health
Myth busting
According to Dr Portia Mosadi, a gynaecologist at Netcare Pholoso and Netcare Rosebank hospitals, one of the most common mistakes is the belief that the vagina needs help to stay clean.
“ I often see women who mistakenly believe that vaginal douching or using strong antiseptic soaps is necessary for‘ cleanliness’. This is not true,” she says.“ The vagina is self-cleaning. Douching disrupts the vagina’ s natural flora and increases infection risk, while scented products can cause irritation and allergic reactions.”
Another misconception is the idea that any vaginal discharge must mean something is wrong.“ In fact, healthy discharge varies across the menstrual cycle,” explains Dr Mosadi.
Dr Lisa Jansen van Rensburg, obstetrician and gynaecologist at Mediclinic Kloof, echoes these concerns, especially around odour:“ Your vagina should smell like a vagina, not like roses! Many factors affect odour, including menstrual cycle, sex and physical activity. Avoid all products that proclaim to improve vaginal odour.”
Between old wives’ tales your mom told you growing up, and( mis) information from wellness influencers on social media, it can be hard to separate beliefs from sound medical information.
Dr Mosadi explains,“ Many cultural traditions frame menstruation or sexual health as‘ dirty’ or‘ unclean’, and restrictive.”
A useful rule of thumb?“ If advice is rooted in secrecy, shame or fear, it’ s likely cultural advice rather than medical,” she says.
Dr van Rensburg encourages women to approach all information, especially those found on social media, with a healthy scepticism.“ Is this from a medical professional or a lay person? What is this person’ s background in the field they are talking about? Can they provide references to reputable sources for their claims? Are they transferring their own shame or trauma with the advice?”
She adds that emotive or shame-laden language is a red flag:“ Medical advice is judgement-free and based in science.” And when unsure?“ When in doubt, seek advice from a medical professional.”
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Less really is more
So now that they’ ve gotten those myths out the way, let’ s talk about what you should be doing. Both Dr Mosadi and Dr van Rensburg stress simplicity.
Their guidelines include:
• Wash only the vulva( external genital area) with warm water. If needed, use a mild, fragrance-free soap. The vagina is self-cleaning, so internal washing is unnecessary and can upset its natural balance.
• Avoid douching or perfumed products, as these can disrupt the healthy bacteria and pH levels, increasing the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.
• Choose breathable cotton underwear and change out of damp clothing( after gym, swimming, or sweating). In hot climates, this is especially important to reduce moisture build-up, which can encourage bacterial or fungal growth.
• Practise proper wiping technique: always wipe from front to back after using the toilet. This prevents bacteria from the gut from entering the vagina or urethra, lowering the risk of urinary tract infections.
• Use condoms consistently. They not only help protect against bacterial vaginosis by reducing the transfer of bacteria between partners, but also safeguard against sexually transmitted infections( STIs).
When to seek medical help
While some variation in discharge and odour is normal, there are some signs that shouldn’ t be ignored. Dr van Rensburg provides a checklist of urgent signs, including:
• A strong fishy or foul odour
• A cheese-like discharge or a sudden change in discharge volume or colour
• Any itchiness, burning or sores on the vulva
• Pelvic pain
• Bleeding between periods or bleeding after sex
• Recurrent infections, especially if you are practising good, gentle hygiene techniques
“ If you have a fever or severe abdominal or pelvic pain, please seek emergency medical care,” cautions Dr van Rensburg.
Dr Mosadi adds,“ Trust your body, listen to its signals, and don’ t hesitate to seek professional advice, whether at a private gynaecologist or your local clinic.”
At the end of the day, the specialists agree: your vagina knows what it’ s doing. You don’ t need elaborate routines, special wipes, or miracle products – just gentle care, breathable fabrics and an awareness of your own normal. �
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