Given the extremely poor (and that's being kind) track record of genital health information provided by American schools, especially when that information pertains to people with vaginas, it's about time we had a talk about vaginal health.
But, reader, look, I know you may be sitting there and thinking, "Gross, why do we have to take about vaginal health?" but it is important because lack of knowledge is dangerous. I went to a Catholic high school where our "health" class was looking at diagrams of internal organs and the reproductive system while simultaneously being told that you shouldn't have sex before marriage. There was no information about birth control, how to put on a condom, information about sexual abuse, or anything that has been remotely useful in my adult life. Everything I know about my vagina has come from talking to friends and looking things up online. Not knowing about the proper ph balance, discharge colors (along with the need for discharge), and how to clean your vagina can contribute to poor overall health. So yeah, we've gotta talk about it.
Before talking about vaginal health, it's important to clarify that the vagina is the internal organ; what you're looking at on the outside is the vulva--this is information my mom has repeated to me so many times that I will never be able to forget it. Here are some good things to know about your vagina, your vulva, and how to keep yourself healthy:
Your vagina is never going to smell like flowers:
Every vagina has a different smell and that's totally fine and healthy. A really unpleasant smell means that something is wrong with your body and you should get that checked out. Douching ruins your vaginal pH and, while it may "mask" the smell, it also hides whatever is making your vagina unhealthy. x
Also, anyone who insults your vagina because it doesn't smell like goddamn cookies and cream can go take a hike.
Pee after sex:
When you're having penetrative sex, even if you're using a condom, you're introducing bacteria to your vagina. People with vaginas have short urethras which means bacteria can get inside quickly and cause lots of uncomfortable and painful side effects (such as UTIs which anyone who has had one will tell you is THE WORST.) If you pee after sex you clear some of this bacteria out which definitely helps you in the long run. x
Cotton underwear is your vagina's best friend:
I know, cotton underwear isn't always the cutest or what makes you feel the sexiest. Cotton will take in the moisture surrounding your vagina and vulva and allow it to feel freer. Also, I've been told that sleeping sans underwear is the best way to go to give your vagina some unconstrained time. x
Do your kegels:
If kegels are good enough for Samantha Jones they're good enough for you. If you don't know how to do kegels this is how I've always been told: When peeing try and stop peeing in the middle. Clenching that muscle is how to do your kegels. They're super easy to do, you can do it pretty much anywhere, and it has been shown that kegels help your bladder stay strong and can help you have better orgasms. x
and last but not least...
Go to your gyno for an exam:
I know, no one wants to get their annual exam. It's awkward, you've gotta take off all your clothes, you always end up waiting for a while, and having someone's fingers poking around our vagina in a non-sexual manner is a little weird. But it is so SO important for your health. And don't be afraid to tell your gyno about your sex life and/or any questions or concerns you have. You've got doctor-patient confidentiality and they're there to help you. x
Obviously, this is just the tip of the vaginal health iceberg, I highly recommend clicking on the "x's" following items in the list to go to the sources and learn even more about what you can be doing to help your vagina out.
