What is intimate hygiene and why is it important?
Intimate hygiene is the specific care of the genital area. Good intimate hygiene is crucial to preventing infections, maintaining the natural pH of the genital area and avoiding discomforts such as irritation or odors. It plays a fundamental role in overall health and well-being.
How often should I cleanse?
Intimate cleansing is recommended at least once a day. However, this may vary according to daily activities, perspiration, or during menstruation, when it may be necessary to perform it more frequently to preserve freshness and avoid the development of bacteria.
What products should I use for intimate hygiene?
Choose products specially formulated for intimate hygiene. These products should be gentle, soap-free and have a neutral or slightly acidic pH to respect the natural balance of intimate flora. Avoid scented products, which can irritate the sensitive skin in this area.
How to perform intimate cleansing correctly?
For effective intimate cleansing:
What are the common mistakes to avoid when cleansing?
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure optimal intimate hygiene:
Does intimate hygiene for men differ from that for women?
Yes, although the principle remains the same, men must also be sure to clean under the foreskin to avoid the build-up of smegma, a whitish substance that can promote infection. Intimate male cleansing must be gentle to preserve skin health and maintain the natural balance of bacteria.
How to maintain optimal intimate hygiene during menstruation?
During menstruation, it's essential to change your sanitary protection regularly and perform intimate hygiene more frequently. Use gentle, hypoallergenic products to avoid irritation caused by more frequent contact with these products.
Are there any specific recommendations for children's intimate hygiene?
For children, gentle intimate hygiene is sufficient. Use soap-free, hypoallergenic products. It's important to teach young girls to wash from front to back to prevent infections.
When should I consult a doctor about intimate hygiene problems?
Consult a doctor if you notice unusual symptoms such as itching, redness, persistent irritation or abnormal odours. These signs may indicate an infection or an imbalance in intimate flora requiring specific treatment.
How can probiotics benefit intimate hygiene?
By strengthening the beneficial flora in the intimate area, probiotics can help maintain a healthy environment and prevent bacterial imbalances. They are particularly recommended after antibiotic treatment to restore the natural flora.
How to choose the right intimate cleansing product for sensitive skin?
For people with sensitive skin, it's crucial to choose intimate cleansing products specifically formulated for reactive skin. Opt for soap-free, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free cleansers. Look for products containing soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or chamomile, and make sure they are dermatologically tested to minimize the risk of irritation.
Are there specific intimate hygiene practices for athletes?
Athletes may be more susceptible to irritation from perspiration and friction. It's advisable to perform intimate hygiene immediately after physical activity to avoid the proliferation of bacteria and fungi. Using mild, refreshing products can help maintain a feeling of freshness and cleanliness.
What impact do douches have on intimate hygiene?
Douching involves rinsing the inside of the vagina with liquid solutions, a practice many health professionals advise against. They can disrupt the natural balance of pH and vaginal flora, increasing the risk of infections and reproductive health problems. For healthy intimate hygiene, it's best to limit yourself to cleaning the outside of your genitals.
How does intimate hygiene vary with the different phases of the menstrual cycle?
During the menstrual cycle, intimate cleansing needs may vary. During menstruation, it's advisable to increase the frequency of cleansing to manage the flow and avoid odours. Before and after the period, less frequent but still regular cleansing is sufficient. It's important to use products adapted to each phase to maintain the natural balance and avoid irritation.
Are there any recommendations for intimate hygiene during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the intimate area can become more sensitive due to hormonal changes, making proper intimate hygiene even more essential. We recommend using gentle cleansers that are free of irritants. Avoid douches and perfumed products. Regular, gentle cleansing helps prevent infections, which can be more frequent during this period due to changes in vaginal pH.
