How to Clean Vulva During Periods [Essential Tips]

It's 2024, and you are still confused about how to clean your vulva. Aren't you? 

Nope, not me? I use XYZ Intimate Wash. 

Whose tagline says, “Give yourself the gift of freshness”. 

I use it daily and feel fresh like a daisy. I clean myself inside out. Do you? My favourite actress also uses it, and so do I.

If you, too, have fallen for this marketing gimmick, then this article is the right place to find out how to clean your vulva properly, especially during periods.

What is Vulva, and Why isn’t it Vagina?

 

Table of contents:

1. Understanding Menstrual Hygiene

2. Right Products to Clean Your Intimate Area

3. Period Underwear and Vulva Hygiene

4. How to Properly Wash your Vulva

5. How to Maintain Genital Hygiene

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Understanding Menstrual Hygiene

I understand when you don't want to clean the mess up during your period. It could be because you are too tired and frustrated with the pain, fatigue, cramps, or any other thing. On top of that, menstrual symptoms make it impossible to attend to personal hygiene needs effectively. 

I have been there myself. But I found a solution! 

Period underwear!

You must be thinking how?

Let's understand first what is menstrual hygiene. It is basically keeping your intimate region clean and dry so that bacteria do not get a breeding ground. Period Underwear does exactly the same thing. It locks up all the fluid and lets you forget that you were even bleeding.

Keeping oneself clean during the menstrual cycle is essential to preventing infections such as urinary tract infections and bacterial vaginosis. 

A number of health problems can arise from poor personal hygiene during periods. So get that butt moving!

 

Also Read: Period Underwear vs. Pads and Tampons: Which is Right for You?

 

The Right Products to Clean Your Intimate Area

With so many feminine wash options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to pick. Before adding it to your menstrual hygiene regimen, take into account these few things:  

1. Mild, Fragrance-Free Soaps:

Using gentle, fragrance-free soaps made especially for delicate skin and intimate hygiene goes a long way toward preserving your vulva's natural balance and health. Seek for products that do not contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, as well as ones with a pH balance. 

After using such gentle soaps, thoroughly washing the area with water can aid vulvar hygiene without adding to the irritation or upsetting the healthy balance of the area.

2. Consideration of Hypoallergenic Wipes:

Hypoallergenic wipes are designed to be gentle on sensitive skin, making them suitable for menstruation. They can effectively cleanse the genital area during your periods. 

Hypoallergenic wipes are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol that cause irritation. Wipes provide a convenient way to freshen up and maintain menstrual cleanliness, especially when access to bathrooms or running water is limited. They can be carried easily and used on the go.

 

Also Read: Vaginal Itching Before Period: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Remedies

 

3. Say NO to Intimate Washes: 

Intimate wash products are pointless and actually do more harm than good.

Yes! You heard it right. 

Intimate washes can disrupt the natural acidic pH balance balance of the vagina, leading to an increased risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. Moreover, hygiene washes often contain fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals that can irritate the delicate skin in the genital area.

So think twice before giving your vagina a wash with that fancy product!

Period Underwear and Vulva Hygiene

Periods can be messy, and your vulva health can take a backstep. Period Underwear can help you care for your vulva. How? Let's see!

• Period underwear uses fabric made of cotton, which is soft on your intimate skin and lets your vulva breathe.
• There is no rashy plastic or silica, which can hurt your skin and or provide space for bacteria to creep in.
• Period Underwear is just like your usual undie with added superpowers. It does not involve any insertion or any extra stuffing of layers, keeping you free from any annoyance.

So, if you are planning to switch to a healthy vulva care routine, do not forget to add in a Qnix Period Underwear.

How to properly wash your vulva

We know what to use and what not to, and now we need to know how to give our vulva a gentle, refreshing bath. So here you go:

Wash gently  with Warm Water:

Warm water is gentle on the sensitive skin of the vulva. It helps remove sweat, bad bacteria and without causing irritation or stripping away the natural oils that protect the skin.

Warm water is mild and less likely to cause dryness, helping to maintain proper moisture levels. Gentle washing with warm water respects the body's ability to maintain cleanliness.

Wipe front-to-back to Prevent Infection:

When cleaning the intimate area or after using the restroom, always wipe from the front to the back. This means starting at the front of the vulva (the urethral opening) and moving towards the back (the anal area). 

This technique helps prevent bacteria from the anal area from entering the vagina or urethra, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal infections.

Avoid Scrubbing:

Gentleness is key when caring for the vulva.  It's essential to avoid rough materials, vigorous scrubbing motions, and harsh cleansers that can compromise the delicate skin and its natural defences.

