Feminine Wash: Yay or Nay?

I am in an all-girls WhatsApp group with friends from secondary school. Typically, I am quite inactive in the group but one day a message dropped. It read, “Guys have any of you used summer’s eve or Sebamed wash? I am trying to decide…”

I was like, wait. Are feminine washes (soaps used to wash the vagina) still a thing?

I first heard about them when I was in the University, they were very popular. Everybody had a feminine wash. I would have bought one too if my skin wasn’t so sensitive. As a matter of fact, I envied my roommates and their feminine washes that they swore made them smell really good.

I later found out that those feminine washes are not good for the vagina. The brands swear that they make the products out of natural ingredients and it has good PH balance, but no doctor will recommend a feminine wash to you. And why is that? Well, I’ll tell you.

1. There is nothing wrong with the natural smell of the vagina. Your vagina is not a garden, it should not smell like flowers. Keeping a good personal hygiene is enough.
2. The vagina cleanses itself. Introducing soaps that are often harsh distorts the PH balance of the vagina and this leads to yeast infections. Also, washing your undies with harsh soaps (like detergents) and not rinsing properly could cause a yeast infection. A mild soap and rinsing thoroughly is good for your undies and vagina.
3. You should also pay attention to the type of toilet paper or wipes you use. I bought one toilet paper that made me itch for days before I figured out the cause. If you use wipes, go for fragrant-free brands, or to be safe, buy baby wipes.
4. If you think you have a foul smell, then you mostly likely have a yeast or a bacteria infection or something more serious. Do not self-diagnose and buy antibacterial drugs. See a doctor to get proper care.

The female body is amazing and delicate. Like I always say, brands don’t particularly care about your health, they look at the profit margin. A simple google search on these products will save you hospital visits. Say NAY to feminine washes!