GENITAL HYGEINE CARE PART 1

 

What’s the difference between the vagina and vulva, I am confused?

You must get to know your vulva and vagina, up close and personal. First – let’s be clear what we are talking about regarding the “vagina”.  When women are talking about their “vagina” they are mistakably including the vulva which is really the labia majora and labia minora.  Women lump the word “vagina” to mean anything down south to describe it.  Medically speaking the vagina is only the inside and the outside is the vulva-labia majora and minora. Most women call all of this the “vagina” and don’t separate the 2 areas.  The “vagina” actually includes the vulva, labia-majora (outer lips) and labia minora (inner lips), the opening to the vagina is called the introitus, the inner vagina, the urethra (small opening leading to the bladder), the clitoris and the protective hood of the clitoris. The inside of the vagina, where tampons go, is a temperamental and ultra-sensitive area. 50% of women wonder if their vagina is normal looking. My first and foremost advice to women is to get to know your lady parts, know what your “normal” is so you will know when a potential problem arises.  If you have not done so already, pull out the mirror and get to know your vagina, your vaginal health depends on it. Every woman needs to take a “vagie” to really know this lady part intimately.

What do you mean when it’s said,  the vagina is “self-cleaning”?

The vagina is equipped with over thirty organisms that help the pH balanced and free of infections. These organisms produce secretions (discharge) to naturally clean the vagina, much like the mouth does with saliva and the eyes do with tears. The cervical glands also contribute to the vaginal secretions (discharge). Depending on the time of month, vaginal discharge will change in consistency, texture, and smell. These organisms are responsible for keeping the vagina clean and free of harmful infections.

 

Can you explain what’s “normal” in terms of vaginal odor and secretions?

Normal discharge is simply a fluid that carries away dead cells and bacteria, protecting the vagina from infection. During ovulation, the slippery clear discharge helps propel the swimming sperm eager to get into the uterus so the egg can be fertilized in the fallopian tube. This healthy discharge will appear clear to milky in color. Normal vaginal discharge can also be described as white, thin and odorless. 

A couple days after your period the discharge will appear white and thick. Around Day 14, you may notice a clear, slippery, odorless discharge the consistency of egg whites. This is also completely normal, and it suggests ovulation. During puberty a milky discharge (leucorrhea) is produced. This naturally occurring discharge protects the stability of the vagina. Right before your period the white discharge will become thicker. 

My mom always told me to douche after my period, it that safe to do?

Douching is a premade cleaning mixture that comes in a plastic bottle that can be squirted high up into the vagina. This internal vaginal cleaning is not a recommended routine to keep the vagina smelling fresh and clean. The active cleaning ingredients used in most douches can upset the healthy vaginal discharge and pH balance and create a nasty yeast or bacterial infection.

I got a horrible yeast infection after taking a bubble bath that reminded me of Hawaii, could that have been the cause?

All of us vagina owners know how disconcerting it can be to encounter a new smell down south, so the key is to know what your particular “normal” smells like. Since the vagina is very sensitive to changes in your daily environment, anything that affects its pH balance will also affect the smell and consistency of discharge. Factors that affect this balance include:

• Antibiotic use
• Douching
• Spermicides
• New sexual partners
• Frequency of sexual intercourse
• Sex toys
• Hormonal imbalances such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause
• Jacuzzi jets aimed anywhere near the vagina
• Diet, stress, exercise, and weather changes

These factors may not only cause a strange new odor, they also may create other uncomfortable symptoms such as: 

• Vulvar itching, burning, redness, and swelling
• Yellow or gray discharge that may vary in thickness and consistency

A strong, foul, fishy vaginal odor with a thin, grayish-white discharge is a classic symptom of bacterial infections, but it can also be a result of other types of organisms (infections) such as Candidiasis, Bacterial Vaginosis/Gardnerella, Trichomoniasis, Chlamydia and Gonorrhea.

How do I know if it’s my gifted bubble bath that smells like Hawaii or an infection that’s giving me these nasty symptoms?

