How can I maintain healthy vaginal hygiene?

Last reviewed June 1, 2026 by Dr. Sapna Jadhav, General Physician. Sources from ACOG, NHS, Mayo Clinic, CDC, NICE, NIH, Cochrane, and peer-reviewed journals.

Bottom lineWash the vulva externally once daily with warm water (or a mild unscented cleanser); never douche or use scented sprays or wipes; wear breathable cotton underwear, change menstrual products every 4-8 hours, wipe front to back, and see a clinician if discharge, odor, itching, or pain change unexpectedly.

Good vaginal hygiene is simpler than most people think. The key principle: your vagina is self-cleaning - your job is to support that process, not interfere with it.

The basics

Do: Wash the vulva gently

• Clean the external area (vulva) with warm water daily
• If you use soap, choose a mild, unscented, pH-balanced wash
• Gently wash the folds of the labia
• Never wash inside the vagina - it cleans itself through discharge

Don't: Douche

• Douching disrupts the natural balance of bacteria
• It washes away the good bacteria (lactobacilli) that protect against infections
• Studies consistently show douching increases the risk of infections, not decreases it

Daily habits

Underwear

• Wear breathable, cotton underwear - cotton allows air circulation
• Change underwear daily
• Avoid wearing wet or damp underwear (after swimming or exercise)
• Going commando at night can help with air circulation

Clothing

• Avoid tight-fitting pants or leggings for prolonged periods
• Change out of sweaty workout clothes promptly
• Wear loose-fitting clothes when possible, especially in hot weather

Wiping

• Always wipe front to back after using the toilet
• This prevents bacteria from the rectal area from entering the vagina

Menstrual products

• Change pads every 4–6 hours
• Change tampons every 4–8 hours (never leave one in longer than 8 hours)
• Clean menstrual cups according to manufacturer instructions
• Wash your hands before and after changing products

What to avoid

• Scented products - No scented soaps, sprays, wipes, or deodorants near the vagina. These disrupt pH and can cause irritation
• Harsh cleansers - Regular soap can be too alkaline for the vaginal area
• Scented tampons or pads - Opt for unscented varieties
• Sitting in wet clothes - Warm, moist environments encourage yeast growth
• Over-washing - Washing the vulva once daily is sufficient. More can cause dryness and irritation

Diet and lifestyle

• Stay hydrated - Water supports healthy mucus production
• Eat probiotics - Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods support healthy vaginal bacteria
• Limit sugar - Excess sugar can promote yeast growth
• Practice safe sex - Use condoms to reduce STI risk; urinate after sex to help prevent UTIs

During your period

• Maintain regular hygiene practices
• Change products frequently
• Shower or wash the vulva at least once daily
• It's fine to shower or bathe during your period

When to see a doctor

Even with good hygiene, infections can happen. See a doctor if you notice:

• Unusual discharge (color, smell, or texture changes)
• Persistent itching or burning
• Pain during urination or sex
• Any sores, bumps, or rashes

Track your daily symptoms and cycle in Femora to stay aware of changes and keep your healthcare provider informed with accurate data.