1) Regular soaps are not suitable for washing your intimate zone
Most soaps and body washes are alkaline, designed to maintain the pH of 10 or neutral, which have a pH value of 7. However, the normal pH value of a healthy vagina is between 3.8 and 4.5. Regular soap can disrupt the natural vaginal flora and enable the fast development and multiplication of harmful bacteria. As a result, you may experience infections, rash, even pain and abnormal discharge. Most gynecologists agree that the biggest problem for American women is over washing, since your vagina is, for a lack of a better word, a self-cleaning oven. They recommend using only warm water, but if you feel that this is not enough, choose washes that are designed for intimate care, with pH of 3.8 – 4.5.
2) Wipe from front to back
Wiping after a bowel movement seems like a trivial task. Yet, there is a healthy and safe way to go about it. Start from the front and move backward. In women, the openings of the anus and vagina are fairly close together. If you wipe from back to front, you increase the risk of bringing bacteria from the anus into the vagina. This move can trigger bacterial vaginosis, a vaginal infection characterized by a fishy smell, discharge, and itching. It is also marked by a burning sensation that amplifies when you urinate. So make it a point to start from the front and move to the back.
3) Wear cotton underwear
Cotton underwear enables the skin to breathe and absorbs moisture better than synthetic materials. Unlike cotton, synthetic materials prevent the circulation of air, increase the humidity, which creates the perfect environment for spreading of harmful bacteria. Wear comfortable cotton underwear every day and save synthetic lace panties for special occasions. If you absolutely can’t say no to lace panties, try choosing ones that have cotton inseam. Also, in order to avoid infections, avoid wearing very tight pants or jeans.
4) Choose organic pantiliners (or do without them)
Most gynecologists do not recommend using pantiliners every day, especially if they are made of synthetic materials or are scented. That kind of pantiliners, even the thinnest ones, can cause allergies. They have the ability to alter your vaginal flora, which may increase the risk of infections. If you do prefer to wear pantiliners, choose organic, such as eco-certified Genial Day pantiliners with anion strip.
5) Change your pad every 2 to 4 hours
If you choose to wear a traditional pad, change it every 2 to 4 hours. Doing so will ensure that you feel clean and fresh, as well as help you avoid skin irritation or infections. Synthetic materials are not air permeable; therefore, bacteria start multiplying as soon as 20 minutes after the first contact with the skin. If things don’t feel right, especially if you experience rash or skin irritation every time you menstruate, it probably means that you should discontinue using this brand and look for safer alternatives. Genial Day menstrual pads with FAR-IR Anion strip provide superior comfort and protect your most intimate body parts from unpleasant odor and harmful bacteria. If necessary, Genial Day pads can be worn all day.