If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is important that you see your healthcare provider. She can take a series of vaginal cultures in order to determine what organism is involved. Many women will invariably self-diagnose vaginal discharge and itching as a common yeast infection. I know it seems much easier to head to the drug store for an over-the-counter medication, but, unfortunately, you may only make your symptoms worse and delay a proper diagnosis and treatment. Vaginal cultures can confirm what organism is causing your disruptive symptoms in order for the best treatment to be prescribed. Even if you tend towards more “natural” remedies, please, before you start packing yogurt into your vagina, take a trip to your healthcare provider to check things out properly.

How do we safely clean the vulva area?  

The vulva includes the labia-majora (outer lips) and labia minora (inner lips), the opening to the vagina which is called the introitus, the urethra (small opening leading to the bladder), the clitoris and the protective hood of the clitoris. This entire area needs to be cleaned, hydrated and moisturized daily for properly daily cleaning. Creating a feminine hygiene routine will prevent dryness of the skin which helps avoid unwanted acne, irritation and infection.  

                              

Using the wrong types of soap can cause irritation, dryness and bad odor. Avoid soaps which are heavily perfumed, contain too many unnatural ingredients, or have antibacterial properties which upset the natural balance of your body.

Do I need to use soap on the vulva area? 

 Ideally, you want to use pH balanced, clean, toxic-free, dermatologically and gynecologically approved formulations made to protect the delicate skin of the vulva from harmful bacteria, dryness, itching, irritation, infection, breakouts, and other causes of premature aging.  There are vagina friendly formulations made especially for the vulva. Do our research and find products made especially for your Lady Parts.

Can I use scented soaps to clean my vulva?

Since the vulva is very sensitive to changes in your daily environment, anything that affects its pH balance will also affect the smell and consistency of discharge.

 Scented soaps, cleaners and feminine intimate grooming products can actually upset the normal pH balance of the vagina, causing infections and skin irritation. Disrupting the pH balance can cause a yeast or bacterial infection which creates uncomfortable symptoms including itching, burning, redness, swelling, and foul vaginal discharge.

 

When we clean the vulva do we have to go front to back?

 

Ensuring you do not bring harmful bacteria from the anus towards the vulva and vagina is important while cleaning this sensitive area.

How do I moisturize my vulva? 

The skin of the vulva is prone to dryness if not taken care of properly. If you don’t moisturize your vulva the skin will become dry which can cause irritation, itching, burning and pain.  Feminine hygiene products including fragrant soaps, bubble bath liquids, sanitary wipes, laundry detergent and sexual lubricants are some of the products that lead to vaginal dryness. Extra virgin coconut oil (EVCO) in a warm bath helps naturally moisturizes the vulva helps prevent the disruptive symptoms caused by vaginal dryness. I recommended taking baths with EVCO nightly to prevent dryness and premature aging of the vulva.

When I am on my period is there a different cleaning routine I need to follow? 

Normal blood flow requires 3-6 pads or tampons per day.  The average woman only bleeds about 3 ounces during an entire period.  Pads, tampons, menstrual cups and Thinx-like underwear can all be used to collect blood during a period. Tampons and pads should be changed every 4 to 8 hours. During a period, it’s especially important to have a daily hygiene routine due to additional bacteria introduced into this area. Cleaning and moisturizing the vulva skin helps prevent infections and dryness.

 

What other tips do you have about keeping the vagina and vulva healthy? 

 

I like to think the vulva should have the same feminine hygiene ritual as we do for our face. It needs to be cleaned, hydrated and moisturized with the same love and attention. Using vulva and vagina-friendly products keep the skin of the vulva hydrated, moisturized, and cleansed properly.

 

Can I get acne on my vulva? 

 

Vulva acne, also known as pimples, are more common than people think!

 

The vulva has sweat glands and hair follicles that are prone to dirt buildup and getting clogged just like any other of the body with hair and sweat.  Between urine, sweat and being so close to the anus cleaning the vulva regularly is critical to prevent dirty bacterial buildup in clogged skin pours which could lead to acne.

 

Feminine hygiene routines such as shaving, waxing or lasering exposes the hair follicles that can be prone to getting infected or blocked causing acne, black heads and in groin hairs.

 

Vigorous exercise routines such as cycling and running, tight clothing, obesity, hormonal changes, Diabetics and sitting for long periods of time can increase the likelihood of vulva, groin, inner thigh and buttock acne.

 

 

What’s the difference between vulva acne and folliculitis? 

