Doctor holding a sectional model of the vagina
Coochie, cookie, nunu, yoni, kitty, lady parts… Since time immemorial, society had developed so many alternative names for the vagina just to avoid calling it what it is.
Over time, this has created somewhat of a cognitive distance between some women and their vaginas and this phenomenon has, in turn, not only impacted the relationship that people have with their reproductive organs but also how they approach the healthcare of these vital body parts.
According to research by an organisation called The Eve Appeal, 65% of people from the UK with vaginas are uncomfortable using the words “vagina” or “vulva”.
Additionally, 45% of the people surveyed never talk to anyone about their vaginal health let alone their doctors?
Research by the Ovarian Cancer Trust has also found that 66% of 18 to 24-year-olds are so shy about speaking to their doctors about their vaginas that they avoid going to them altogether, instead preferring to turn to Google for all their gynae-related questions.
“If you have a vagina, talking about it is essential for taking control of its health and wellbeing, which should be a top priority regardless of whether you’re going through puberty, pregnancy, post-menopause or any period in between,” commented Toni Carrol, founder of luxury nutri-cosmetic brand, My Beauty Luv.
“This is because, according to the Mayo Clinic, an unhealthy vagina can affect fertility, libido and the ability to orgasm. Worse still, it can even impact self-confidence. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to care of ‘down there’.”
As an advocate for reproductive health, Carrol shared her top tips for coochie confidence to help people develop better relationships with their vaginas.
Although vaginas are self-cleaning machines thanks to their natural secretions, it’s important to wash the vulva (i.e. the outer parts), regularly with warm water and mild soap – especially after sex to prevent infections.
“Avoid using feminine washes and sprays as they contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that can disrupt the area’s delicate pH balance. This, in turn, could increase the risk of developing bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition that occurs when there is too much of a certain bacteria in the vagina and is associated with a strong fish-like odour.”
Protect yourself from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) by using condoms during penetrative sex, either with a penis or a sex toy, and dental dams, which are placed between the mouth and the vagina during oral sex.
Signs of STIs include pain during urination, unusual vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding, and rashes or sores.
Carrol also said everyone should be sure to get tested regularly if they’re sexually active.
According to Carrol, people who are prone to frequent infections, candida flare-ups, inflammation, itchiness, unwanted discharge and embarrassing smells can benefit from natural supplements like Vajayay® which provide effective prevention and treatment of infections, including candida and vaginalis infections as well as urinary tract infections (UTIs).
“Look for supplements that contain probiotics as these are vital for improving vaginal flora, increasing good bacteria, reducing harmful bacteria, and maintaining the stability of the vaginal flora environment.”
Regular visits with a health professional are essential for detecting, diagnosing and treating any potential issues before they become a larger problem.
Ideally, those with vaginas should see a healthcare provider annually to check for STIs, get a breast exam, undergo a pelvic exam and get a Pap smear.
Ageing, pregnancy, childbirth, weight gain and even chronic coughing can all contribute to weakened pelvic floor muscles according to the My Beauty Luv founder.
“Unfortunately, this can lead to urinary incontinence and other issues. Kegel exercises, also known as pelvic floor muscle training, can help to prevent this or improve the symptoms of those who are already experiencing the effects.
“These are performed by lifting and holding and then relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. Begin by doing a few Kegels at a time and increase both the length of time and the number of Kegels performed in each set. Ideally, two or three sets should be done each day.”
READ NEXT: Golden Showers: Goggles to protect eyes from infection, and other handy tips from expert
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.
