The vagina is one of the most sensitive parts of our body, and as such we must take care of it and protect it from external agents that may damage it. Being so delicate, it is very susceptible to certain substances or habits that can be its great enemies. Therefore, we will reveal the most common risks to which you may be exposed and how we can avoid them.

Our biggest enemy: vaginal infections

  • In the vagina different microorganisms coexist in harmony that at certain moments of our life, can be decompensated, giving rise to a vaginal infection.
  • Vaginal infections, also known as vaginitis, are one of the most frequent reasons why women go to the gynecologist.
  • Among the most frequent vaginal diseases we find bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and candidiasis.
  • Some of the common symptoms in this type of infection are manifested by the change in color and smell of vaginal discharge and inflammation, burning or itching, especially in the last two diseases mentioned.
  • Sex without a condom, taking antibiotics or inadequate hygiene can make the vagina the ideal place for the multiplication of bacteria that are harmful to the vaginal flora.

How to prevent infections and take care of the vagina

  1. Especially in intimate hygiene, there are a series of counterproductive habits that we may not think are so aggressive but that are decisive.
  2. Foam baths, scented soaps, deodorants or perfumes expose our vagina to great risks of infections by unbalancing the vaginal flora. The soaps that should be used are those with an acidic or neutral Ph.
  3. Vaginal douches are prohibited since the only thing that is done with them is that the bacteria proliferate freely and the vagina is exposed to different vaginal infections.
  4. Whenever you clean or wash the genital area, do it from front to back and not the other way around, since there are many more bacteria in the rectum that we would be carrying towards the vagina.
  5. The use of panty liners on a daily basis is not advisable since the vulvar area does not perspire correctly. Also when you are on your period, always remember to change the tampon every 4-8 hours and compress frequently.
  6. Do not wear clothes that are too tight and avoid lycra or other types of fabrics that are not 100% cotton for your underwear.
## Sexual practices and partner-related risks — actionable prevention and treatment Sexual activity is one of the most common triggers for vaginal upset. As a gynecologist I see recurrent patterns where misunderstanding or lack of small adjustments leads to repeated symptoms. Below are practical, evidence-based actions you can take immediately. - Understand the role of condoms: - **Use condoms consistently** for penetrative sex, especially if you have a new or multiple partners. Condoms reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as trichomoniasis and protect the balance of vaginal flora by limiting pathogen exposure. - **Example:** A 28-year-old patient developed recurrent trichomoniasis after switching partners without barrier protection. After treating both partners and adopting condom use for three months, she had no recurrence. - Manage oral and digital sex safely: - Avoid oral-genital contact if either partner has active cold sores, thrush, or a recent antibiotic use that could shift oral flora. - Wash hands and trim nails before digital penetration; artificial nails can introduce bacteria and tiny lacerations. - When to treat both partners: - For infections transmissible by sex (trichomoniasis, some cases of BV associated with partner reinfection, certain STIs), **both partners should be evaluated and treated simultaneously** where appropriate. - **Practical step:** If you are treated for trichomoniasis, your partner needs metronidazole too; otherwise reinfection is likely. - Lubricants and sexual aids: - Use water-based or silicone-based lubricants. Avoid oil-based products with latex condoms. - **Avoid irritant additives:** Steer clear of lubricants with warming, cooling, or numbing agents if you have recurrent sensitivity. These additives can disrupt mucosa and microbiota. - **Real example:** A patient with intermittent burning due to a "tingling" lubricant switched to a plain water-based lubricant and symptoms resolved within days. - Sex after antibiotics or during infection: - If you have been prescribed antibiotics or are being treated for an active vaginitis, **delay penetrative sex** until treatment is complete and symptoms resolved. Antibiotics increase the risk of yeast overgrowth and other imbalances. - Sexual practices that increase risk: - Frequent change of sexual positions without hygiene between activities (for example, moving from anal to vaginal sex) increases risk of introducing fecal bacteria. **Always change condoms and clean between activities.