 

Acne is common on the vulva or areas near the external vulva genitalia including the inner thighs where there is more pressure applied to this delicate and sensitive part of the body. Acne, or pimples, of this area looks like acne occurring on the face.

 

Folliculitis is a bacterial or fungal infection of a hair follicle that causes inflammation, redness and infection of a hair follicle. With folliculitis, since it involves the hair follicle there is always a hair involved whereas with acne there is not. Folliculitis can turn into a skin boil.  Anywhere on the body where that are hair follicles, you are at risk of folliculitis.  

 

Can I get razor burn on my vulva? 

Razor burn is a byproduct of shaving the skin of the vulva which may include itching, a rash and red bump. It occurs when the razor blade interacts with the skin and hair of this delicate area. 

If you use the razor, laser or wax your pubic hair make sure the skin is always kept clean before and after removing the hair.  If you loofah the skin after any kind of hair removal, this helps prevent acne and in-groin hairs during the regrowth process. Antibacterial soaps and lotions are also helpful in protecting this sensitive area against acne and rashes.  

If you use a razor make sure you have a clean razor-blade, use shaving gel or cream with warm water, apply gentle pressure and use after skin cream to keep the skin hydrated and clean. Old razor blades carry unwanted bacteria that can cause razor burns, bumps, acne and other irritations to the skin and hair follicles of the vulva.  Avoid alcohol containing products.  Any female tool that is used on your body daily needs to be cleaned regularly.  The bathroom can be a reservoir for bacteria so it is absolutely necessary to clean or replace bathroom items weekly. Lastly, never be in a rush when you have to shave the pubic hair area!

What causes blisters and bumps on my vulva?

Bumps and rashes are other forms of skin irritation that can occur on the vulva. Certain STI’s including genital Herpes starts as a raised painful blister-like bump on the vulva whereas Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes raised painless white bumps.

 

Molluscum contagiosum is transmitted through skin to skin contact and from sharing infected towels/clothing and causes raised painless bump.

 

Can you actually get dermatitis of the vulva?

Vulvar dermatitis is a term used to describe dry, painful or irritated skin. It’s a generalized term that doesn’t address the cause but describes the condition. Vulvar dermatitis can be caused by feminine hygiene products-fragrant soaps, bubble bath liquids, laundry detergents, fabric softeners, sanitary wipes, pads, sexual lubricants, nylon undergarments and latex products-condoms and diaphragms.

Treating vulvar dermatitis begins by identifying and removing the cause. Using anti-itch medication and steroid cream helps the symptoms and keeping the vulvar moisturized is, also, soothing to the skin.

 

Can I have vulva eczema?

Eczema causes an inflammatory change leading to red and sore areas on the skin including the vulva. These changes cause the skin to itch.

Using an oral anti-histamine, topical anti-itch cream, moisturizer, cool compresses and taking a warm bath are helpful. It’s hard to do but avoid scratching and keep the vulva cool and not restrictive in clothing or undergarment. Commando may be the helpful when the itching is excessive or unbearable. 

Does Psoriasis go to the vulva?

Yes! Psoriasis can appear bright red, smooth and shiny on the vulva. For some people it may be the only place it appears. Regardless of where psoriasis is located on the body, persistent itchy skin is one of the most common disruptive symptoms.  Skin rashes with scaly patches cause intense itching even when located on the vulva. Psoriasis is not a STI and you can’t spread it to a partner.

Keeping the skin moisturized and well-ventilated is important. Anti-itch creams, avoiding stress and not scratching are also useful strategies to prevent itching.

Can vaginal acne ever be triggered by sex? 

 

Sex can trigger acne and rashes of the vulva if there is any skin trauma disrupting the skin. Vaginal dryness during intimacy can also cause a vulva rash and irritation.

 

How do I treat vaginal acne?

Avoiding what is causing the vulva acne is your best bet in treating it.

If you use the razor, laser or wax your pubic hair make sure the skin is always kept clean before and after removing the hair.  It’s helpful to shave in the direction of the hair growth and using an electric razor is also an option. If you loofah the skin after any kind of hair removal this helps prevent acne and in-groin hairs during the regrowth process. Antibacterial soaps and lotions are also helpful in protecting this delicate area against acne and rashes.

Any female tool that is used on your body daily needs to be cleaned regularly.  The bathroom can be a reservoir for bacteria, so it is absolutely necessary to clean or replace bathroom items weekly.

