Q&A for How to Maintain Feminine Hygiene

The best way to keep your vaginal area fresh is to shower once a day and wash yourself with water and mild, unscented soap. Whenever you go to the bathroom, wipe yourself thoroughly with soft, unscented toilet paper, going from front to back. Wear breathable cotton underwear and be sure to change promptly and shower as soon as you can if you’ve been exercising or your clothing gets wet. Avoid using scented wipes or douches, since these can upset the pH balance in your vagina and lead to infections and irritation.

It’s normal for your vagina to have a mild, slightly musky odor. It might smell a tiny bit sweet or sour. If you’ve been sweating a lot, you might also notice a typical body odor scent, similar to what you get in your armpits on a hot day or after a workout. Your vagina should not smell yeasty, foul, or extremely fishy--unusually strong or bad smells like this might be a sign of an infection.

It’s normal for many people to have darker skin in the genital area, so in most cases it’s nothing to worry about. However, if you’ve noticed a change in the color of the skin in your genital area or if you’re experiencing other symptoms, such as itching, talk to your doctor. In some cases, darkening of the skin can be a sign of a hormone imbalance or irritation due to an infection or allergic reaction.

Some discharge is normal, but you may want to see your doctor, especially if it is frequent, excessive or smells.

Vaginas are not supposed to be dry. Some wetness is normal. If you are having a problem with too much wetness, try using pantiliners.

No, as long as you dab it dry before you put on your garments, as dampness can cause infection.

Yes. It's absolutely normal. Normal discharge is transparent and odorless. If the discharge is colored or smelly, consult a doctor or gynecologist.

That's entirely up to you, and has nothing to do with hygiene. Some people just prefer that look/feel. However, shaving can also lead to ingrown hairs, itchiness and discomfort.

Yes, they are called "feminine wipes." You can find them alongside other feminine products in most grocery stores, drug stores, and supermarkets.

Yes, this is completely normal.

You might have an infection. It might be a good idea to schedule a visit with your doctor or gynecologist as soon as possible. Until then, maintain proper feminine hygiene by following the tips in this article.

That is probably a sign of your period starting. Start using thin pads so you can keep your underwear clean. If you've already been having your period for a while, and this happens frequently, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

It can clear away debris and wash away sweat and clean the pores around the vaginal area.

You can use speciality feminine products, like an unscented body gel, to help with a vaginal smell after you shower. However, you should consult your doctor as some products may cause infections or negatively disrupt your natural hormone and chemical balance.

After washing your vagina with water, just make sure you gently dab it with a soft cotton cloth or with toilet paper to prevent the area from being damp and moist.

Wipe from the front of the vagina toward the anus, then use another tissue to wipe from the front of the anus to the back of the anus. This keeps bacteria from spreading.

It could just be a superficial wound from hemorrhoids or wiping too hard. It could also be sign of a much more serious issue which you should consult with your doctor about.

Always down. The last part of the toilet paper touching your skin should be your bottom, if you are wiping that far down. Last thing you want to do is to bring fecal matter to your vagina.

It's safe, but you don't need it. I personally stopped using it and my vagina smells better, I just wash with warm water.

Itchiness may be caused by dry skin, improper washing or an infection. Make an appointment with your doctor for advice.

It sounds like you may be experiencing a yeast infection. Common symptoms include dryness, itching, foul odors, and a cottage cheese-like discharge. Yeast infections are not considered a serious health risk, although if they are reoccurring, consult with your doctor or gynecologist. For more severe yeast infections, oral medication may be prescribed, but for most yeast infections you can get over-the-counter creams and suppositories for your vagina, or use natural home remedies such as plain yogurt.

In the shower, use your hands or a hand held shower head to rinse yourself out. Unscented wet wipes are great for quick clean ups.

Try wearing panty liners. They are small enough for absorbing discharge, and don't cause a comfort issue.

Yes, but they should be unscented.

Like you would normally. Use soap, shampoo, lotion, etc. as you would during a normal shower.

You can try from multiple positions: still sitting on the toliet, standing up, etc. The main thing you are trying to do is get rid of the moisture.

After you urinate, wash it with water then pat it gently with toilet paper. Do not rub it.

If you feel like you have pressure on your bladder, you could be suffering from several things, including dehydration, a bladder infection, etc. It would be best to make an appointment with your doctor so they can examine you.

Yes, but you will get the area cleaner using a wash cloth. The texture will be able to scrub away any residue.

That is most likely a sign of either a yeast or bacterial infection, two very different things with similar symptoms. See a doctor or gynecologist for treatment options.