Vaginal Health 101: Essential Information For All Mums

Vaginal Health 101: Essential Information For All Mums

9 Feb 2023 | 3 min Read

Manisha Pradhan

Author | 1053 Articles

Vaginal health is important for women’s overall well-being, and all mums must take care of it, be concerned about it and understand how to maintain vaginal health. 

But what constitutes a healthy vagina? 

Depending on the age, the vagina normally has an acidic pH, is naturally lubricated and contains large quantities of good bacteria. Small amounts of discharge that the vagina secretes are another healthy sign of it.

While not all vaginal problems can be prevented, there are some ways to maintain good vaginal health. Here’s how.

What Are The Signs Or Symptoms Of Vaginal Problems? 

Consult your health care provider if you notice: 

  • Vaginal redness or itching. 
  • A change in the colour.
  • Too much vaginal discharge.
  • Vaginal bleeding between periods, or after sex.
  • Pain during intercourse 
  • Mass or bulge in the vagina 
vaginal health
Vaginal infections can cause discomfort, itching, burning, and pain, therefore it’s essential to maintain vaginal health/Image source: freepik

What Are The Most Common Vaginal Infections?

Some of the common vaginal health problems that women experience are:

  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs),
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
  • Bacterial vaginosis
  • Yeast infections
  • Vaginal dryness. 

These conditions can cause discomfort, itching, burning, and even pain, and it’s crucial to seek medical treatment if you experience any of these symptoms.

How To Maintain Vaginal Health

Avoid Harsh Chemicals 

One of the most important things you can do to maintain vaginal health is to keep the area clean and dry. This means avoiding harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes in your hygiene products. Use an intimate wash that contains natural products. It’s also important to change out of wet swimwear and exercise clothes promptly to prevent the growth of bacteria and yeast.

Maintain A Healthy Diet

Another key aspect of vaginal health is maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C, E, and B, and staying hydrated is important for vaginal health. Additionally, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption can also help to maintain vaginal health.

Practice Safe Sex

It’s also essential to practice safe sex to prevent the transmission of STIs. This means using condoms during sexual intercourse and getting regular STI screenings. If you have multiple partners, it’s especially important to be mindful of your sexual health and get tested regularly.

Use Water Based Lubricants

Another common issue for young mothers is vaginal dryness, which can occur due to hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding. To combat dryness, consider using a water-based lubricant during sexual intercourse, or try using a moisturizer specifically designed for vaginal use.

Schedule Regular Gynaecological Checks

Finally, it’s essential to schedule regular gynaecological exams to monitor your vaginal health. These exams can help to detect any issues early on and allow for prompt treatment, as well as provide an opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.

By maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, practising safe sex, and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can keep your vagina in top shape. If you have any concerns or questions about your vaginal health, don’t be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about it.

Cover image source: freepik

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Suggestions offered by doctors on BabyChakra are of advisory nature i.e., for educational and informational purposes only. Content posted on, created for, or compiled by BabyChakra is not intended or designed to replace your doctor's independent judgment about any symptom, condition, or the appropriateness or risks of a procedure or treatment for a given person.