Preventing Vaginitis in Summer Starts with Proper Genital Hygiene
Gynecological experts point out that vaginitis is a common disease among women, and many cases of vaginal inflammation are caused by neglecting personal hygiene. The high temperatures of summer create an ideal environment for bacterial growth, making it a peak season for vaginitis. Many women suffer silently due to incorrect vaginal care practices. Therefore, women need to learn how to protect themselves, especially during the summer when they should pay attention to genital hygiene to prevent vaginitis.
So, how should women clean their genitals? What should they be mindful of during cleaning?
Experts explain: Since the female vagina is located in the central lower part of the true pelvis, serving as the organ for sexual intercourse and the passage for menstrual blood discharge and childbirth, its lower end opens into the posterior part of the vestibule of the vagina. The anterior wall is adjacent to the bladder and urethra, while the posterior wall is close to the rectum, placing the vagina between the bladder, urethra, and rectum. This unique anatomical location makes women more susceptible to infections. Therefore, women should wash their genitals daily to effectively prevent vaginitis.
Matters needing attention for female genital cleaning:
[1] Prepare a dedicated washing basin and cleaning tools, as well as a dedicated towel. Cleaning tools should be washed before use, and towels should be dried in the sun or in a ventilated area after use, preferably under direct sunlight for effective sterilization. Long-term lack of sunlight exposure can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungi on towels.
[2] Wash the external genitalia appropriately first. Avoid rinsing the vagina unless necessary, maintaining the natural defenses of the female reproductive tract and not disrupting the ecological balance within the vagina to prevent the entry of external pathogens.
[3] Do not use highly alkaline soaps, potassium permanganate, or chemical washes during cleaning, as these can alter the normal acidic environment of the vagina.
[4] During menstruation, wash the external genitalia frequently with warm water and change sanitary napkins regularly to prevent menstrual blood from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.
[5] After defecation, wipe thoroughly from front to back with toilet paper and ideally develop the habit of washing or rinsing the anus with warm water. If not wiped clean, fecal residue around the anus can contaminate underwear, and the intestinal bacteria contained in the feces may enter the vagina, causing infection.
Experts remind: Enhancing immune capacity through moderate exercise, sufficient sleep, increased intake of vegetables, grains, proteins, and unsaturated fats, and reducing the consumption of high-sugar foods can also effectively prevent the occurrence of vaginitis.
This article is excerpted from the official website of Changchun Gynecology Hospital. Original address: http://www.tjfk999.com/yindaoyan/201104252339.html For more information about gynecological diseases, please visit the official website of Changchun Gynecology Hospital.