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.

I like to think of the vagina and vulva like your oven at home. It may be self-cleaning but you still have to clean the stove top. The inside of the vagina has an army of healthy bacteria that cleans itself with a normal vagina discharge…similar to how tears help clean your eyes. The vulva and the entrance to the vagina need special attention given the exposure bacteria, sweat glands and hair. 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 hydrate, moisturized and cleansed properly.

Keeping the skin hydrated, clean and cared for will help prevent dryness. Other helpful daily hygiene rituals include using a gentle, non-fragranced soap and natural skin moisturizer daily especially ones made specifically for the vagina. Taking a 20-minute warm bath with a handful of extra virgin coconut oil 3 to 4 times a week will also rehydrate and moisturize the skin of the vagina. Adding oral or vaginal pro-biotics to your daily regimen will also keep the vagina hydrated and in complete balance and harmony.

Balance in life and balance in the vagina go hand in hand. The vagina is normally acidic. This sounds pretty scary however it is the preferred pH balance and is perfect for the many protective organisms which all live happily together in the vagina. Anything that disrupts this delicate balance could lead to vaginal misery such as an infection, dryness, itching or burning.

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.