Introduction-
Let’s be honest. We treat it like a secret. We whisper. We use code names. We feel awkward just saying the word. But this silence is dangerous. Ignoring your Vaginal Health doesn’t make it go away.
It just leaves you confused and worried. So, let’s clear the air right now.
Here is the truth. Your vagina is an engineering marvel. Think of it like a high-tech, self-cleaning oven. It balances its own chemistry. It sweeps out bacteria. It doesn’t need fancy perfumes or expensive washes. In fact, those things often ruin the magic.
I’m Dr Supriya Mahajan, practising as a Gynecologist in Thane. I want to break this taboo. I want to replace the myths with medical facts.
No judgment. No blushing. Just honest, helpful advice for every woman in Thane. Let’s get started.
2. What is “Good” Vaginal Health? (The Science)
The Secret Sauce: Understanding pH Balance and the Microbiome
So, what defines good Vaginal Health? It is not about looks. It is remarkably invisible. It is all about balance. Specifically, a chemical balance. We call this “pH.” Your vagina is naturally acidic.
Think of lemon juice. This acidity is vital. Why? Because it kills bad germs. Also, you have an army. An army of “good” bacteria.
They are called Lactobacilli. They are your body’s guards. They fight off invaders. So, a healthy vagina…is a balanced ecosystem. However, this balance is fragile.
Stress can tip it. Antibiotics can change it. Even your period affects it. If this acid level drops…the bad germs win. That is when infections start.
3. Why Hygiene Matters: It’s Not About Smelling Like Flowers
Now, let’s talk about hygiene. Why does it matter? Please, listen closely. It is not about perfume. You are not a bouquet. You shouldn’t smell like roses.
Commercial ads lie to you. Real hygiene is purely medical. It is about prevention. It stops the nasty stuff. Like Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Or itchy Yeast infections. Or painful Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).
Proper care keeps the “guards” happy. It keeps the environment stable. But wrong habits hurt them. Like scrubbing too hard. Or using scented soaps.
This destroys your natural protection. It strips away the good bacteria. So, the goal is simple. The goal is health. Not a fake, floral scent.
4. The “Red Flags”: Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Change in Color or Odor of Discharge
Your discharge tells a story. It acts like a messenger. Usually, it is clear. Or maybe cloudy white. This is healthy. But watch for changes.
Is it turning green? Or maybe a dull grey? That is a warning sign. Also, check the smell. A mild scent is normal. However, a strong odour? Specifically, a “fishy” smell? That is a major red flag.
It usually screams “infection.” Likely Bacterial Vaginosis. This disrupts your Vaginal Health. So, pay close attention. Do not ignore these clues. Your body is talking.
Itching, Burning, or Swelling
Next, let’s talk feelings. Does it itch? I mean, really itch? Does it burn? Especially when you pee? Is the area swollen? Or looking bright red?
These are not normal. It feels like a fire. Or a constant mosquito bite. This is your body shouting. It might be yeast. Or perhaps an allergy.
Maybe from a new soap. Either way, it needs help. Good Vaginal Health feels calm. It shouldn’t distract you. So, seek relief fast.
Bleeding Between Periods or After Sex
Now, let’s discuss blood. Periods are messy enough. But, bleeding between them? That is different. Or bleeding after sex? That is a major sign.
We call it “spotting.” Sometimes, it is hormonal. But often, it is physical. It could be a polyp. Or a cervical issue. Or an infection.
It is definitely a red flag. Therefore, do not wait. Please, come see your Gynaecologist. We need to check this. It protects your future health.
Key Takeaway: Pain is Not Normal
Here is the bottom line. Pain is a signal. It is an alarm bell. Sex should not hurt. Walking should not hurt. Sitting should not hurt.
If it hurts, stop. Listen to your body. Do not just “tough it out.” That is dangerous. Protecting your Vaginal Health means acting. It means seeking answers.
You deserve comfort. You deserve to feel good. Pain is never “okay.”
5. Myth vs. Fact: Busting the Biggest Misconceptions in Vaginal Health
Myth 1: Frequency of washing makes you cleaner.
Fact: Over-washing kills good bacteria.
Let’s tackle the first myth. Many women believe this. “More washing is better.” “Cleanliness equals health.”
That is absolutely false. Actually, it harms Vaginal Health.
Why? Remember the good bacteria? Over-washing kills them. It strips the protective oils. It leaves you dry. And prone to infection.
So, stop scrubbing. Once a day is enough. Truly. Just use water. Less is actually more. Your body knows best.
Myth 2: Every smell is an infection.
Fact: Vaginas have a natural scent; it changes with your cycle.
Myth number two. “I smell something.” “It must be an infection.” No. That is wrong.
Your vagina has a scent. A natural, musky scent. It is not odourless. It changes, too. Like during your period. Or after the gym.
That is totally normal. However, a fishy smell? That is different. But a mild scent? That is just you. It is healthy. Don’t stress about it.
Myth 3: You need special products/washes for Vaginal Health.
Fact: Warm water is best; avoid “feminine hygiene” sprays.