Washing your hands before touching any female related body parts or beauty tools, in addition, to keeping the tools clean and replacing them appropriately, is your best bet to keeping your skin “down south” looking healthy, fresh and free of acne!

If vulva acne does not improve with these strategies, then using an anti-acne cream or exfoliate can be safely used on the vulva.

 

 

 

Are there any home remedies to get relief from painful skin in their genital area? 

 A cold compress or taking a warm sitz bath with extra virgin coconut oil may relieve vulva swelling, pain, irritation or itching.

Keeping the vulva clean with an intimate vaginal wash and preventing dryness of the skin will help avoid unwanted hygiene obstacles including acne.   

Women need to take care of their vulva and vagina with the same feminine ritual as they do with their face.

If I have an itch does that always mean I have a yeast infection? 

 

Of all the infections that can affect the vulva, a yeast infection is the most common. It’s estimated that 75% of women will experience a yeast infection in their lifetime.  But just because you have itching of the vulva doesn’t necessarily mean you have a yeast infection. The vulva can be delicate and temperamental, often affected by everyday routines including diet, medications, stress, fragranced body and laundry soaps, douching and sex, especially if you haven’t had adequate foreplay. Anything that disrupts the ph balance makes the vulva and vagina a not so happy place.

 

Common irritants you may or may not realize can cause a yeast infection:

• Fragrant soaps, bubble bath liquids, bath salts, talcum powder
• Detergents, fabric softeners and dryer sheets
• Sanitary wipes and pads
• Warming gels and scented lubricants
• Nylon underwear or bathing suits
• Rubber products such as diaphragms and condoms
• Saliva or semen 
• Spermicides such as foams, creams and jellies
• Feminine hygiene sprays, tampons or deodorant pads
• Creams or ointments applied to the vulva

 

Caffeine and alcohol can also be added to the list of offensive culprits. 

How do I know if I have a irritation caused by a feminine hygiene products? 

 

Symptoms of a vulva irritation caused by feminine hygiene products and yeast infection are similar. Typical symptoms of both conditions include an inflamed vulva and vagina with itching, burning, redness and swelling.  There may or may not be an obvious vaginal discharge which can appear as thick or lumpy white and cottage cheese-like in consistency.  You may even notice a vaginal odor as well.  When in doubt it’s best to see your health care provider to see what you have baking.  A simple vaginal culture can identify this infection.

 

What’s the purpose of pubic hair?

The best kept secret about a women’s body is why we actually have pubic hair.  No one really knows the answer to this question.  The suspected theories, some medical and some not, include pubic hair prevents dirt and other floating germs to enter the vagina, it keeps our genitals warm, and it’s the perfect cushion during sex, bicycling and other forms of exercise that put pressure on our vagina.

 

Pubic hair is also thought to create ‘pheromones’ which are invisible sexual smells that are sexually enticing and erotic to your partner.  We know pubic hair can be a decorative accessory under the sheets during Valentine’s Day or for different cultural preferences.  

 

When does the first sign of hair growth (vellus hair) begin on my vuvla?

Vellus hair is the very short, light fine hair that covers the skin on the body.  This type of hair is meant to protect the skin and keep the body warm. Terminal hair is the thicker and darker hair that grows in the pubic area, on the head, under the arms and on the face and starts to grow during puberty.

 

 Does pubic hair stop growing at a certain point?

Just like other hair on our body, pubic hair will start to thin out during different hormonal stages in our lives.  During menopause and with age, pubic hair will start to thin out and not grow as steadily. Also, certain medical conditions and medications and getting chemotherapy can make pubic hair thin out.

 

Can it be a different color than the hair on your head?

Usually the hair on your head, under your arms and on your vagina is similar in color.  It’s not always the case since there can be slight variations in color due to the amount of melanin that gives hair its color.  

 

Why do women like to groom their pubic hair?

Ask a roomful of us and this is what you may hear:

• Less hair means less bush!
• I think a waxed vagina looks more clean and tidy—and I can show off my “lady luscious labia.” 
• My boyfriend likes it gone. My husband likes it trimmed. (And, no, I don’t know if this was spoken by the same women.)
• It’s sexier!
• It looks and feels better!
• It’s better for oral sex.
• It’s better if you want to wear a bathing suit without a towel wrapped around your waist all day.
• Definitely better for G-strings and edible underwear.
• I feel more sensual when my vagina’s waxed, and it makes my orgasms more intense.
• Less hair means less vaginal odors and skin irritations (spoken like a true pragmatist).

