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(Dr. Preety Aggarwal)

Conversations around intimate hygiene remain limited, and the use of external products to maintain it is still widely debated. As we step into Cervical Health Awareness Month, it becomes crucial to understand the potency of marketed intimate wash products and whether they truly deserve a place on our washroom racks.

To begin with, the female genital tract has a natural flora of microbes, both beneficial and harmful, much like the gut microbiome. The bacteria naturally present in the genital tract help maintain a healthy pH and prevent the growth of unwanted germs.

This brings us to an important question: Do we really need external cleansing solutions, or does the genital tract clean itself?

Science Behind Natural Cleansing

To clarify, the vagina is the internal part of the female genital tract, while the vulva forms the external. The vulvar pH typically ranges between 3.5–4.7 and the vaginal pH can vary based on age, menstruation, hormonal changes, and other factors.

The pH of the genital tract plays a crucial role in determining how susceptible a person may be to infections or the growth of harmful microbes.

Studies show that beneficial bacteria residing in the genital tract produce substances that inhibit the growth of yeast and other harmful microorganisms. They also act as a protective barrier against potentially harmful foreign bodies that may invade the genital tract.

So yes, the vagina is biologically well equipped to clean itself.

Do We Really Need 'Intimate' Wash Products?

Many healthcare providers are increasingly recognising that these external solutions may cause more harm than good.

'Intimate' or 'feminine' wash products are lab-made solutions often marketed as cleansers similar to soaps or shampoos. However, unlike skin and hair, the vagina is a self-cleaning organ. The use of external chemicals, even those labelled mild, can disrupt the natural microbiome, increasing the risk of conditions such as bacterial vaginosis. They may also cause dryness, itching, irritation, and sometimes unusual discharge with a distinct odor. When the pH balance is disturbed, the likelihood of developing yeast infections increases.

Most experts agree that plain water is sufficient to clean the external genital area by flushing away sweat and surface bacteria. For those who still choose to use intimate wash products, their use should be limited and cautious.

Could The Problem Be Cultural?

Growing research suggests that many people purchase intimate wash products due to the desire for a perfumed, 'fresh' scent. Healthcare experts, however, emphasise that it is completely normal for the genital tract to have a unique, musky scent. In fact, this natural odor plays a protective role.

The desire to use these products is therefore often driven by societal standards and stigma rather than medical necessity. If you notice a significant change in the colour, consistency, or odor of vaginal discharge, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Dr. Preety Aggarwal is  MBBS, DGO, DNB and Medical Director (Gurgaon) – Obstetrics and Gynecology at Motherhood hospital Gurgaon

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]