** - Use of sex toys: **clean thoroughly** after each use with soap and water or follow manufacturer instructions; do not share toys or cover them with a new condom between users or between vaginal/anal use. Actionable partner conversation starters: - "If I’m being treated for X, can you get evaluated too so we avoid reinfection?" - "Can we use condoms for the next month while I finish treatment and my vagina heals?" ## Medications, medical procedures, and daily products — what truly harms the vagina and what to do Medical interventions and some everyday products can unintentionally damage the vaginal ecosystem. This section explains which items are most often problematic and offers clear mitigation strategies. - Antibiotics: - Broad-spectrum antibiotics (amoxicillin, fluoroquinolones, etc.) kill protective lactobacilli as well as pathogens, often leading to **vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)** or bacterial vaginosis. - **Action:** If you need antibiotics, consider discussing prophylactic measures with your clinician: - Watch for symptoms and contact your provider early. - For recurrent yeast infections, some patients benefit from a short preventative antifungal during antibiotic courses — discuss risks and benefits with your gynecologist. - **Real example:** A woman on a 10-day course of antibiotics for sinusitis developed vulvar itching on day 7. Early antifungal treatment on day 8 resolved symptoms and prevented a more severe infection. - Topical steroids and irritant creams: - Overuse of topical corticosteroids for vulvar dermatitis without specialist guidance can thin vulvar skin and mask infections. Use only as prescribed. - Avoid applying generic "itch creams" around the vulva without evaluation. - Hormonal changes (contraception, menopause): - **Low estrogen states** (postpartum, breastfeeding, perimenopause/menopause, some GnRH therapies) reduce vaginal mucosal thickness and lubrication, increasing risk of microtrauma and infection. - **Action:** For symptomatic vaginal dryness, consider: - Non-hormonal lubricants and moisturizers (regular use). - Local low-dose vaginal estrogen (cream, tablet, or ring) for perimenopausal/menopausal women after discussion of risks and benefits. - Real example: A 52-year-old with recurrent UTIs and dyspareunia benefited from a topical estrogen ring, reducing symptoms and lowering infection frequency. - Hygiene products to avoid: - **Scented soaps, bubble baths, deodorant sprays, panty liners with fragrances** — these often contain surfactants and fragrances that disturb pH or irritate mucosa. - **Vaginal douching**: unequivocally discouraged — it washes away beneficial bacteria and increases the risk of infection and adverse reproductive outcomes. - **Actionable swap:** Use a mild, pH-balanced intimate wash or plain water only. For skin at the vulva, choose products labeled pH 3.8–4.5 or unscented gentle cleansers from trustworthy sources (see [shop](/shop) for vetted product types). - Clothing and moisture: - Tight, non-breathable fabrics trap heat and moisture — an ideal growth medium for yeast and anaerobic bacteria. - **Action:** Choose cotton underwear, change out of wet swimwear quickly, and avoid sitting in sweaty gym clothes for prolonged periods. - **Practical tip:** Keep an extra pair of underwear or shorts in your gym bag to change immediately after workouts. - Cosmetic procedures and piercings: - Pubic hair removal (shaving, waxing, laser) can cause microtrauma, folliculitis, and introduction of bacteria. - **Actionable guidance:** - After hair removal, avoid sexual activity for 24–48 hours to allow skin to heal. - Use clean equipment or professional waxing services; avoid shared razors. - If you develop pustules or persistent irritation after a procedure, seek medical attention early. - Pelvic exams, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and surgical interventions: - IUDs are safe for most women but can be associated with an initial increased risk of pelvic infection in the first 20 days if an STI is introduced at insertion. - **Action:** Screen for STIs when clinically indicated before insertion; practice safer sex to reduce risk after insertion. - After surgeries, follow wound care instructions and report any unusual discharge or fever promptly. Practical, evidence-based prevention checklist: - Use condoms with new partners. - Avoid douching and scented products. - Change tampon/pad every 4–8 hours. - Prefer cotton underwear; change after exercise. - Report recurrent symptoms to a clinician — don't self-treat repeatedly without evaluation. - Consider local estrogen if symptomatic low estrogen is suspected. For deeper reading on associated symptoms and diagnostic approaches, see our [related topic](/blog). ## When to see your gynecologist — clear red flags and what to expect Knowing when to seek professional help avoids complications and ensures correct treatment. - Seek urgent care if you have: - Fever >38°C (100.4°F) plus pelvic pain. - Heavy bleeding or blood with offensive odor. - Severe or worsening vulvar pain or swelling that prevents walking or urination. - Suspected foreign body (forgotten tampon) or signs of toxic shock syndrome (high fever, rash, fainting). - See your gynecologist