Maintaining good intimate hygiene helps to prevent irritation and infection. The intimate area is exposed to vaginal, urinary, and fecal secretions everyday, and without proper cleansing, these can disrupt the healthy balance of the vulvar microbiota. This is why it’s important to cleanse the external area (the vulva) with gentle, specially formulated products that respect the natural intimate pH and are suitable for every life stage. 

Why Is Intimate Hygiene Important? 

The female intimate area has its own natural microbiota that protects against infections. Proper hygiene helps to prevent discomfort, irritation, and unwanted odour. 
Remember: The vagina cleans itself. Your focus should be on caring for the outer area (the vulva), not washing inside the vagina. 

Disrupting vagina’s natural balance may lead to issues such as: 

• Bacterial vaginosis 

• Yeast infections (candidiasis) 

• Irritation, itching, or dryness 

• Increased risk of urinary tract infections 

How should you clean your intimate area daily? 

Basic recommendations 

• Clean the vulva, not the inside of the vagina. 

• Use warm water and a gentle intimate cleanser, not regular body soap. 

• Choose soap-free products (syndets) with no harsh fragrance and a pH close to the natural intimate pH. 

• Wipe front to back after using the toilet. 

Dry the area gently with a clean towel and avoid rubbing. 

• Wear breathable cotton underwear. 

• Change your underwear daily. 

• Replace pads or tampons every 4 to 6 hours during menses. 

What you should avoid 

• Vaginal douching or internal washing (unless advised by a doctor). 

• Harsh soaps, strong cleansers, or products with alcohol 

• Perfumed wet wipes or intimate deodorants. 

• Tight or synthetic clothing that traps moisture. 

• Frequent full hair removal, which can irritate the skin and reduce natural protection. 

Which Products Are Suitable? 

Gynaecology experts recommend intimate hygiene products that are: 

• Soap-free (syndet type), which reduce chances of irritation 

• Dermatologically and gynecologically tested 

• pH-balanced for each life stage 

• Free from colorants, paraben & harsh fragrance that will disrupt natural microbiota balance 

• Formulated for sensitive skin 

Intimate Hygiene During Menstruation 

During your menstrual period, it is recommended to: 

• Clean the intimate area twice a day 

• Choose intimate products with prebiotics to support the natural microbiota balance 

• Change pads or tampons every 4 to 6 hours 

• Wear comfortable, breathable underwear 

• Avoid harsh or irritating intimate products 

When Should You See a Gynecologist? 

Seek medical advice if you notice: 

• Changes in discharge (colour, smell, or amount) 

• Persistent itching, burning, or irritation 

• Pain during sex or urination 

• Strong odour that doesn’t improve with gentle hygiene 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Is vaginal discharge normal? 

Yes. It’s part of the body’s natural cleansing process. It may vary throughout your cycle, but shouldn’t smell bad or cause discomfort. 

1. Can I use an intimate wash every day? 

Yes, as long as it’s specially formulated for intimate hygiene and not used inside the vagina. 

1. What is the right pH for intimate products? 

• Children & teens: neutral to slightly alkaline (≈6.5–7.5) 

• Childbearing age: acidic (≈4.0–4.5) 

• Pregnancy: more acidic (≈3.5–4.0) 

• Menopause: closer to neutral (≈6.0–7.0) 

1. What type of underwear is best? 

Soft, breathable cotton. Avoid synthetic or very tight fabrics. 

1. Is it necessary to remove all hair? 

No. Pubic hair protects the intimate area from friction and microorganisms. Complete removal may increase chances of irritation. 

1. Are vaginal douches recommended? 

No. They disturb the natural balance and may increase infection risk unless advised by a doctor. 

1. What if I use scented products 

• It’s fine, as long as the product is specially formulated for intimate care and gynecologically & dermatologically tested. 

• It is important to choose products with carefully selected, high-quality fragrances that meet strict safety standards that is suitable for daily use. 

• Using regular scented soaps or harsh fragrances can cause irritation.