Can douching lead to vaginal dryness?

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

"Douche" is a French term that means to wash or soak. It is a technique for cleaning the vagina that often uses a solution of water and vinegar. Antiseptics and perfumes are found in the pouches that are offered at pharmacies and grocery stores. A douche is sprayed into the vagina through a tube from a container or bag. Women claim they douche to remove offensive smells, wash away menstrual blood after their period, avoid contracting STDs, and avoid becoming pregnant after having sex. This practice also helps them feel more refreshed but it can lead to vaginal dryness.

Health specialists claim that douching is unsuccessful for achieving cleanliness.They also caution against it since it may actually raise the chance of infections, difficult deliveries, and other medical issues. Douching disturbs the normal bacterial equilibrium of your vagina (called vaginal flora). The environment for the growth of infection-causing bacteria has been improved by these modifications. Compared to women who don't douche, those who douche more frequently have more difficulties getting pregnant.

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Douching increases the danger of STIs and takes your peace of mind. Some of the STIs that can harm a woman's reproductive system are chlamydia and gonorrhoea. That much is true. It is crucial to avoid putting anything within the vagina for this reason. Avoid douching, scraping inside, or using scented products since the vagina is a self-cleaning organ and these procedures will only make you more prone to infection. The vagina may be kept clean and fresh with just soap and water, according to experts. There is no need to put anything else down there!

Additionally, the way you wash your vagina needs to be meticulous. Vaginal cleaning should be done from front to back, not the other way around. This is because to the possibility of bacteria from your anal region entering your vagina if you do it the other way around. Be wary, then!