promptly (within days) if you have: - New, persistent, or recurrent abnormal vaginal discharge (change in color, odor, or quantity). - Pruritus (itching) or burning that does not respond to a single course of over-the-counter antifungal if previously diagnosed. - Painful intercourse (dyspareunia) or urinary symptoms that co-exist with vaginal symptoms. - What to expect at the visit: - A thorough history (sexual, menstrual, hygiene, medication). - Speculum exam and collection of swabs for microscopy, culture, or PCR as indicated. - Targeted treatment — for example, metronidazole for BV or trichomoniasis, fluconazole for yeast — and partner treatment when needed. - Follow-up plan — recurrence often needs an extended approach (e.g., suppressive therapy for recurrent candidiasis or partner management for recurrent BV). Real clinic example: - A 35-year-old with three episodes of BV in six months was counseled on partner hygiene, condom use, and a 6-month suppressive metronidazole gel regimen combined with periodic lactobacillus-promoting behaviors. Recurrences decreased significantly after behavioral changes and partner testing. ## FAQ ### What exactly disturbs the vaginal pH and why does that matter? The healthy vagina has an acidic pH (approximately 3.8–4.5), primarily maintained by lactobacilli that produce lactic acid. This acidity inhibits overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria and yeasts. Disturbances that raise pH (less acidic) include semen (temporary), douching, certain soaps, antibiotics, and menstrual blood. When pH rises, anaerobic bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis and other pathogens can overgrow, leading to abnormal discharge, odor, and inflammation. Restoring or preserving pH through gentle hygiene, avoiding douching, and appropriate medical treatment when infections occur is key. ### Are probiotics helpful for preventing vaginal infections? Some evidence supports the use of specific probiotic strains (oral or vaginal lactobacilli) as adjuncts to standard therapy, particularly for preventing recurrence of bacterial vaginosis. Probiotics are not a replacement for prescribed antimicrobial therapy when infection is present. If considering probiotics: - Choose products with documented strains (e.g., Lactobacillus crispatus, L. rhamnosus) used in clinical studies. - Use them as an adjunct after discussing with your gynecologist. - Practical example: A patient with recurrent BV used a daily oral probiotic as part of an overall plan (hygiene, condom use, suppressive topical therapy) and reported fewer recurrences over a year. ### Can I use natural or DIY products like yogurt, apple cider vinegar, or essential oils to treat infections? No. DIY remedies risk chemical irritation, allergic reaction, or further microbiome imbalance. For example, inserting yogurt can introduce other microbes and change pH unpredictably; essential oils are often irritating. Apple cider vinegar is acidic but can burn mucosa and is not a safe treatment. Use evidence-based treatments prescribed by a clinician. If you prefer "natural" options, discuss safe, regulated products such as medical-grade probiotics or topical non-hormonal moisturizers recommended by a clinician. ### What should I do if I have recurrent yeast infections? Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is defined as four or more episodes per year. Management is multi-step: - Confirm diagnosis with clinic testing — not all recurrent "yeast" symptoms are candidiasis. - Treat the acute episode with appropriate antifungals (oral fluconazole or topical azoles). - Discuss a suppressive regimen (e.g., oral fluconazole weekly for several months) if infections recur. - Evaluate for predisposing factors: uncontrolled diabetes, antibiotic use, corticosteroid use, immunosuppression, sexual practices, or intra-vaginal products. - Practical advice: Keep vulvar skin dry, use cotton underwear, avoid irritant soaps, and avoid daily panty liners unless needed. ### Is it ever necessary to stop certain contraceptives because they harm the vagina? Most contraceptives are safe for vaginal health. However: - Some women notice increased vaginal discharge or changes with combined hormonal contraceptives — these are often benign but should be evaluated if bothersome. - Progestin-only methods can lead to vaginal dryness in some users; if dryness causes pain, consider local lubricants, moisturizers, or an alternative method. - Intrauterine devices do not cause recurrent BV or yeast infections in most women, but the risk of infection is slightly increased in the first few weeks after insertion if STI is present. Always discuss contraceptive changes with your gynecologist, balancing contraception needs and symptom management. --- If you'd like product recommendations (gentle cleansers, pH-balanced washes, lubricants or cotton underwear options) tailored to your needs, see our curated selections at [shop](/shop), or read more in our [related topic](/blog) posts on recurrent vaginitis and pelvic health.