9 Things That You Should Definitely Not Be Doing To Your Vagina

Steaming and douching are big no-nos.

1. Please, stop douching and steaming your vagina.

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You definitely don't need to douche or steam your vagina. These practices can lead to an imbalance of bacteria in your vagina which can sometimes be the cause of other intimate health issues. Ouch!

2. And don't use vagina perfume and creams.

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Other things that will irritate your vagina – as well as the sensitive skin on your vulva – are using vagina perfumes or creams. A healthy vagina either has a non-offensive odour or no odour at all.

3. Rethink removing all of your pubic hair.

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While modern beauty standards veer towards having a hairless pubic region, your pubic hair does actually serve a very important purpose in protecting your vagina from external nasties. It's your business whether you choose to get rid of it or keep it, but do know that pubic hair is your friend, not foe!

4. And stop thinking that thrush is caused by too much sex.

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Thrush is a vaginal infection caused by a number of things, but sex is not one of them. So go forth and enjoy being intimate without ever having to worry about contracting thrush.

5. Stop avoiding pap smears and checkups.

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We get it, pap-smears can be a little uncomfortable. But it’s important to get one regularly to ensure you maintain good intimate health practice.

6. But don't avoid learning about your vaginal health.

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If you've got a vagina, it's important to know what types of vaginal discharge are normal and which are not. For example, having clear to milky-white discharge, as well as a non-offensive odour is normal, and are actually signs that your vagina is self-regulating properly.

7. Rethink some of your lifestyle choices (with your vagina in mind!)

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Let's start making lifestyle choices that will keep our vaginas healthy and happy. Having a balanced diet and wearing clothes that allow your vagina to breathe are a great start!

8. Don't ignore changes in your vagina.

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When you notice unusual vaginal symptoms, you may want to know if it is thrush or something else. While the symptoms for thrush are different to other vaginal infections, it can still be difficult to tell them apart based on symptoms alone. The new Canesten Vaginal pH Self Test, can help you self diagnose if it's thrush or something else.

9. And stop thinking thrush will go away on its own.

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While thrush is a very common condition, it can be very uncomfortable and embarrassing. Thankfully, you don’t have to wonder what it could be, or hope that it goes away on its own. You can now self-test before you treat. Canesten Vaginal pH Self Test is available on-shelf from your pharmacy.

Canesten Vaginal pH Self Test links vaginal pH and symptoms to a probable condition. First, the easy-to-use swab helps you to find out whether or not your vaginal pH level is elevated. Then, this result should be interpreted in conjunction with the symptoms table on the pack, helping you to request the right treatment or consult with a doctor if needed.

The Canesten Vaginal pH Self Test is available on the shelf at pharmacies.

Always read the label. Follow the directions for use.

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