If you’re dealing with vaginal odour, discharge or want to freshen up after your period, the idea of douching can seem tempting. It’s a good way to ‘flush it all out’ right? Well, not really.
Despite its popularity in certain cultures and communities, health experts strongly advise against douching. Here’s an explanation of what douching is, why some people consider it, and the reasons you should avoid it (backed by scientific evidence and expert opinions).
What is Douching?
Douching involves using a device to squirt a mixture of water and other fluids, often containing vinegar, baking soda, or antiseptics, into the vagina. Commercial douching products are readily available and sometimes come with added fragrances.
Why Some People Consider Douching
One of the main reasons people consider douche is the belief that it will make them cleaner, by washing away menstrual blood, semen or vaginal secretions.
Many believe that douching will eliminate vaginal odours. However, vaginal odour is often a sign of an underlying infection or imbalance, not a lack of cleanliness. Douching can mask these odours temporarily but does not address the root cause, potentially delaying necessary medical treatment.
Another common misconception is that douching can prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other vaginal infections and in some cultures, douching is a traditional practice passed down through generations as part of routine period care hygiene.
Risks of Vaginal Douching
There are a number of adverse health outcomes associated with douching:
- Disrupts Natural Balance: The vagina is self-cleaning and maintains a delicate balance of good bacteria and pH levels. Douching disrupts this balance by flushing out not only harmful bacteria but also the beneficial ones that keep the vagina healthy. This disruption can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and yeast, increasing the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections.
- Increases Infection Risk: Studies have shown that women who douche regularly have a higher risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause chronic pain and infertility. Douching can push bacteria further up into the reproductive tract, facilitating the spread of infections.
- Linked to Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: For people who are pregnant or trying to conceive, douching is particularly risky. Research has linked douching to an increased risk of preterm birth, ectopic pregnancy, and other complications. This is likely due to the disturbance of the natural vaginal environment, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
- Potential Chemical Exposure: Many commercial douches contain fragrances, antiseptics, and other chemicals that can irritate the sensitive vaginal tissues. This irritation can lead to inflammation, discomfort, and an increased susceptibility to infections. Moreover, the long-term effects of exposure to these chemicals are not well understood, raising concerns about their safety.
Expert Recommendations
Health organisations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), advise against douching. They recommend regular bathing and the use of mild soap on the external genital area only, allowing the vagina to maintain its natural cleaning process.
Healthier Alternatives
Instead of douching, consider these practices:
- Regular Hygiene: Wash the external genital area with warm water and mild, unscented soap.
- Cotton Underwear: Wear breathable cotton underwear to reduce moisture buildup.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body naturally flush out toxins.
- Safe Sex Practices: Use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Regular Check-ups: Visit your healthcare provider for regular gynaecological exams and to discuss any concerns about vaginal health.
While the idea of vaginal douching may seem appealing for maintaining cleanliness and preventing odours, the risks far outweigh the perceived benefits.
Maintaining natural vaginal health through proper hygiene and regular medical care is the best approach. If you have concerns about vaginal odour or discharge, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider rather than resorting to douching.
References:
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. "Vaginal Health." ACOG
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)." CDC
- BMC Women's Health. "Douching, pelvic inflammatory disease, and the incidence of sexually transmitted infections." BMC Women's Health
- Journal of Women's Health. "Vaginal Douching and Pregnancy Outcomes." Journal of Women's Health
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "Women’s Health: Risks of Douching." FDA
- Mayo Clinic. "Vaginal Douching: Is it Safe?" Mayo Clinic
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "ACOG’s FAQs on Vaginal Douching." ACOG
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
