Vaginal health and hygiene: simple, safe tips every woman should know

In this article

1. What’s normal
2. Daily care tips
3. Intimacy and comfort
4. Body confidence
5. Myths and facts
6. When to get help

Intimate care doesn’t need to be complicated. Gentle and simple works best.

What’s normal

• Clear to white discharge that changes through the month
• A mild natural scent
• More moisture around ovulation and with arousal

Daily care tips

1. Wash the outer area (vulva) with water or mild, unscented soap.
2. Avoid douching and scented sprays.
3. Wear cotton underwear; change after exercise.
4. Wipe front to back.
5. Change pads or tampons regularly; clean menstrual cups as directed.

Intimacy and comfort

• Pass urine after sex. See UTI after sex.
• Use a water-based lubricant if dryness is an issue. See vaginal dryness.
• Pain is not normal. See painful sex in women.

Body confidence

Many women feel self-conscious about how their body looks or smells. These worries often lower desire. See body confidence in the bedroom.

Myths and facts

• Myth: The vagina needs special washes. Fact: It cleans itself.
• Myth: Discharge means infection. Fact: Some discharge is healthy.
• Myth: Tightness can be ‘fixed’ with products. Fact: Comfort comes from relaxation and arousal.

When to get help

See a gynaecologist for itching, burning, unusual smell or colour, sores or pain. For confidence, desire or pain-related anxiety, book a Discovery Call or take the free women’s assessment.

Frequently asked questions

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. If you have sudden symptoms, pain, bleeding or thoughts of self-harm, please contact a doctor or local emergency services.