 

What do men prefer for their female partner’s pubic hair?

In a recent survey 5,000 men were asked, “What do you find attractive when it comes to women’s pubic hair?” 

Forty-one percent preferred the “completely bare look,” noting that, “Brazilian is king!”. Thirty-eight percent preferring a trimmed and well-groomed pubic area, citing that a grown woman ought to have “something down there.” Fifteen percent had no preference whatsoever; generously acknowledging “a woman should do whatever makes her feel comfortable and sexy.” Five percent preferred an “all natural” bush, and one percent said “other” (whatever that might mean).

Although 85 percent of the men surveyed did, indeed, have a preference when it came to a woman’s pubic hair, only nine percent claimed they would end a date or that they would forego sex based on a woman’s care of her pubic hair. Even as of this writing, the style tending towards a bit more bush may be trending.

 

Do men like to do with their pubic hair? 

It may surprise you, but 88 percent of men do some form of manscaping (defined as the aesthetic grooming of a man’s bodily hair). Out of this percentage, nearly half felt the pressure to do some pubic grooming because their partner did so. But what really impressed me about this study was that two thirds of the men surveyed found that a woman who didn’t fuss about grooming and who was comfortable in her own skin to be sexier than a woman who put excessive time and money into trying to maintain someone else’s idea of perfection. Interesting. Three cheers for these particular men!

 

What’s the best way to care for my pubic hair?

Shaving, waxing or laxer hair removal is a personal preference based on what is easiest and most convenient for women.  Shaving tends to be quick and easy and can be done every few days.  Waxing is a popular pubic hair removal technique that can be done every 4 to 6 weeks. Laser is another great option but is costly and gives you a similar result to waxing.

The factors that influence our decision to shave, wax or laser will depend on your personal preference, your partners preference, frequency of getting naked, convenience and cost of what procedure works best for you.

Whether you chose the blade, laser or wax for pubic hair removal, just make sure your skin is kept clean before and after. 

The pubic area is a highly sensitive place, so it’s possible that a simple wax job may prove a painful experience. I would also advise any first timer to trim their pubic hair as short as possible before waxing. Although rare, labia tears can occur in an improperly executed wax job. Know your waxer, or get a referral. Whether you’re a newbie or wax master, there are ways you can prepare for your waxing appointment.

A couple disadvantages to laser removal is that it can be costly and cause skin irritation, and, because of the possibility of skin discoloration, it works best only on certain skin and hair types. 

 

Shaving pubic hair, not the best idea.

Yes, it is quick and easy to grab a razor and shave your pubic hair, but do heed a bit of advice if you chose this route. 

Make certain to have a clean razor-blade, use shaving gel or cream with warm water, apply gentle pressure and use after-shave skin cream to keep the area hydrated and clean. Avoid products containing alcohol, and above all never be in a rush when shaving. 

Skin in the pubic hair area is especially sensitive and vulnerable to skin irritation—one of the reasons to use new blades is that old ones carry unwanted bacteria that can cause razor burns, bumps, acne, and other irritations to the skin and hair follicles. Although women (and men) love the look (and feel) of a freshly shaved vagina, unfortunately, that same desirable look and feel doesn’t last too long with shaving. The hair that resurfaces tends to be thicker, pricklier and painful to the touch in its early stages of regrowth. Definitely not a sexy, feel-good experience for you or your partner.

Whether you chose the blade, laser, or wax for pubic hair removal, just make sure your skin is kept clean before and after. Using a loofah on the skin after any kind of hair removal helps to prevent ingrown hairs during regrowth. Non-fragrant soaps and lotions are also helpful in protecting this delicate area against acne, rashes, and other skin irritations.

If you’re ready to tread further into sprucing up your vagina and pubic area, there are other creative avenues to explore, some of which are considered to be downright artistic.  A few you may want to consider (or just talk about considering with some girlfriends at your next book club):

 

Does pubic hair grow in thicker when you shave?

