Choosing the Right Feminine Wash for Your Vulva
Ladies, we know the struggle. When it comes to a feminine wash, the information out there can be confusing. From “don’t do it!” to “this one makes you smell like roses!”, there is no shortage of opinions and options. The bottom line is this: it’s not a matter of “do” or “don’t”–it’s a matter of choosing the safest wash that’s right for your vulva.
We are here to help! Say la V.® cuts through the confusion, so you can make informed, healthy decisions about your vulva. So, are you ready for a no-nonsense look at feminine washes? Let’s get started.
#sayVulva
First, let’s review the correct terminology. Here at say la V., we know there are varying degrees of comfort and knowledge when it comes to female anatomy. However, when it comes to caring for our bodies, it’s important to know the difference between the vagina and the vulva.
The short answer is your vagina is internal, while your vulva is external. In everyday conversation, we might call everything down there “the vagina,” but that word only refers to the internal canal connecting the uterus to the outer body. The second half of this duo—the vulva—includes the external genitalia like the labia, clitoris, vaginal opening, and urethra.
Now, that we’ve cleared that up, let’s tackle another common misconception…
Can You Wash Your Vulva?
Yes! Unlike the vagina, which is self-cleaning, the vulva is not.
So, ditch the unnecessary, potentially harmful (no vaginal infections, please!) douching products meant to convince women to wash inside their vaginas. Instead, let’s focus on our vulva—that special area of skin that has special skincare needs.
Why Do Women Wash Their Vulva?
Picture this: you’re turning on the shower and can’t wait to wash the day away. That grimy feeling? About to be banished from your body, and maybe you pay extra attention to those extra sweaty areas like the arm pits. But, wait, don’t forget your vulva!
Keeping your vulva clean is important because the area contains sweat glands like those under your arms. As we know, sweaty conditions can lead to odor and bacteria buildup. Washing the vulva helps us feel more fresh and confident. But regular body soap can irritate the vulva’s sensitive skin. That’s why it’s important to gently cleanse with a feminine wash specifically designed for the vulva.
Please, please remember that your vulva and vagina have their own subtle odor—and that’s perfectly normal! You don’t need to mask it with harsh, heavily perfumed soaps that can cause discomfort and dryness. However, if you notice a strong, unpleasant smell (think yeasty or fishy), then it’s time to check in with your doctor.
How Do I Wash My Vulva?
The best way to wash your vulva is gently with warm water. Spread the labia—sometimes called the lips—apart and cleanse with the warm water using your hands or a soft washcloth. Always move front to back when washing down there.
Since we've ditched the harsh, heavily scented products, potentially containing parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances, what to use instead? To best maintain the vulva’s sensitive skin, choose a gentle, natural feminine wash that nourishes and hydrates.
Choosing the Right Feminine Wash
So, with all this new knowledge, you’re ready to give your vulva the TLC it deserves, but how to choose the right feminine wash for you?
- First, read carefully! Both vulva washes and douches may be labeled as a “feminine wash.” Steer clear of those unnecessary (and potentially painful) douches. Vaginas are self-cleaning and don’t need our help. Be sure to choose a feminine wash that is not labeled as a douche.
- Avoid ingredients like parabens, sulphates, and artificial fragrances as these can lead to dryness, irritation, and skin sensitivity.
- Look for natural ingredients that are gentle on the vulva and help keep its pH balance. Ingredients like jojoba, which mimics the body’s natural moisture; prebiotics, which support a balanced microbiome; and vitamin E extract, which soothes sensitive skin (think, after shaving!) all add up to a happier, healthier vulva.
- Find products tested by the folks who know vulvas the best (gynecologists and dermatologists) and can give the thumbs-up to a wash’s safety and effectiveness.
Feminine Wash 101: What to Remember
Let’s recap those vulva and feminine wash dos and don’ts!- Washing is A-Okay: It’s perfectly safe and hygienic to gently wash your vulva every day. Just be sure to choose the right product for the job.
- Vulva vs. Vagina: The vulva is external, and the vagina is internal. So, keep those douches far away from your vulva (and vagina!). Stick to cleansing externally with a feminine wash.
- Natural over Artificial: Your vulva has its own delicate ecosystem. Natural ingredients help keep everything down there balanced and comfortable. Artificial ingredients can mess with your pH and good bacteria balance, leading to irritation.
Where to Buy a Feminine Wash?
At say la V., we are on a Vagenda® to empower women with knowledge about their bodies and intimate care. We’re committed to being straight-up, offering transparency with full ingredient disclosures, and never playing the shame-game, giving you science-backed information, so you can make the important choices based on your needs.
Our Nourishing Veauty Wash is just one way we support your self-care and everyday wellness. It’s made with your vulva’s sensitive skin in mind, using natural ingredients to soothe and hydrate without disrupting your natural balance. No harsh chemicals or fake fragrances in sight.
So, go ahead—wash your vulva! Take time to prioritize that total body skincare. Just ensure you have the right product to do so.
Where Can I Learn More?
For authentic conversations and real information, visit our Vagenda. We have diagrams, blogs, links, articles, and products there to empower your vulva care choices.
