How Often Do You Douche?

Douche usually refers to vaginal irrigation, the rinsing of the vagina, but it can also refer to the rinsing of any body cavity. A douche bag is a piece of equipment for douching—a bag for holding the fluid used in douching. A vaginal douche forces water or other solutions into the vaginal cavity.For most women, douching helps them feel fresher, get rid of unpleasant odours, wash away menstrual blood after their period, avoid getting sexually transmitted diseases, and prevent a pregnancy after intercourse. 

However, experts say douching is not effective for any of these purposes but warn that it can increase the risk of infections, pregnancy complications, and other health problems.

It is important to note that the risks associated with douching far outweigh the benefits. 

Douching upsets the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina (called vaginal flora). These changes make the environment more favourable for the growth of bacteria that cause infection. 

Studies have found that women who stopped douching were less likely to have bacterial vaginosis. Having bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of preterm labour and endometriosis.

Also, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries. Research has found that women who douche have a 73 per cent higher risk of getting PID.

Interestingly, the vagina cleans itself. It regularly flushes out dead cells and maintains a delicate acidic balance; whereas, douching can upset this balance and increase the risk of irritation. It can also force bacteria into the fallopian tubes.

Though, you can wash outside (the vulva) with warm water but avoid using scented soaps. Some women find that using any soap at all can be irritating.

It is wisdom to consult a medical expert when you start itching outside or inside; when you notice any irritation or soreness; burning sensation when you urinate; increased or unusual discharge; swelling of the labia; bumps or sores outside or inside; bleeding after sex or between periods; painful intercourse; unpleasant odour; or abdominal pain.

According to health experts, you should avoid douching. Having some vaginal odour is normal. The acidity of the vagina will naturally control bacteria, and simply washing the vagina with warm water and mild soap is enough to keep clean.