Shaving is definitely a quick and easy way to remove your pubic hair.  Although women (and men) love the look and feel of a freshly shaved vagina, unfortunately, that same desirable look and feel doesn’t last too long with shaving. The hair that resurfaces tends to be thicker, pricklier and painful to the touch in its early stages of regrowth.

 

Waxing hurts!… my pubic area!

You know the term (and have probably suffered or enjoyed at least a session or two). It refers to a form of grooming in which pubic hair is temporarily removed from its root. Since the lifecycle of hair is approximately four to six weeks, it takes that same amount of time for the hair to return. This common form of grooming is relatively quick and painless (unless you’re me). Warm wax is applied to the pubic hair that is to be removed using a small strip of cloth. Once the wax hardens, the cloth is yanked off along with the unwanted hair. Voila! There can be redness and pain associated with this particular beautifying procedure, but take hope as there are numbing creams that can be applied to the vagina and pubic hair area to make the procedure less uncomfortable.

The pubic area is a highly sensitive place, so it’s possible that a simple wax job may prove a painful experience. Sherri Shepherd, a comedian and former co-host from The View, did a YouTube video of her first bikini wax experience. She eschewed the prescribed numbing cream recommended to her as the newbie she was and concluded, “This is worse than having a baby!” Well, not really, I thought, but I felt her pain. If she had come to me first I would have insisted she spring for numbing cream an hour prior and an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen, and then I would have passed on the encouraging news that the discomfort of waxing eases over repeat sessions as the hair removed becomes weaker and grows more slowly. I would also advise any first timer to trim their pubic hair as short as possible before waxing. It also should be noted that skin irritation and ingrown hair can result after waxing, as can an increased chance of Staph infection around the hair follicle, called folliculitis, which may develop into abscesses if not treated properly. Although rare, labia tears can occur in an improperly executed wax job. Know your waxer, or get a referral. Whether you’re a newbie or wax master, there are ways you can prepare for your waxing appointment.

 

 

Types of waxing styles

Like any good hairstyle, there are a number of variations to the wax. First off, if you’re immune to waxing styles, be assured that there’s always The Natural Bush. No hair is removed (or harmed) in the making of this au natural style. No trimming, no muss, no fuss. The big and bushy trend is always on its way in (or out). Short of letting it all hang out is to simply trim pubic hair, which involves only shortening the hair.

• Triangle or Bikini line waxing – this removes pubic hair, leaving the remaining hair in the shape of a neat triangle so that when you wear a swimsuit there is nothing visible. Another name for this type of wax job is The Bermuda Triangle. A smaller such triangle is a Martini (no olive). 
• American waxing, referred to as a basic bikini wax, is the removal of any pubic hair that might be seen when wearing a swimsuit. This may include removal of hair on the upper thighs. 
• French waxing is a type of pubic hair removal that leaves a vertical strip. It’s also known as the Landing or Playboy strip or a partial Brazilian wax. It leaves a strip of hair just above the vulva about two inches long and an inch and a half wide. Anal hair as well as pubic hair is removed in this type of wax job. A fuller version of the narrow strip is a Mohawk.
• The full-bush Brazilian is the removal of all pubic and anal hair—ouch. Pardon me—although sometimes a very thin strip of hair is left on the pubic area. Bikini waxer extraordinaire Jola Brozdynski describes the full-bush Brazilian as the wax job “for Hippies with porn-y sex lives.” Those worshippers of the hairless look claim that sex is better on every level, especially with oral sex. Obviously, a mouthful of hair is not an issue after a Brazilian. If you were to listen to Eva Longoria’s advice, you must try a Brazilian at least once in your life. Apparently, the sex you’ll have in the wake of such a wax will keep you coming back again and again. 

 

Other creative styles include The Romantic, also known as The Heart or Heart Attack, which leaves the pubic hair in the shape of a heart—a popular Valentine’s Day pattern. The French may refer to their pubic wax as an Underground Ticket or Ticket de Metro. 

Japanese Fan, Square Style, Short and Sweet, Very Vivacious, Sphinx Style, The Directive, The Gambler, The Bare-Cheeked Butler, The Excuse, The Patriot, Freestyle and Hollywood are other names I’ve heard mentioned over the years and in my research. Go ahead, pick a name, whatever it may be, there’s a long line of female (and male) waxing fans. 

