Many people, including women themselves, are unaware of some key facts about vaginal health. Here are a few surprising insights:
🌟The Vagina is Self-Cleaning
Many believe they need special washes or douches, but the vagina naturally maintains its own balance with healthy bacteria (lactobacilli) that keep infections at bay. Overwashing or using scented products can actually disrupt this balance and lead to infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) or yeast infections.
🌟pH balance matters more than you think
A healthy vagina has a slightly acidic pH (around 3.8-4.5), which helps prevent infections. Things like semen, antibiotics, menstruation, and some soaps can alter this balance, increasing the risk of irritation or infections.
🌟Orgasms can boost vaginal health
Regular sexual activity and orgasms improve blood flow to the vaginal tissues, helping maintain elasticity and natural lubrication. Orgasms also stimulate muscle contractions that support pelvic floor strength.
🌟Your diet affects your vaginal health
Foods rich in probiotics (yogurt, kefir, kimchi) support a healthy vaginal microbiome. Meanwhile, excessive sugar can feed harmful bacteria and yeast, increasing the risk of infections. Staying hydrated also helps with natural lubrication.
🌟Oestrogen plays a big role in vaginal health
As oestrogen levels drop (especially after childbirth, during breastfeeding, or menopause), women may experience vaginal dryness, thinning tissue, and increased sensitivity. Treatments like HRT, vaginal moisturisers, and HIFU therapy can help restore vaginal health.
🌟Urinary incontinence & vaginal laxity aren’t just “part of ageing”
Many women think bladder leaks or vaginal laxity after childbirth or menopause are inevitable, but pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), and vaginal HIFU treatments can significantly improve these issues without surgery.
🌟Discharge is normal, but know what’s not
Clear or white, mild-smelling discharge is healthy. However, grren, grey, cottage cheese-like, or foul smelling discharge can indicate an infection like BV, a yeast infection, or an STI. Changes in discharge should never be ignored.
🌟Tight doesn’t mean “Better”
A strong pelvic floor is important, but an overly tight pelvic floor can lead to pain during sex, difficulty inserting tampons, and even pelvic pain disorders like vaginismus. Balance is key!
🔥Your vaginal health = your overall health
Taking care of your vaginal health isn’t just about intimacy, it impacts your hormonal balance, bladder control, and even mental well-being.