Good personal hygiene is important for good health and a well-kept appearance. Due to differences in hormonal balances, lifestyles and body types, proper hygiene is different for a woman than it is for a man. Female-specific hygiene issues include bodily cleanliness, hair care, menstruation, urinary tract infections and yeast infections.
Hand Washing
Hand washing is a basic component of good hygiene. It wards off disease by killing germs that spread viruses. The Rhode Island Department of Health cautions that hands should be washed after using the bathroom, after sneezing or coughing, before eating, after handling uncooked meat and after playing with a pet. Lather up with soap and rubbing hands together for 15 to 20 seconds. Use a paper towel to turn off the water and open the bathroom door.
Body Washing
Shower four to seven times a week. Use mild body soap and do not douche. The experts on Kidshealth.org explain that douching can cause infections, irritation and allergic reactions. Furthermore, if you suspect an infection or irritation, douching will further aggravate the problem.
Hair
Proper hair care is an important part of good hygiene. Pull hair back when engaging in strenuous physical activity to minimize clogged pores and outbreaks. Pull hair back while preparing food to ensure that food preparation remains sanitary.
Menstruation
Children's Hospital recommends changing your pad or tampon every four to six hours during menstruation, more if necessary. Wash your hands carefully before and after changing a sanitary device. Shower normally during menstruation and gently wash the pelvic area. If you develop vomiting, high fever, extreme muscle aches or extreme weakness during menstruation you may be suffering from Toxic Shock Syndrome, or TSS. TSS is extremely rare but can be deadly; if you develop severe symptoms see a doctor immediately.
Urinary Tract Infections
Poor hygiene is a leading cause of urinary tract infections in women. When foreign bacteria gets near the opening to the vagina it can migrate to the urinary tract and infect the urethra, the bladder and the kidneys. Avoid this uncomfortable problem by careful hand washing before bathroom use. Also, avoid using antibacterial soap near your labia; it destroys your body's natural bacterial defenses.
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections occur when naturally occurring vaginal bacteria multiply too quickly. They can be minimized with good hygiene. Always wipe front to back after using the bathroom. Change your underwear regularly, especially after strenuous exercise. Most importantly, avoid tight, ill-fitting clothing as it produces a hot, moist environment that encourages bacteria to grow.