 

What are the benefits of waxing?

There are definitely fewer incidences of ingrown hairs in waxing, as compared with shaving the sensitive pubic area. Hair regrowth after waxing also tends to be softer. (Globally, Bikini waxing has also resulted in a decrease in pubic lice!) If you are bold enough, you may do a bikini wax in the privacy of your own home. With experience, you’ll become a little more skilled with each rip… I mean, removal. Waxing hair in the pubic area may also prove a kinder and gentler effect on the skin of the vagina as you can wait four to six weeks in between waxing sessions, thereby causing less skin aggravation.

 

Getting Ready for Your Bikini Wax Close-up

• Shower before your appointment.
• Cut your pubic hair to no more than a quarter inch.
• Gently exfoliate your bikini line the night before.
• Find a qualified and reputable waxing facility! The extent of your satisfaction is directly related to your waxing professionals.
• And don’t—DO NOT—shave between waxing sessions. Shaving chafes the skin and only serves to make the pubic hair sharper and coarser (and, thereby, more difficult to remove).

 

What about laser hair removal for pubic hair?

In this procedure, a laser is used to remove unwanted hair in the same way that lasers are often used to remove hair anywhere else on the body. Unlike waxing, however, laser treatments slow hair growth and, over continuous treatments, can result in permanent removal—although, there is no guarantee. Laser removal works best for light skinned people with dark hair since the laser easily finds the hair against a lighter backdrop.  A couple disadvantages to laser removal is that it can be costly and cause skin irritation, and, because of the possibility of skin discoloration, it works best only on certain skin and hair types. However, removing pubic hair with a laser can require longer stretches in between removal, thus causing less skin problems.

 

There’s an interesting passage in Cameron Diaz’ health and fitness book in the chapter “In Praise of Pubes.” Apparently she is not a fan of permanent laser removal as she writes, “Personally, I think permanent laser hair removal sounds like a crazy idea. Forever? I know you may think you’ll be wearing the same style of shoes forever and the same style of jeans forever, but you won’t. The idea that vaginas are preferable in a hairless state is a pretty recent phenomenon, and all fads change, people.”

 

What about waxing vs lasering pubic hair removal?

Waxing definitely has fewer incidences of ingrown hairs compared to shaving. Waxing hair in the pubic area causes less skin aggravation. I would also advise any first timer to trim their pubic hair as short as possible before waxing. It also should be noted that skin irritation and ingrown hair can result after waxing, as can an increased chance of Staph infection around the hair follicle, called folliculitis, which may develop into abscesses if not treated properly. Although rare, labia tears can occur in an improperly executed wax job.

Laser removal of pubic hair has similar benefits to waxing. A couple disadvantages to laser removal is that it can be costly and cause skin irritation, and, because of the possibility of skin discoloration, it works best only on certain skin and hair types. However, removing pubic hair with a laser can require longer stretches in between removal, thus causing less skin problems.

Laser removal of pubic hair has similar benefits to waxing. Unlike waxing, however, laser treatments slow hair growth and, over continuous treatments, can result in permanent removal—although, there is no guarantee and not a “permanent” hair removal process.  Laser removal works best for light skinned people with dark hair since the laser easily finds the hair against a lighter backdrop. If laser removal wasn’t so costly it would be the ideal way to remove pubic hair.

Whether you wax or laser do your homework to find a reputable and clean environment to have your pubic hair styled.  Yelp, friends and doctors’ recommendations are useful in finding a safe place for you monthly grooming. 

DYI? You really have to be vagina friendly, have a quick wrist and high-quality wax in order to do it yourself at home if waxing is your preference.  With so many reputable and qualified waxing professionals in your neighborhood, I would suggest you give yourself the gift of a proper grooming experience.

 

How common is the pubic hair “big and bushy”?

The all-natural big bush is the least common and favorite amongst the many choices of pubic hair styling.   Most women and their partners do not prefer this style of grooming but it’s about personal preference.  There is no medical downside to letting it all hang out.  The pros of letting your pubes grow without any grooming attention is you have no risk of ingrown hairs or skin irritation.  As long as you give those long pubic hair hygienic attention, with soap and water, there is no downside to letting it all hang out.  The cons to letting your pubes grow without trimming the hairs is urine and odor build up may be more common.  

