Scenario: It’s 2 p.m., and I’m sitting in the middle of a meeting when it hits me. Not a brilliant idea, not a flash of genius, but a whiff of something unpleasant. You know what I’m talking about—that sinking feeling that maybe something’s not as fresh as it should be down there. It’s happened to all of us at some point, right? But instead of feeling embarrassed or panicked, I’ve learned to take these moments as a reminder: It’s time to check in with myself and give my v-jay jay the love and care it deserves.
Talking about vaginal health can feel a little taboo, but it really shouldn’t be. I mean, we all have bodies, and taking care of them—including our most intimate parts—is essential for feeling good, confident, and healthy. So, let’s ditch the awkwardness and dive into everything you need to know about keeping your lady bits fresh, happy, and healthy.
What You Wear Matters More Than You Think
We’ve all been there—wearing tight leggings all day or opting for cute but synthetic undies. But did you know that what you wear can affect your vaginal health? Turns out, our vaginas need to breathe, just like the rest of us.
Cotton underwear is a must. I know, I know—lace and silk are fun, but cotton allows your skin to breathe, keeping moisture at bay. That means fewer opportunities for bacteria to throw a party down there.
Skip the tight clothes (at least sometimes). I love my yoga pants as much as the next person, but wearing tight, non-breathable fabrics can trap moisture and heat, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to flourish. I’m not saying ditch your skinny jeans forever, but give your body a break when you can.
Nighttime freedom. Did you know that going commando at night can actually help your vagina stay fresh? Letting your lady bits breathe while you sleep allows everything to air out after a long day. Plus, who doesn’t love a little freedom?
Washing 101: Keep It Simple, Seriously
I used to think that keeping my vagina squeaky clean required a whole arsenal of products. Newsflash: it doesn’t. In fact, using too many products can do more harm than good. The vagina is pretty amazing at cleaning itself, so the goal is to let it do its thing without interference. I personally love Summer’s Eves products. I have been using their sensitive wash for years and it does the trick for me.
Stick to mild, unscented soap. Fragranced soaps and washes can disrupt the natural pH balance of your vagina, leading to irritation or infections. Use a gentle, unscented soap on the outside (your vulva), and leave the inside alone—it cleans itself.
Warm water is enough. Honestly, a quick rinse with warm water is often all you need. Over-washing or scrubbing can strip away the natural, protective bacteria that keep things in balance.
Pat, don’t rub. After washing, be gentle! Pat your vulva dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing it. Keeping the area dry is crucial to prevent bacteria growth.
Foods That Affect Vaginal Health
Surprise, surprise—what we put into our bodies affects our vaginal health too. Certain foods can cause changes in vaginal odor, while others help keep things balanced and healthy.
Stay hydrated. Water is your best friend. Staying hydrated helps flush out toxins, which can contribute to overall freshness down there. Sometimes I add a bit of lemon or lime for extra flavor and it’s detoxing capabilities.
Watch out for strong-smelling foods. Love garlic, onions, or spicy food? So do I. I particularly love curry based foods, but all of these they can affect the way you smell—everywhere. While it’s not a reason to skip your favorite dishes, just be mindful that what you eat can have an effect.
Probiotics are a win. Incorporating foods like yogurt, which contain probiotics, can actually help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your vagina. A healthy gut equals a happy vagina!
Cut back on sugar. Yeast loves sugar, and a diet high in sugary foods can contribute to yeast infections. Reducing your sugar intake can help keep things balanced.
What NOT to Do
Even with the best intentions, we can all make mistakes when it comes to vaginal care. Here are a few things I’ve learned to avoid over the years:
Ditch the douches. They’re often marketed as the solution to freshness, but douching can actually throw off your vagina’s natural pH balance, making things worse. Your vagina is like a well-oiled machine—it cleans itself!
Avoid over washing. You don’t need to scrub multiple times a day. Washing too often can irritate your skin and disrupt your natural bacteria. Once a day is enough.
Change out of wet clothes ASAP. Whether it’s a sweaty workout or a dip in the pool, don’t hang around in wet clothes. Moisture trapped against your skin creates a breeding ground for bacteria and can lead to odor or infection.
Recognizing Red Flags
We all know our bodies best, but sometimes it can be hard to tell when something’s off or if it’s just a normal variation. Here are a few red flags that shouldn’t be ignored and if they appear, call your OB/GYN or Primary Care Provider.
- Persistent foul odor. If you notice a strong, fishy smell that won’t go away, it could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis, which is common but needs treatment with antibiotics.
- Unusual discharge. A thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese might indicate a yeast infection. Meanwhile, yellow or greenish discharge could point to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or bacterial infection. It’s always better to get it checked out!
- Itching or burning. Some mild irritation is normal from time to time, but if you’re experiencing persistent itching or burning, it’s time to make an appointment.
- Pain during sex or urination. This could be a sign of an infection or another underlying issue. Don’t ignore it—your gynecologist is there to help.
- Irregular bleeding. Spotting between periods or after sex? It’s worth getting checked out to rule out any potential issues.
Daily Routine for a Fresh V-Jay Jay
Creating a consistent routine will go a long way in keeping your vaginal area fresh and healthy. Here’s my go-to:
- Morning: Quick wash with warm water and a gentle, unscented soap. Throw on some comfy, breathable cotton undies and get ready to conquer the day.
- Throughout the day: If I’m hitting the gym or sweating a lot, I make sure to change out of my workout gear ASAP. Keeping things dry is key.
- Nighttime: Sometimes I go commando (it’s seriously liberating), and other times I stick to loose, comfortable cotton PJs.
Taking care of your v-jay jay doesn’t have to be complicated, and it certainly shouldn’t be embarrassing. We all deserve to feel fresh, confident, and comfortable in our bodies. By making a few small changes—like choosing the right clothing, keeping your hygiene routine simple, and paying attention to what you eat—you can help ensure your vaginal health stays in top shape. And don’t forget: When something feels off, trust your instincts and schedule that GYN appointment. There’s no shame in taking care of yourself!
Photo Attributions: www.freepik.com
