Intimate hygiene that looks after your bladder

Walk down the toiletries aisle: foams, gels, wipes, sprays, “fresh” this and “active” that. The marketing makes it sound as though your body needs constant help. In reality, the intimate area is largely self-balancing, and the best routine is a short one.

This article covers daily hygiene as it relates to the urinary tract. For the wider picture see 12 everyday habits.

Why does pH matter for intimate hygiene?

The vagina is naturally acidic, thanks to friendly lactobacilli. That slightly acidic setting is part of what keeps it comfortable. Ordinary soaps are usually more alkaline, and strongly scented products can irritate the skin. The skin of the vulva is delicate, and the urethral opening sits close by.

So the rule is simple: wash the outside only, and keep it mild. The inside looks after itself. Read more about this in probiotics and intimate flora.

Which intimate hygiene mistakes should I avoid?

• Douching. It disturbs the natural flora and is not needed.
• Scented wipes, sprays and deodorants. Fragrance is a common irritant.
• Bubble baths and strong bath oils. If you love a long soak, use plain warm water.
• Wiping back to front. Always wipe front to back.
• Staying in damp clothes. Wet swimwear and sweaty gym kit are quiet troublemakers.
• Leaving a tampon or pad too long. Change menstrual products regularly.

What underwear and clothing are best?

Cotton is breathable and absorbs moisture, so it is the friendly choice for daily wear. Synthetic fabrics and very tight trousers can trap warmth and humidity, which many women find uncomfortable. Wash underwear in a mild detergent and rinse well.

At night, many women find it more comfortable to sleep without tight underwear, or in loose cotton. After exercise or swimming, change quickly. More in cold, swimming and travel.

What about periods, the gym and swimming?

Periods and sport

Change pads, tampons or cups at the intervals the packet suggests, and wash your hands before and after. Unscented products are the gentler choice for most women.

After the gym or the pool, shower and change into dry clothes as soon as you can. A spare pair of cotton underwear in your bag is a very small thing that gets used a lot.

Wipes, liners and hair removal

• Wipes: if you use them on the go, choose a fragrance-free version and do not use them as a daily habit.
• Panty liners: fine occasionally, but breathable ones changed often are best.
• Hair removal: shaving and waxing can cause small nicks and irritation; take care and avoid stinging products afterwards.
• Tight shapewear: save it for special days and change afterwards.

How does intimacy fit into hygiene?

Pass urine soon after sex, drink a glass of water and wash gently on the outside. Some contraceptive choices, such as diaphragms or spermicide-coated condoms, can irritate some women; a GP or sexual health clinic can talk through options. Full advice is in cystitis after sex.

One more point many women appreciate: you do not need to “detox” or “freshen” anything. A mild smell is normal and varies with the cycle, diet and sweat. A sudden, strong or unusual change is a reason to ask a professional, not to reach for another spray.

If you are shopping for a wash, check the label for the words “fragrance-free” or “unperfumed”, and avoid anything that stings when you use it. A short ingredient list is usually a kinder one.

Add a gentle daily routine from the inside

Hygiene looks after the outside. Many women pair it with water and a steady urinary routine. Cystobact, our editor’s pick for UK readers, offers D-mannose, cranberry, strawberry-tree leaf and citrus bioflavonoids in capsules: two before lunch and one before dinner, with water.

Frequently asked questions