Vulva care
Your vulva (the outside of a woman’s genitals) doesn’t need to be washed very often. In fact, washing it too much can irritate the skin and cause yeast infections. For most women, washing the groin area once a day, or even less frequently, keeps the area clean and healthy. No soap, shower gels, or cleansers are necessary and may do more harm than good when used on the genitals.
How-to:
- Separate the folds of skin (labia).
- Using plain, lukewarm water, gently rinse and clean the skin. The vagina, the inside part of your genitals, is self-cleansing and doesn’t need to be washed or rinsed.
- Make sure that the creases of the vulva are rinsed, too.
- Before getting out of the shower, rinse the area again gently to get rid of any hair products, shower gel, or other cleansers that may have run down the body.
- Gently pat the vulva dry. Vigorous rubbing can be irritating.
Other tips:
- Avoid anything scented on the genital area. Many of the fragrances used to make such products smell good are very irritating to the vulva’s sensitive skin.
- Avoid douching. Douches can change the environment of the vagina and may lead to infections or irritation.
- Wear clean, cotton underwear that fits comfortably and isn’t too tight. Tight jeans, pantyhose, tights, or thongs without a cotton crotch can trap moisture.
- During your period, use cotton tampons, pads (either disposable or reusable ones that have been washed with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent) or a menstrual cup.
[Updated: 03/09]
