You are harming yourself while trying to be clean: Here are the most common hygiene mistakes

Obstetrics and Gynaecology Specialist Prof. Dr. İbrahim Alanbay said that vaginal infections (vaginitis) are a very common health problem that affects women's health.

Prof. Dr. Alanbay, “The most important thing we need to know about vaginitis is that everyone has a vaginal microbiota (microflora), that is, their own bacterial environment. In healthy reproductive age, the vast majority of the vaginal microbiota consists of bacteria called lactobacilli. The ratio of the types in this group of 5 bacteria can change frequently.

This environment provides protection against opportunistic bacteria, viruses, parasitic infections and some harmful environmental factors. The continuation of the acidic environment of the vagina depends on these and is essential for this protection. Therefore, lactobacilli provide the first protective defense system. They prevent other bacteria from settling in the vagina.

They provide the acidic environment of the vagina. This normal vaginal bacterial flora, acid vaginal pH and normal vaginal discharge provide a protective mechanism against infections. If there is a disruption in this system, pathogenic microorganisms settle in the vagina. Genital hygiene is the main factor in the regular operation of this system,” he said.

'SOAPS AND SHOWER GELS CAN CAUSE IRRITATION'

Prof. Dr. Alanbay, who stated that there are many wrong practices in women's hygiene and genital care, said, “The first of these is the need for excessive washing, vaginal douche and using soap, shower gel, peeling, deodorant and over-the-counter preparations. However, washing too often can disrupt the vulvar and perineal skin microenvironments, cause irritation and worsen existing conditions.

Soaps, body washes, scrubs, bubble baths, deodorants, baby wipes, and douches may contain skin irritants. Some over-the-counter preparations, such as baby or diaper creams, herbal creams (tea tree oil, aloe vera), and thrush treatments, may aggravate allergies or make existing symptoms worse.

Additionally, vaginal douching may alter the normal vaginal microbiome and predispose women to infections, including bacterial vaginosis, infections from intestinal pathogens, and sexually transmitted infections.

"It is important to note that women may be more inclined to douche themselves to reduce vaginal odor and irritation due to bacterial vaginosis or in response to other symptoms such as menstruation, which can lead to a vicious cycle. In contrast, routine washing of the vulva once a day is desirable to prevent the accumulation of vaginal discharge, sweat, urine, and to prevent fecal contamination and body odor," he said.

'TIGHT TROUSERS AND UNDERWEAR MAY AFFECT VAGINAL FLORA'

Prof. Dr. Alanbey, who stated that wearing tight clothing can also affect genital health, said, “The concept that itching and urogenital problems in women are associated with tight clothing has been reported in many studies. This situation is especially important in the summer months. Tight clothing prevents sweating and increases body temperature, encouraging the proliferation of pathogens.

There has been an increase in the availability of hygiene products for cleansing and odour control, but some of these can alter the pH in the vulva and vagina and have effects on the physiological bacterial species needed to protect against infection. Therefore, the mainstay of vulvar cleansing is to choose a mild detergent that will maintain the physiological pH of the skin, which is 4.2-5.6,” he said.

'STAY AWAY FROM PRODUCTS THAT DISTURB THE PH BALANCE IN THE BODY'

Prof. Dr. Alanbey, who said that some ingredients of genital hygiene products sold without a prescription may also contain allergens, said, “For example, Peru balsam in scented soaps and propylene glycol in lubricants and materials used in menstrual pads may also be allergens. These factors can mediate genital contact dermatitis, which can make existing vulvar symptoms even more persistent.

“Reusable menstrual products such as menstrual underwear and menstrual cups are potential alternatives to menstrual pads. However, menstrual underwear may require more effort and time to wash and dry. Additionally, women may need to practice and use menstrual cups regularly to become comfortable using them. Studies on the vaginal microbiome have shown that inadequate intake of micronutrients such as vitamins A, C, D, E, carotene, folate, and calcium may increase the risk of vaginitis,” she said.

Explaining the effects of the diet, Prof. Dr. Alanbey said, “Carbohydrates with a high glycemic index have also been shown to increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis-related vaginitis, a condition generally associated with low amounts of Lactobacillus species in women. In a study conducted on women regarding fats, it was found that high dietary fat intake was also associated with an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis. Stress also affects vaginal health. Chronic stress stimulates the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, encouraging the release of cortisol from the adrenal gland. It is assumed that stress-related vaginal dysbiosis is caused by increased cortisol levels, which suppress immune activity and lead to a loss of lactobacillus dominance. In addition, studies on the effects of smoking on the vaginal microbiome have revealed that the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis is increased in smokers. It is also known that smoking has anti-estrogenic effects and that this may negatively affect the growth of lactobacillus in the vagina.”