Let’s be honest—When it comes to vaginal or feminine health, we all have read something that made us feel like, “Wait, is that even true?”
If you have ever felt this, you are not alone. With daily advancements and increasing research, there are still many misconceptions floating all over the internet about vaginal health.
It is time to take control over our bodies and health and bust any myths we find about vaginal health or hygiene.
Time To Reveal the Truth: Busting Myths on Vaginal Health.
This blog contains the top 08 vaginal myths and the truth behind them. Let’s get started and clear the fog.
Myth # 01: Scented Products Can Block Vaginal Odour
It is believed that heavily fragranced products can mask the natural odour of the vagina.
Truth
The truth is that the vagina is an open organ and a hub of healthy bacteria. It has its own natural scent, which is normal and healthy. Products like scented moisturisers, powders or perfumes contain harsh chemicals that disrupt the pH of the vagina and cause long-term health effects like vaginal dryness or irritation. These products may mask the natural odour for a short time but are not suitable for your intimate health.
Myth # 02: Vaginal Itching or Burning Means There is Infection
Vaginal itching and burning are only thought to be the signs of vaginal infection.
Truth
Itching and burning down there are not just because of vaginal yeast infection. Urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases, hormonal imbalances and specific medication can also cause discomfort. Learn more if you want to know how to stop itching down there immediately. Talk to your doctor right away if you experience severe burning or itching in your vaginal area.
Myth # 03: Discharge Comes Out of Unhealthy Vagina.
It is believed that vaginal discharge is a sign that your vaginal health is compromised.
Truth
This is baseless. Your vagina is a self-cleaning organ. The glands inside your vagina secrete fluids that cleanse the internal vaginal lining and maintain the flora— all that is a natural process. Though discharge is normal and neutral and a sign of a healthy vagina, unusual discharge shows something is wrong, and you need to discuss it with your doctor.
Myth # 04: Frequent Sex Loosens The Vaginal Canal
Frequent sexual intercourse is thought to loosen vaginal tissues and affect relations in later stages.
Truth
Not true at all! Your vagina is a forgiving organ. When you are aroused, it gets wet, and the walls expand to promote the opposite organ. After penetration, the walls return to their place and are not stretched permanently.
Myth#05: Cleaning the Vagina Internally is Necessary
Vaginas are not clean until we douche them.
Truth
This is baseless. Just like your gut, the vagina also cleans itself independently. The healthy bacteria maintain vaginal pH, and internal glands produce secretions that clean the internal walls and come out in the form of discharge. If you douche your vagina, it may hurt the normal flora and disrupt its health.
Myth# 06: Pain During Sex is Normal
With penetration, pain is expected, and it is totally normal.
Truth
Yes, a mild pain when you have sex for the first few times is normal because your vagina is getting used to it. But severe pain you may feel before, during or after the sex is not normal. Especially deep pain during thrusts or in particular positions is a sign that your vaginal health is compromised, and you need to talk to your doctor—they may help you with exploring advance women’s health solutions like Empower RF treatment in Bradford.
Myth # 07: Hymen Breaks Only with Penetrative Sex
There is a layer at the opening of the vagina, which breaks when you have sex for the first time, causing bleeding.
Truth
The hymen is a thin and elastic tissue layer at the opening of the vagina. Some women are born without a hymen, and some break it while inserting a tampon or even during intense physical workouts. In some cases, it does not even break during sex. So, it’s just a myth that women should always bleed during their first time.
Myth # 08: Yeast Infections Resolve on their Own.
Vaginal yeast infections are not worth a trip to your gynaecologist, and they will resolve on their own.
Truth
No, even if your first infection resolved independently without any medications or doctor’s consultation, it does not mean it will resolve this time in the same way. Infections are worth your doctor’s attention. No matter how mild the symptoms are, talk to your doctor right away so they can find the underlying cause and prescribe medications to stop their recurrence.
Bottomline
The vagina is an incredibly forgiving organ; it cleans itself, expands to accommodate during sex and lets you stay attached to your femininity. Your responsibility is to take care of its health and not believe everything you find floating around. Whenever you find such information, try to research it and never mindlessly follow each and every intimate health tip.
