Bacterial Vaginosis is a real medical condition that occurs when certain types of bacteria enter the vagina. It’s very common and symptoms include unusual vaginal discharge, fish-like odor, burning when urinating, itching around the outside of the vagina and vaginal irritation.
The good news is that it’s fairly easy to treat with medicine from your doctor, and you can decrease your risk for getting bacterial vaginosis with just a few simple steps.
1. Say No to Thongs
Thongs can be sexy, but there is a time and a place to wear them.
Changing into a thong right before you engage in foreplay can make you feel sexy and can be visually stimulating for your partner. However, wearing a thong all day can be a health hazard.
Gynecologists warn against wearing thongs for prolonged periods because they are a conduit for bacteria. For instance, a thong can easily pick up fecal matter and carry that towards your vagina causing infection.
It’s best to save your thongs for playtime and wear comfortable, breathable cotton underwear throughout the day.
2. Remember to Wipe From Front to Back
If you wipe from back-to-front you’re carrying fecal matter and bacteria towards your vagina. To avoid this it’s best to wipe from front-to-back.
If that feels awkward to you, try using a wad of toilet paper at the front and a separate wad for the back.
3. Use Swipes After Sex
Bacteria can be transferred to the vaginal area during sex acts. Immediately after sex you should pee and use Swipes intimate wipes to clean up.
If using condoms during oral sex, you should replace the condom with a fresh one before switching to vaginal sex to avoid a transfer of bacteria.
4. Skip the Vaginal Deodorant Sprays
Because bacterial vaginosis can be detected through its unusual smell, it’s important to skip vaginal deodorant sprays which can mask or cover the smell.
If you want to freshen up throughout the day it’s best to use a feminine wipe, like Swipes, to truly clean yourself of sweat and any discharge you may have.
5. Never, Ever Use a Douche
Douching will push bacteria into your vagina instead of helping to clean it. Your vagina is good at cleaning itself on the inside. All you need to do is take care of the outside by washing with warm water.
If you insist of using soap on the outside look for one that is fragrance free and pH-balanced to prevent any unusual odors caused by fragrance mixing with your body’s natural chemistry.
Swipes feminine wipes are pH-balanced and can be found using our Store Locator here.