 

Vajazzling the V?

What you get when you bedazzle the vagina: Vajazzling, a non-permanent, creative way of creating the glamorous vagina. A few years ago Jennifer Love Hewitt is believed to have helped coin this expression when she decorated her freshly waxed pubic area with Swarovski jewels—not to worry if you don’t have the budget for these luxury cut lead glass crystals; faux/plastic crystals are an inexpensive alternative. The process involves a paste application of the small ornaments around the pubic area after a full Brazilian. There are DIY kits, but the jury is still out on whether they’re actually a cheaper alternative to using a vajazzling pro since even fake crystals have the potential to cut or mysteriously disappear in nearby orifices (yes, the vagina and anus) if improperly applied. 

 

Tattooing the Vulva?

Tattooing is an art form that has been around since the beginning of time, no matter what part of the body provides the canvas. A permanent tattoo is an everlasting piece of body art. If you’re thinking of investing in such art do the research and give it as much thought as possible. I highly recommend not putting the name of your partner, it never ends well for many! You will carry this art with you for the rest of your life, so it is vital that you understand the process and risks of a tattoo, especially in the vaginal (and anal) area. 

Tattoos are created with pigments that are inserted through pricks into the top layer of the skin. The tattoo artist uses a hand-held machine that employs multiple needles to deliver these tiny droplets of pigment or ink. The placement process can create a small amount of bleeding and pain. Typically, no anesthetics are used.

 

Piercing the V, really?

You name it, it can be pierced: ear, lip, bellybutton, nose… vagina. The risks and complications of piercing the vagina are the same as piercing any other part of your body, although the vagina is definitely a bit more sensitive to this particular process.

Certain risks are associated with piercing. These may include allergic reactions to nickel (a metal used in piercings), tearing or trauma from a piercing being caught or accidentally torn out, and, as is the same in tattooing: skin infections, skin problems such as scarring and keloids, and blood-borne disease from contaminated instruments.

If you chose to pierce your vagina or clitoral hood, make sure you consider the risks and complications and choose a reputable licensed body-piercing artist.

There are many other ways in which women may choose to decorate their vaginas. That said, I wanted to toss in a few “glamifying” methods that, I would say, you do you! 

• Scarification, an art form in which a scar or keloid is intentionally created for ritual or decorative purposes.
• Subdermal implants, which are silicon implants placed directly under the skin, thereby creating a 3-D appearance.
• Skin stretching, which is typically seen in the earlobes (earlobe stretching). In earlobe piercing and stretching a hole is made and then stretched with a variety of objects such as rings and plugs. Vulvar Lip stretching has yet to catch on as a popular alternative.
• Branding, a form of scarification where a design is burned on the skin.

 

Do I really have to do anything special down south?

Beauty is most certainly in the eye of the beholder, even when it comes to your vagina. To style or not to style your pubic hair, to pierce or tattoo, I would advise you to do what makes you feel best. What’s important to you? Are you considering your partner’s desires in lieu of your own?

What’s most important is a clean, cared-for vagina. A glamorous vagina is one that is confident, and a confident vagina is, above all else, clean and healthy. Bedazzling can neither mask nor take the place of a well-care for vagina!

 

When should I get a Vaginal Rejuvenation?

Although controversial, there are some cosmetic vaginal surgeries which lay claims in providing a “designer vagina,” “re-virgination,” or “G-spot amplification”. There are doctors who may promote these surgeries but do be aware that they are not supported by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and that they may present permanent complications such as pain with sex, scarring, and infection. Please get a second or third opinion with a reputable gynecologist before considering such a procedure. 

 

What’s the worst feminine hygiene ritual for me vulva?

The worst thing a woman can do for the skin of the vulva is wearing a sanitary napkin or panty liner every day to collect accidental loss of urine or normal vaginal discharge that can get on your underwear. Sanitary pads and panty liners can disrupt and irritate the skin of the vulva when worn daily. Many are scented with fragrances or contain synthetic materials with chemicals that cause skin dryness and irritation. Vulvar skin dryness and irritation can cause chronic itching of this delicate area of the vagina.  A condition called the “scratch-itch” cycle can occur as a result of wearing sanitary napkins and panty liners every day.  Even the most organic and natural panty liners can disrupt the delicate skin of the vulva.