Many women experience uncomfortable vagina infections (vaginitis) at one time or the other. The area around the entrance to the vagina (vulva) can also be irritated. However, not all vagina infections are alike and home treatments can worsen some types.
THE VULVA AND THE VAGINA
The vulva is the area of female sex organs that lies outside of the vagina. These organs include folds of sensitive tissue called the labia majora. A second set of folds, called labia minora, is enclosed within the labia majora. The vulva also contains the mounded area made by the pubic bone (monis pubis), a small round organ (clitoris) and the opening of the vagina and urinary carnal (urethra). The vagina is the passageway that extends from outside of the body of the uterus (womb).
VAGINA INFECTIONS AND VULVA CARE
Vagina infections occur when bacteria, funguses or other organisms grow uncontrolled. Some of these organisms already live in the vagina and are kept at healthy levels by coexisting with other organisms. Infectious organisms can also be introduced into the vagina by improper hygiene or unsafe sex.
The goal of vulva care is to keep the vulva dry and from irritants. In this way, you can prevent the vulva from becoming red, swollen and irritated. This is because many infections are introduced into the vagina.
TIPS FOR VAGINALVULVA CARE
Use only warm water to wash the vulva. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
The vagina cleanses itself naturally in the form of normal vaginal discharges. Avoid using douches unless prescribed by your physician because these products can upset the natural balance of organisms.
Wear only white, 100 percent cotton underwear. Avoid wearing nylon, acetate or other manmade fibres.
Avoid wearing thongs.
Rinse underclothes before wearing.
Use a mild soap for washing underclothes. Do not use detergents or fabric softeners.
Use soft toilet tissue (white only).
Use tampons instead of sanitary napkins to control menstrual bleeding (do not use deodorant tampons). Do not leave tampons in for a long period, due to toxic shock syndrome. Do not leave tampons in all night.
Do not scratch.
Avoid wearing nylon pantyhose or panty girdles. They trap heat and moisture, providing an ideal breeding environment for organisms. When nylons or leggings are required, wear cotton or nylon with a cotton panty.
Avoid these feminine products, which can irritate the vulva: sanitary pads, feminine spray and deodorants, Vaseline, oils, greases, bubble baths, bath oils, talc or powder.
