Your vagina is self-cleaning. Read that again. You don’t need to scrub, wash with special soaps, or do anything extra to keep it clean. In fact, doing too much can cause more harm than good.
That said, there are right and wrong ways to care for your vagina. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay fresh without messing up your vaginal health, this guide is for you.
How to Properly Clean Your Vagina
First things first: your vagina and your vulva are not the same.
• The vagina is the internal canal – it cleans itself naturally through natural discharge and a balanced pH that flush out impurities and prevent infections.
• The vulva is the outer part (labia, clitoris, vaginal opening), and this is what you should be cleaning.
Here’s What to Do
1. Use warm water and mild, unscented soap (Femfresh or the Oriflame Feminelle wash is perfect. You can find it in most supermarkets). Wash the vulva gently with your hands. No need for sponges or scrubs.
2. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
3. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to avoid spreading bacteria from your anus to your vagina.
Here’s What NOT to Do
• Don’t douche (washing out the vagina with water or a mixture). Your vagina cleans itself. Douching removes good bacteria and increases the risk of infections.
• Avoid scented soaps, wipes, or vaginal perfumes. These can irritate the vulva and mess up your pH balance.
• Don’t scrub or use sponge. The vulva is sensitive so treat it gently.
• Don’t sleep in tight underwear. Let your vagina breathe at night.
Understanding Vaginal Discharge
A healthy vagina produces discharge, and that’s normal! Here’s what to expect:
• Clear or white discharge is normal and helps keep your vagina clean.
• Thick white, itchy discharge could mean a yeast infection.
• Grey or fishy-smelling discharge means bacterial vaginosis (BV).
• Yellow or green discharge is a sign of an STI. Get checked ASAP.
How to Stay Fresh All Day
If you’re worried about odor or feeling fresh throughout the day, try this:
• Drink enough water. It helps flush out toxins.
• Change your underwear daily (or more if you sweat a lot).
• Use panty liners if needed but don’t use them everyday because they can trap moisture.
• After sex, pee and clean up to prevent infections.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice:
• A strong, foul smell that won’t go away
• Itching, burning, or unusual discharge
• Pain during sex or urination.
It’s time to get checked and I have the perfect doctor for you. It could be an infection that needs treatment.
Keeping your vagina clean is simple - less is more. Your body knows what it’s doing, so trust it. Focus on gentle care, healthy habits, and letting your vagina do its thing.
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