Opting for soft, non-abrasive materials for washing, using mild soaps or specifically formulated intimate washes, and avoiding excessive friction during cleaning are essential practices to protect the vulvar skin from harm. 

 

Also Read: Surviving Painful Periods: Tips for Relief and Comfort

 

How to maintain Genital Hygiene

1. Avoiding Douching:

If you are reading this article and are concerned about your vulva care, then you must have come across a word called douching. Douching involves rinsing or cleaning the inside of the vagina with a solution, usually, water mixed with vinegar, baking soda, or commercial douching products.

While some may believe it helps maintain cleanliness, douching is not recommended for external genital hygiene as it disrupts this balance by flushing out both harmful and beneficial bacteria. 

This imbalance can lead to increased vulnerability to infections like bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, or urinary tract infections.

2. Wearing Breathable, Cotton Underwear:

Breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials allow better airflow and moisture evaporation. It lets your vulva take a deep sigh and helps prevent the risk of skin irritation, rashes, and fungal or bacterial growth.

Synthetic materials that are too tight or unbreathable should be avoided as they can retain heat and moisture and increase the risk of infections and discomfort.

3. Proper Drying After Washing:

Moisture trapped in underwear can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Bacteria thrive in damp conditions, and wearing moist underwear can increase the risk of infections and unpleasant odours.

Now the question is, what should you do?

• Hang or lay the underwear flat in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely. 
• Do not store underwear in a drawer or container while still damp. 
• Consider using a dryer, with a gentle setting and ensure the underwear is fully dry before removing it.

4. Changing Menstrual Products Regularly

I know you already know this, but this is just a gentle reminder that it's been 4 hours, and you haven't changed that pad. So just rush to the bathroom immediately!

The prolonged use of period products, like tampons or pads, can foster the growth of bacteria. Regularly changing these products—typically every 4–8 hours—helps prevent bacterial overgrowth and lowers the risk of urinary tract infections and bacterial vaginosis. 

Tips for Discreet Changing in Public Places:

Did you say travel? I heard periods. I can literally listen to my period’s devil laugh mocking me that I am going to ruin your whole trip. 

But I have got you covered girl! Follow these tips to have a comfortable, easy and hassle-free travel.

• Carry Discreet Supplies.
• Wear Clothing with Pockets for discreetly carrying pads or tampons
• Opt for restrooms with single stalls or quieter areas in public restrooms for more privacy. 
• Carry a spare or small pouch dedicated to storing used products until you can dispose of them discreetly.
• Qnix menstrual cups or Qnix period underwear can be convenient options for longer wear times, reducing the need for frequent changes in public settings.

You Do not have to think twice about your menstrual hygiene before going on a trek coz Qnix Period Underwear has got you all covered. 

Be it stains or hygiene Qnix Period Underwear is at your service, ma’am. Elevate your period hygiene with Qnix Period Underwear. Shop now for discreet protection and lasting comfort!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How Does Qnix Period Underwear Enhance Hygiene?

Qnix Period underwear wicks away all the moisture and keeps you super dry throughout the day. So no space for bacteria to get in your pants.

2. Can Qnix Period Underwear be Worn Alongside Pads and Tampons?

Qnix Backup Period Underwear is a perfect duo to be worn with traditional menstrual products.  It gives you the perfect backup and space to bleed freely when it's your heavy flow day, or you are travelling or it's just a long day, plus you don't have to worry about the leaks. 

3. How to Maintain and Clean Qnix Period Underwear?

Caring for your period buddy can prolong its lifespan and maintain its effectiveness. Here are a few ways to show love to your Qnix Period Underwear:

• Rinse Immediately: After use, rinse the period underwear with cold water to remove excess blood. Avoid using hot water as it can set stains and odours.
• Pre-treat Stains: If necessary, pre-treat any stubborn stains with a stain remover or a gentle soap before washing. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the fabric.
• Machine Wash in Cold Water: Wash period underwear in cold water using a gentle cycle. Use mild, fragrance-free detergent to avoid irritating the skin and compromising the fabric's absorbency.
• Avoid Fabric Softeners and Bleach: Fabric softeners can reduce the absorbency of the underwear. Additionally, bleach can damage the fabric and affect its effectiveness.
• Air Dry: Hang Qnix period underwear to air dry instead of using a dryer. Direct sunlight can help naturally disinfect and remove stains, but avoid excessive heat as it can damage the fabric.
• Store Properly: Store clean and dry period underwear in a well-ventilated area. Avoid storing them when damp, as this can lead to mould or bacterial growth.

 

Also Read: Period Underwear FAQs: Your Comprehensive Guide