Vaginal health is an essential aspect of overall well-being for every woman, yet it often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves.

Despite its significance, conversations around vaginal health are still met with embarrassment, leaving many women without the information they need.

Do you want to know more about vaginal health? Looking for some tips to maintain vaginal health? In this guide, Mykare Health will cover 10 essential things that every woman should know about her vaginal health.

From understanding pH levels and safe hygiene practices to learning about the impacts of diet, stress, and menopause, this bog aims to empower you with the knowledge to make informed choices for a healthier life.

1. Understanding Your Vaginal pH

• A healthy vaginal pH is crucial for protecting against infections and maintaining a balanced microbiome. The vagina’s natural pH level is slightly acidic, generally ranging from 3.8 to 4.5.

• This acidity is important because it supports beneficial bacteria, primarily Lactobacillus, which helps fend off harmful bacteria and yeast. When the pH shifts above 4.5, the balance of good bacteria is disrupted, increasing susceptibility to infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections.

• Various factors can affect vaginal pH, including douching, using scented products, unprotected sex, menstruation, and hormonal changes. To maintain a healthy pH, avoid unnecessary cleansing products and douches, which can strip away the natural flora.

• Using unscented, gentle products around the area is usually enough to support a healthy balance. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare provider about probiotics can also help sustain beneficial bacteria in the vaginal area.

2. Recognising Normal and Abnormal Discharge

• Vaginal discharge is a normal part of the body’s self-cleaning process, and it varies throughout the menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes. Healthy discharge is usually clear or milky white, odourless, and may be slightly sticky.

• An increase in discharge is common during ovulation, pregnancy, and while using birth control pills. However, not all discharge is healthy. Changes in colour (such as yellow, green, or grey), a strong or foul odour, or an unusual consistency (like thick cottage cheese) can indicate an infection.

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV), for example, often causes a fishy-smelling discharge, while yeast infections are usually accompanied by itching and thick, white discharge.

• Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia, can also cause unusual discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

3. The Role of Hygiene

• When it comes to vaginal hygiene, less is usually more. The vagina is naturally self-cleaning, and using excessive products can disrupt its delicate balance. Over-cleaning or using scented soaps can irritate the sensitive skin around the area, leading to issues such as dryness or infections.

• Cleaning the outer parts of the vagina (vulva) with water and mild, fragrance-free soap is usually sufficient. Avoid douching, as it disrupts the natural flora and can increase the risk of infections. Menstrual hygiene is also important; changing tampons or pads every 4-6 hours is recommended to prevent bacterial buildup and minimise odour.

• It’s also helpful to choose breathable, cotton underwear, which allows airflow and reduces moisture buildup. Tight clothing or synthetic materials can trap moisture, creating an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive.

4. Diet and Hydration’s Impact on Vaginal Health

• Diet and hydration play a significant role in maintaining vaginal health. Staying hydrated helps maintain healthy mucous membranes, including the tissues in the vagina, which rely on moisture to stay healthy and comfortable.

• Additionally, eating a balanced diet rich in probiotics (such as yogurt, kimchi, or sauerkraut) introduces beneficial bacteria into your system, which can support a balanced vaginal microbiome.

• Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and chia seeds, are also beneficial for reducing inflammation and promoting tissue health. Cranberries and their extracts, often recommended for urinary tract health, may also provide some benefits for preventing bacterial buildup in the vaginal area.

• On the other hand, reducing sugar intake is advisable, as high sugar levels can encourage yeast overgrowth, leading to infections. Avoiding excessive alcohol and processed foods also promotes a balanced microbiome.

5. Understanding Menstrual Health and Care

• Menstrual health is a key component of vaginal health, and being informed about proper care can help prevent discomfort or infections. Tracking your menstrual cycle helps you notice irregularities that could indicate hormonal imbalances or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

• Choosing the right menstrual products is also important; tampons and pads are safe when changed regularly, but menstrual cups have become popular as eco-friendly alternatives.

• Menstrual cups, when cleaned and used properly, can be safe and comfortable, though they require regular sterilisation to avoid bacterial buildup. It’s important to wash your hands before and after inserting any menstrual product.

• If you experience pain, unusually heavy bleeding, or irregular cycles, it may be worth discussing with a gynaecologist to rule out underlying health issues.

6. The Importance of Regular Checkups and Screenings

• Routine gynaecological exams are crucial for maintaining vaginal health, as they allow for the early detection and treatment of potential issues. Most experts recommend that women start seeing a gynaecologist in their late teens or early twenties, with annual checkups to monitor reproductive health.

• A Pap smear, typically recommended every three years for women aged 21–65, is essential for detecting abnormal cells in the cervix that could lead to cervical cancer if left untreated.

• For sexually active women, regular screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are also important, as some STIs can be asymptomatic but still affect vaginal health and fertility.

• HPV testing may also be advised, as the virus is linked to cervical cancer. Additionally, becoming familiar with your own body can help you detect changes that might warrant a visit to your healthcare provider.

7. Safe Sexual Practices and Their Importance

• Practising safe sex is essential for maintaining vaginal health and preventing infections. Using condoms reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and protects the vaginal environment.

• Open and honest communication with sexual partners about sexual health, testing, and monogamy can also reduce risks. Vaginal tissues are sensitive, and friction from sexual activity can sometimes cause microtears, which increase infection risk; using a quality, water-based lubricant can help prevent this.

• Additionally, different contraceptives can affect vaginal flora and pH levels, so it’s beneficial to consult a healthcare provider when choosing the method that best suits your needs and lifestyle.

8. Managing Menopause and Its Effects on Vaginal Health

• Menopause brings about hormonal changes that significantly impact vaginal health. As oestrogen levels decrease, women often experience symptoms such as vaginal dryness, thinning of the vaginal walls, and a decrease in natural lubrication, which can lead to discomfort or infections.

• These symptoms can be managed in several ways. Over-the-counter moisturisers and lubricants can alleviate dryness, while hormone replacement therapy (HRT), prescribed by a doctor, may provide longer-lasting relief by balancing hormone levels.

• Regular pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, can help maintain muscle tone and improve circulation in the vaginal area. For more severe cases, some women explore options like vaginal rejuvenation treatments, but it’s essential to consult a qualified medical professional for these procedures to weigh the risks and benefits.

9. Stress and Its Connection to Vaginal Health

• The mind and body are deeply interconnected, and stress can impact vaginal health in several ways. Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances, which can affect the menstrual cycle and vaginal pH.

• Stress weakens the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fend off infections, such as yeast infections. Practising stress management techniques, such as exercise, meditation, or yoga, can help reduce these effects and improve overall health.

• Getting enough sleep and maintaining a nutritious diet also contribute to better hormonal balance, which supports vaginal health. Being proactive about stress management not only benefits mental health but also plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy, balanced body.

10. Understanding Common Myths and Misconceptions

• There are many myths about vaginal health that can lead to confusion or poor habits. For instance, many women believe that vaginas need scented products to smell "fresh," but this is a misconception—vaginas are self-cleaning, and scented products can cause irritation or infection.

• Another myth is that discharge always signals infection; in reality, some discharge is completely normal and part of a healthy cycle.

• Some people believe that sexual activity permanently changes the shape of the vagina, but the vagina is highly elastic and returns to its natural shape. Dispelling these myths helps women make healthier, more informed choices.