Smart Shopping for Feminine Cleansers

The vagina is a very delicately balanced ecosystem, and if it swings out of balance it can become intensely uncomfortable and can lead to serious illness. The vaginal and vulva are comprised of delicate mucus membranes which depend upon certain types of beneficial bacteria to protect them from infection. Feminine hygiene is crucial to preventing infections such as bacterial vaginosis, which can be very uncomfortable and if left untreated can eventually affect your fertility. However, because mucus membranes are much more sensitive than your skin, using soaps and shower gels to wash your vagina is not the best option.

Feminine cleansers are gentle hygiene products that do not contain the astringent ingredients found in regular body soaps and foams. Many of them are designed to help maintain a healthy pH balance in your genital area. The normal pH of your vagina is around 4. When you use regular soap or shower gel, this will usually increase the alkalinity of your vagina, which can result in the growth of unhealthy bacteria which, in turn, will lead to a bacterial or yeast infection.

Feminine cleansers can be invaluable in certain situations, such as at the gym if you don't have time for a shower after your workout. They can help you feel fresh and at the same time reduce bacteria-producing moisture and odor.

What to Look for

When you are choosing a feminine cleanser, first look at the ingredients. Choose a product which has the purest and most gentle compounds, such as chamomile oil, rose oil, allatoin and burdock. Choose a cleanser that will not disturb the alkalinity of your vagina but at the same time will help prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.

If you are looking for a feminine cleanser to carry around with you for when you need to freshen up, look for a foaming cleanser that doesn't need water, rinsing or feminine cleansing tissues. These are perfect for women on the go.

Common Pitfalls

If you are pregnant or nursing, make sure that you choose a cleanser that is safe for you and your baby. Not all cleansers are suitable. You should never use a feminine cleanser that contains herbs that will dry or tighten your vagina. Also avoid any vaginal cleansing sprays. If after using a feminine cleanser you experience burning sensations, itching, discharge, pain when urinating or flu-like symptoms, you should seek medical advice at once.