Everyday Personal Hygiene Considerations

Good personal hygiene is mostly a matter of a few consistent habits. It protects against infection, keeps skin comfortable and supports confidence. It is also an area surrounded by marketing for products that are unnecessary or even counterproductive. Here is what health authorities actually recommend.

Hand hygiene

The CDC advises washing hands with soap and clean running water, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds, then rinsing and drying. Wash:

• before, during and after preparing food;
• before eating;
• after using the toilet;
• before and after changing menstrual products;
• after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing;
• before and after caring for someone who is ill or treating a wound.

If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.

Bathing and skin

Daily washing of the underarms, groin and feet removes sweat and bacteria. Use a mild cleanser, dry skin folds thoroughly and moisturize dry areas. Change underwear and socks every day, and change out of damp workout clothes promptly.

Intimate hygiene

What to do

• Wash the vulva, the external genital area, with warm water. A mild, unperfumed soap can be used on the outside only.
• Pat dry gently.
• Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid very tight clothing for long periods.
• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.

What to avoid

• Douching. The Office on Women’s Health states that doctors recommend that you do not douche. Douching changes the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and is linked to bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease and problems during pregnancy.
• Scented products. Perfumed washes, sprays, wipes and deodorants can irritate delicate skin.
• Washing inside the vagina. It cleans itself through natural discharge.

What is normal

Vaginal discharge is normal. It is usually clear or white and does not have a strong or unpleasant smell. The amount and texture change during the menstrual cycle. See a doctor if discharge changes in color, smell or consistency, or if you have itching, soreness or pain.

Period hygiene

• Change pads every few hours, and tampons every 4 to 8 hours.
• Follow the instructions for emptying and cleaning a menstrual cup.
• Wash your hands before and after.
• Wrap used products and put them in a bin; do not flush them.
• Rinse the vulva with water as usual; no special cleansing is needed.

Keep supplies handy, such as Ultra-Thin Pads with Wings and Daily Cotton Liners.

Preventing urinary tract infections

UTIs are common in women. The Office on Women’s Health suggests:

• urinate when you need to, and do not hold it for long periods;
• wipe from front to back;
• drink plenty of fluids;
• urinate before and after sex;
• avoid douches and feminine hygiene sprays;
• wear underwear with a cotton crotch.

See a doctor if you have pain or burning when urinating, a frequent urge to go, or cloudy or bloody urine.

Oral hygiene

The CDC recommends brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth daily and visiting a dentist at least once a year. Hormonal changes in pregnancy can make gums more prone to inflammation, so dental care remains important then.

Hair and nails

Wash hair as often as your scalp type requires. Keep nails short and clean, and avoid sharing nail tools.

Do not share personal items

Razors, towels, toothbrushes and menstrual cups should not be shared. They can pass on bacteria, fungi and viruses.

Hygiene around sex

Urinating afterward may help prevent UTIs. Condoms reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Wash sex toys as their instructions direct.

Clothing and laundry

• Wash underwear, towels and bed linen regularly.
• Choose breathable fabrics.
• If you have sensitive skin, try fragrance-free detergent.

When to seek advice

See a doctor or pharmacist about:

• persistent itching, burning or soreness;
• unusual discharge or odor;
• sores, lumps or rashes;
• pain during sex or when urinating;
• bleeding between periods or after sex.

These are common, treatable problems, and there is no need to feel embarrassed.

The bottom line

Clean hands, gentle external washing, regular product changes and breathable clothing cover most of what matters. Skip douches and perfumed intimate products. Find everyday care items in our women’s health range.

Sources

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Handwashing.
2. Office on Women's Health. Douching.
3. Office on Women's Health. Urinary tract infections.
4. NHS. Vaginal discharge.
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Oral Health Tips for Adults.