Use Enough Lubricant, but
not Petroleum Jelly
Lubrication is an important
part of intercourse. Without
it, the skin of the labia and
vagina can become irritated
and chafed, sometimes to the
point of breaking. While
vaginal lubrication usually
occurs naturally during
female arousal, some women
do not produce enough
natural lubricant. In this case,
women should use an
artificial lubricant to reduce
friction and irritation, and to
enhance pleasure. Avoid
petroleum jelly (like
Vaseline) and other oil-based
products for this purpose
because they can cause latex
in condoms to break down
and also might cause
infection.
Choose Clothing Carefully to
Stay Dry
Your vagina should stay
clean and dry — and what
you wear can affect that.
JOY FEELINGS
Certain types of fabrics and
styles worn close to the
genitals can increase heat and
moisture, potentially leading
to bacteria overgrowth and
infections. Wear cotton
underwear during the day,
and avoid thongs. Try not to
wear tight-fitting clothing,
and change out of wet
swimsuits and sweaty
workout clothes as quickly as
possible.
Follow Good Hygiene
Common sense can go a long
way in protecting the health
of your vagina. After a bowel
movement, wipe from front
to back to avoid bacterial
contamination of the vagina
and to lower the risk of
bladder infection. Change
sanitary pads and tampons
regularly during your period.
When you're not having your
period, do not use pads or
panty liners to absorb normal
vaginal discharge; they will
keep moisture and warmth