It is natural for women to be fastidious about their hygiene and many regard vaginal douching as part of female cleanliness. Historically douching was regarded as therapeutic, reducing the likelihood of infections in the pelvis, and some, inappropriately, assumed it had a role in contraception. Many chemists have sold perfumed solutions designed for the purpose.

frequent douching probably does more harm than good. The vagina is capable of keeping itself clean. The vaginal fluid is rich in protective bacteria (Q 22.1) and excessive douching may reduce their numbers significantly. Chemicals in the douching fluid and the nozzle or tube may cause trauma and irritation. Douching may increase rather than decrease vaginal discharge. It may be reasonable to undertake douching once each month after a period. Daily washing the vulva, perineum (Figure 2.2) and anal area, perhaps with the benefit of a bidet, can be recommended.

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Vaginal Douching

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