Necessary products:
– Periods: Everyone has their preference (pads, tampons, menstrual cups), and each choice comes with its pros and cons. While pads and tampons may be easier to use than cups, cups are more eco friendly than the other alternatives. For a more detailed understanding and breakdown of your different options, click HERE.
– Contraception: There are different forms of regular contraception methods available in the market (some off the counter, while some are not) along with emergency contraception options. Please read out post linked HERE for a breakdown of the different regular contraception methods and emergency contraception.
– Soaps and Cleansers: Opting for mild and unscented soaps is generally best, a big misnomer is that you need to insert body wash inside your vaginal canal for thorough cleaning. Our vagina is self cleaning- just cleaning the outside is enough and if you notice any oddities (rashes, bumps, redness etc), get it checked by a gynecologist.
– Lubricants: Having one handy may be helpful as it is sometimes needed during sex (vaginal and anal).
– Probiotics: Having a diet supplemented with some natural probiotics is recommended. Probiotic foods include overnight-fermented rice (cooked) with yogurt, kimchi, kefir etc.
– Gentle detergent : Using a gentle cleaner can reduce chances of an infection, can help maintain the natural body pH and is better for sensitive skin. Keep an eye out for fragrances, dyes, chlorine, formaldehyde etc. You can alternatively use Yuka (app) to scan the detergent to see if the rating is high enough for it to suit your needs.
– Cotton: At minimum, the gusset of underwear (gusset is the panty pocket/lining of the underwear that touches your outer vagina) should be 100% cotton. Cotton is breathable and has natural anti-bacterial properties which can help reduce the risk of fungal and bacterial infection.
Unnecessary products/consult a doctor before use:
– Special cleansers and sprays: Vaginal cleaners and sprays ( for smell, thorough cleaning etc) are bought frequently due to the aggressive marketing however please keep in mind that simple soaps for cleaning the outside of the vagina are enough and some of these cleansers (especially if you use them to clean inside the vaginal canal) can cause infections and irritations
– Scented products: These can include scented pads or wipes (please don’t insert any of them inside you). If they are scented then they may contain parfum (alcohol) or essential oils, which can cause irritation and infection in some cases.
– Tight underwear or clothes: Other than discomfort, they can cause sweating (hotbed for bacterial growth which creates odor), and the chafing can cause redness and rashes.
– Please be cautious with products marketed as offering “great taste/smell,” “tightening,” or “detox”. It’s essential to consult your doctor or gynecologist before trying these products. Your health and safety should always come first.
– Supplements: Please get a blood test done and speak to your doctor before you start any supplements.
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