Your vagina is self-cleansing. That’s what the discharge is all about. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t need some attention. Just don’t make the mistake of over-washing (and yes, you can

do just that). Many gynecologists say that washing once a day is more than enough. If you feel like you need to more due to a foul odor or changes

in your discharge, soap and water are probably not the solution. Setting an appointment with your physician is the better bet.

The pH level of a healthy vagina is somewhere between 3.5 to 4.5. The pH level of a lot of body cleansers is around 8. See where we’re going with

that? You don’t want to throw your body’s pH levels off, so it’s best to avoid all of the bells ‘n whistles of soaps with lots of ingredients and fragrances.

In fact, if you soak in bathwater that has some apple cider vinegar or even baking soda in it for about 15 minutes, that can clean your vagina as much, if

not better than, a bar of unscented soap. (Yes, if you must use soap, go with the unscented kind.)

Try and avoid dyes as much as possible too. Sometimes women develop yeast infections because of the underwear or even the kinds of washcloths that they use (especially if they’re

the cheap kind). Besides, a light-colored washcloth helps you to monitor the color of your discharge (which should be some shade of white, by the way). Oh, and just like

with toilet paper, wash front to back at all times, please.

Even vaginal care has trends. Douching has been around forever while steaming is relatively new. Both are frowned upon though. Again, your vagina doesn’t need help keeping the inside of

it clean. Your body was made to do that all on its own. Someone once compared douching to giving your va-jay-jay a cigarette. Enough said there. And steaming? While some

people swear by it, here are some of the (proven) concerns. Vaginal steaming can also alter the good bacteria levels in your vagina. But more importantly, you run the risk

of burning the skin down there. You DON’T EVER want to feel the fallout from that!

Love on your clitoris. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to have those mind-blowing orgasms that you enjoy so much! One way to show your appreciation is to give it

some special attention during the washing process. Be gentle, but also be intentional. Simply clean the folds around your clitoris. Discharge and even lint from your panties can easily get

caught up in there if you’re not careful.

This a bonus. