Choma, I know this can be a topic you might feel embarrassed to talk about, but it’s a very important one – keeping your intimate area clean is necessary if you want to stay healthy, feel fresh and avoid infections.

As girls, our intimate regions are very sensitive and require special care. Here are my tips on maintaining a healthy and clean vagina the right way.

Avoid tight/synthetic clothing

Wearing tight pants or wearing panties made from synthetic fabric (such as polyester or nylon) for long periods of time can lead to a build-up of bacteria, causing infections such as yeast infections (aka thrush). Wear breathable fabrics and clothes whenever you can – trust me, you’ll feel the difference!

Wash regularly with water

Wash regularly with water or a feminine wash only. Do not use any other soaps, scented creams or sprays on the vagina. These can dry the sensitive skin, causing itching or burning, and they can actually lead to an increase in bacteria because they interfere with the natural pH levels of the vagina.

Don’t ever use any products (including feminine wash) inside the vagina and avoid using products such as douches (a device used for washing or flushing the vagina with water or other fluids). These can also disrupt the delicate balance of your vagina.

Remove wet or sweaty panties and pants

Don’t stay in wet or sweaty pants and panties for too long, as this can encourage the spread of bacteria. I recommend using a panty liner during the day if you can, to maintain a feeling of freshness and dryness.

Eat healthy

If you’re eating unhealthy foods, this can impact your body including your intimate area, leading to infections down there. Be sure to eat a balanced diet with enough fruits, veggies and nutrients, as well as plain yoghurt which contains good bacteria that helps the vagina stay healthy. Also be sure to drink lots of water during the day.

Wipe correctly after using the bathroom.

When using toilet paper or wipes, make sure you are wiping away from the vagina, toward your bum (not the other way around). Wiping incorrectly can cause bacteria from the anus to spread to the vagina, so be sure to avoid this.

Keep intimate wipes in your bag for on-the-go freshness.

This is an optional step, but if you feel like you need some additional freshness during the day, you can get intimate wipes at stores such as Clicks and Dis-Chem. Make sure that they are suitable to use on your intimate area- this will usually be indicated on the packaging. Remember to only use these wipes on the outside of the vagina.

You can also read my article for more information on vaginal health mistakes you could be making here.

Your intimate hygiene is vital to your health Choma, so make sure that you’re taking care of it correctly- plus it will make you feel fresher, cleaner and so much more confident!

Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).