You see them in stores. “Feminine Hygiene Washes.” “Vaginal Sprays.” They promise freshness. But, here is the truth. They are unnecessary. In fact, they are harmful.
They are full of chemicals. These chemicals irritate the skin. They mess up the pH. So, what should you use?
Just warm water. That is it. Simple warm water. It is the best cleanser. Save your money.
Myth 4: The hymen indicates virginity.
Fact: It’s just tissue; it can break from sports or tampons.
This is a big one. Especially here in India. The “Virginity Myth.” People think the hymen proves it. “Intact hymen means virgin.” “Broken means not.”
That is scientifically false. The hymen is just tissue. Thin, stretchy skin. It breaks easily. From cycling. From gymnastics. Or using a tampon.
Some are born without one! So, please stop judging. It proves nothing.
Myth 5: All discharge is bad
Fact: Clear/White discharge is healthy and necessary.
Myth five involves discharge. “Ew, discharge is dirty.” “I need to be dry.” No. You don’t.
Discharge is vital. It is how the vagina cleans. It flushes out dead cells. It keeps the tissue moist. Like your mouth has saliva. Your vagina has discharge.
Clear or white is good. It means good Vaginal Health. Dryness is actually the problem. Embrace the flow.
Myth 6: The vagina should be permanently “tight.”
Fact: It’s a muscle; it stretches and recoils.
“Too much sex makes it loose.” We hear this constantly. It is a myth. The vagina is a muscle. Elastic and strong.
Think of a rubber band. It stretches for childbirth. It stretches for sex. Then, it snaps back. It recoils.
It does not stay “loose.” Muscles might weaken with age. But Kegel exercises help. Sex does not ruin it.
Myth 7: Menopause means the end of vaginal care.
Fact: Dryness is treatable; care is vital at any age.
Finally, the menopause myth. “My periods stopped.” “I don’t need care now.” Wrong. You need more care. Estrogen levels drop. This causes dryness. It causes thinning of the walls.
Sex becomes painful. But you can fix this. We have moisturisers. We have treatments. Do not suffer in silence. Vaginal Health is for life. Not just for youth. Keep caring for yourself.
6. Care Tips: How to Maintain Vaginal Health Daily
a. The Wardrobe Rule: Cotton Underwear and Loose Clothing
Let’s talk about clothes. Specifically, your underwear. I have one strict rule. Wear cotton. Why cotton? Because we live in Thane. Thane is humid. Very humid. Synthetic fabrics trap sweat. Like plastic wrap. Moisture breeds bacteria. It invites yeast infections.
b. Bathroom Habits: Wipe Front to Back
Next, the bathroom. We do it daily. But are you doing it right? There is a golden rule. Wipe front to back. Always. Every time. Why does it matter? Think about your anatomy. The back area has bacteria. The front is sensitive. Wiping back to front… …drags those germs forward. It pushes them into the bladder. This causes UTIs.
c. Sex & Hygiene: Peeing After Sex and Using Protection
Intimacy is natural. But hygiene matters too. Here is a pro-tip. Pee after sex. Do it immediately. Why? Sex can push bacteria. It pushes them into the urethra. Peeing flushes them out. It prevents infections. Also, use protection. Condoms are vital. They prevent STIs. Prioritise your Vaginal Health.
d.Exercises: Kegels (Pelvic Floor Strength)
Muscles need a workout. Not just your arms. Your pelvic floor, too. These muscles hold everything. Your bladder. Your uterus. How do you do them? Pretend you are stopping pee. Squeeze those internal muscles. Hold for three seconds. Then relax. Do this ten times. Do it daily.
e. Lifestyle: Hydration and Limiting Sugar
You are what you eat. Literally, first, hydration is key. Drink lots of water. It flushes out toxins. It keeps tissues moist. Now, the hard part. Sugar. Yeast loves sugar. It feeds on it. You might get yeast infections. It is a direct link. Eat more yoghurt. It has probiotics. These help your gut. And your Vaginal Health. Balance your diet.
f. Be Gentle: Avoid Douching and Harsh Soaps
Finally, be kind. Your vagina is delicate. It is sensitive. Do not scrub it. Do not use harsh soaps. And never, ever douche. Douching washes away good bacteria. It leaves you vulnerable. It causes infections. Just use water. Warm water is enough.
Conclusion-
So, here is the truth. We covered a lot today. Myths. Facts. Habits. But remember one thing. Your vagina is smart. It is a self-cleaning marvel. It balances its own chemistry. It fights bad bacteria. It protects itself daily.
Your job is simple. Just support it. Don’t scrub it. Don’t stress it out. Wear your breathable cotton. Eat your healthy food. Let it breathe.
Think of it this way. It is like a garden. It needs water. It needs fresh air. It does not need chemicals. So, step back. Trust your body. You are the sidekick. Let your body be the hero. Good Vaginal Health is simple.
(About the Author:
Dr Supriya Mahajan, M.S., D.N.B. (OBGY), is the Best Lady Gynecologist in Thane West. She has 18+ years of experience. She specialises in advanced laparoscopy, infertility, and high-risk pregnancy. She practices at Ova Fertility & woman Care & Currae Hospital in Thane.)
