and inflammatory diseases.
Doctors and gynecological professionals suggest that hand washing with water is the surest way to keep this area healthy. It is still possible to use a neutral soap without perfume.
Intimate soaps tested by dermatologists and approved by gynecologists also seem to be safe for vaginal hygiene. In any case, its use should be reserved only for the external area (vulva and clitoral hood), since no product should be introduced into the vaginal canal.
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