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Douching is rinsing or cleaning out the vagina
by squirting water or other fluids (solutions
made with vinegar or baking soda that you can
buy at the drug store) into the vagina. Women
douche to rinse away blood after their periods
and to generally feel cleaner.
Many women douche, but doctors do not recommend
it. Douching changes the balance of natural
chemicals in your vagina and can make it easier
for you to get dangerous infections.
Because the chemical balance of the vagina is
very sensitive, it is best to let the vagina
clean itself. The vagina takes care of cleaning
itself naturally through secretions.
Warm water and gentle, unscented soap during
the bath or shower is the best way to clean the
outside areas of the vagina.
Products like feminine hygiene soaps, powders
and sprays are not necessary, and may be
harmful.
If you have any of the following problems,
tell your doctor right away:
- Itching in and near your vagina
- Burning or pain in your vagina
- Pain when you go to the bathroom
- Discharge, or fluid, from your vagina
that is not normal, such as thick and white
(like cottage cheese) or yellowish-green
discharge that is foul smelling
- If you are not sure if the discharge or
fluid is normal, have your doctor check you
out.
Also read about
yeast infections
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