Q&A for How to Douche for Feminine Hygiene

Return to Full Article

Coming soon

Add New Question

Question

What about rinsing the vagina with just water?

AbigailAbernathy

Top Answerer

This is the better option to douching. Douching can lead to infection, as it disrupts the vagina's natural pH balance.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 20 Helpful 71
Question

Is it necessary to use feminine wash everyday?

Community Answer

No. Find what works for you. Everyone's body is different.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 19 Helpful 64
Question

After douching in the shower do you need to scrub the tub?

Community Answer

No, that isn't necessary.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 28 Helpful 69
Question

What do I do if my vagina doesn't have a pleasant smell?

Community Answer

If you feel as though your vagina smell is abnormal, consult your doctor.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 45 Helpful 93
Question

I have this vaginal discharge that is copious and purulent. I am taking prescribed medication, but my discharge is still there. Should I try douching?

Community Answer

No, because you could give yourself a yeast infection and make the situation worse. The medicine will take care of the smell and all of the discharge. You should bathe and wash away any discharge with a warm soapy rag in the tub. Wear a panty liner to catch any discharge and change it frequently.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 12 Helpful 34
Question

My grandmother told me that all she ever used for birth control was douching. Is this effective?

AbigailAbernathy

Top Answerer

Absolutely not. Douching after unprotected sex does nothing to prevent pregnancy.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 12 Helpful 56
Question

How many days after douching do I have to wait before I can have sex?

Tom De Backer

Top Answerer

If you have specific questions or doubts, it is best to ask your doctor or gynecologist. In general, there is no waiting period between douching and sexual intercourse. However, remember all the tips in the article. It removes the natural acidity and vaginal mucous, which your body uses to clean itself. It is not a contraceptive.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 9 Helpful 30
Question

Can douching cause yeast infection?

AbigailAbernathy

Top Answerer

Yes. Douching can kill off the essential bacteria in your vagina and cause the yeast already present in your vagina to overgrow.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 24
Question

Is it okay if I wash my vagina immediately after love making?

Community Answer

Yes. It is best to do so, it cleans out any bacteria that may have been placed there by the condom or just sex.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 55 Helpful 48
Question

I am a nineteen-year-old post-op male to female girl, and because of my sexual activity my mother and sister told me I should be douching. Are they correct?

Community Answer

I would not recommend it, because literally no one I know does it. Even in the introduction to this article it notes that douching can cause bacterial infections. It's not a good idea to put vinegar in your vagina. Obviously you should feel free to talk to your doctor about this, but I would suggest you just steer clear. Washing your vagina with soap and water is really all that is necessary, regardless of whether or not you're having sex.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 8 Helpful 19
Question

Do I use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar?

Community Answer

Apple cider vinegar is more effective than the white vinegar as it helps both for your skin as well as for your body. Applying it onto your face helps to reduce pigmentation, and drinking it detoxifies your body.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 16 Helpful 10
Question

Can I use feminine wash if I'm a virgin? Should I use a specific kind?

Community Answer

The pH in vagina is slightly acidic. Sodium bicarbonate has basic pH. So no, if your primary goal is not to destroy the pH balance there. Vinegar is in the guide for a reason.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Question

Is it true that douching with baking soda can help a woman conceive?

Community Answer

No, this is absolutely not true.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 6
Question

I spotted a bit of blood after douching. The spotting only lasted a day, I am in no pain, but I do not get my periods anymore. What should I do?

Community Answer

It would be best to visit your doctor to make sure that everything is okay.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
Question

Will douching tighten my vagina?

Ragan Cox

Community Answer

No, douching will not tighten your vagina. It's also very bad for you because it screws up your pH balance, which could lead to infections.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 4
Question

Do you use the entire bottle?

Community Answer

Yes. Just don't use the douches too often; you can disrupt your vagina's natural ability to care for itself.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 3
Question

I have foul-smelling vaginal discharges, what should I do?

Community Answer

it could be an STD so make sure you set up a doctor's appointment. But it could also just be your body. Try using panty liners or thin pads and change your pads often. You can also use wipes and sprays with regular underwear, and change and wash at least twice a day. Also be sure to bathe every day and don't use any product in that area that is not meant for that area.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 5
Question

Is it okay to wash discharge from my vagina? Also, I have an odd odor coming from it. Should I visit a doctor?

Community Answer

Discharge is a natural part of your body's functioning. If you would like, you can wash it out. But only use warm water, as soap can create a burning sensation. As for the smell, that could mean a few things. One, it could be that you have an infection. See a doctor if you're concerned about that. Two, it could mean your body isn't cleaning itself well enough, and you should try washing the outside of your vagina with a gentle soap. As I said, only use warm water inside.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
Question

If I want to clean my vagina after sex, can I use a squeeze bottle full of warm water?

Community Answer

No, you shouldn't use a squeeze bottle. You can just take a bath or shower.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 3
Question

Can salt be used as a vaginal wash to lessen itchiness?

Community Answer

No, it would actually make it worse.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 3
Question

My vagina is swollen and my discharge is white and lumpy; what could it be and what can I do to get it back to its normal state?

Community Answer

It sounds like a yeast infection, but if you've never had one before, it's best to see a doctor to get it treated.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
Question

How do I stop vaginal itching without going to the doctor?

Community Answer

If you're having vaginal itching, you really should see a doctor, because it's most likely an infection that needs to be treated. However, if you have just started using any new products like soap or lotion, stop using them. Also, douching really isn't necessary for feminine hygiene, so you can stop doing that as well.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 1
Question

I had sex with my boyfriend, and now my period is late. Am I pregnant?

Community Answer

Maybe, but not necessarily. To know for sure, you need to take a pregnancy test. Either buy a home test from the drugstore or see your doctor who can do a blood test (which is more reliable).

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Question

Are medicated douches okay to use. What exactly do they do?

Community Answer

No, douches are unnecessary and can even be bad. Do not put anything inside your vagina that is not supposed to go in there unless medically advised.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
Question

Is it normal to have strong salty smelling discharge after your period?

Community Answer

Vaginal discharge is most often a normal and regular occurrence. However, there are certain types of discharge that can indicate an infection. If your discharge is starting to smell odd, it could be bacterial vaginosis. You should always visit a GP if you have any concerns.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 1
Question

What is a douching recipe I can use without risking an infection?

Community Answer

Hydrogen peroxide of no more than 3% mixed with warm water (never use cold water!).

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 2
Question

Is there any way to stop giving off discharge, and if I can't, then how can I keep it from messing up my underwear?

Community Answer

Discharge is natural and there's not any way to stop it, but the best way to keep it off your underwear is to use pantyliners.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 1
Question

Can I use vaginal douches and Fluomizin in the same day?

AbigailAbernathy

Top Answerer

No. You are being prescribed Fluomizin because you have bacterial vaginosis. BV is caused by douching. Do not rely on douching. Your vagina is self-cleaning and does not need outside assistance.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 1