Is It Possible To Use Shower Gel for Your Private Area?

Intimate zones are sensitive areas with a particular ecosystem that must be respected to prevent infections, dryness and irritation problems. Indeed, the vaginal flora is composed to 95% of lactic bacteria or lactobacilli. They protect the vagina from infections by preventing the proliferation of pathogenic microbes. The lactobacilli protect the vagina by producing lactic acid which makes the environment acidic and hostile to most microbes. However, the vaginal flora is fragile, and excessive genital hygiene is one of the main reasons for its disruption.

Normally, the vagina does not need to be cleaned with a special product, water is enough. However, some women prefer to use an intimate cleanser, especially if they have bad odors. The use of a shower gel for intimate cleansing is normally not contraindicated, as long as it is gentle, soap-free, fragrance-free and respects the physiological pH of the vagina, which is between 4.5 and 8. More precisely, the vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 4.5, while the pH of the vulva area is generally neutral. However, for women who are prone to fungal infections, a cleanser with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH is recommended to prevent the development of fungal spores. Indeed, fungi proliferate in an acidic environment.

Certain actions can harm the balance of the vaginal flora and encourage infections. Here are some practices to avoid:

• Vaginal douche: This consists of using an enema bulb or a shower head to clean the inside of the vagina. The vagina has a natural cleaning system and does not need external intervention. The main risk of douching is to reduce the number of lactobacilli and to unbalance the vaginal flora.

• Use an intimate deodorant: A healthy vagina does not smell bad, so there is no need to use a deodorant for this part of the body. It is not necessary to use a deodorant for this part of the body, as it may unbalance the vaginal flora and cause irritation or even burning.

• Use a washcloth or a shower flower: These shower accessories are real nests for bacteria and should not be used to clean the private area. In addition, their rough texture can damage the mucous membrane.

• Washing too often: A daily intimate cleansing is sufficient. Washing several times a day increases the risk of infection.

• Wearing a panty liner every day: This practice can lead to irritation and fungal infections. It is advisable to wear them only during periods of heavy vaginal discharge (before the period and in the middle of the cycle).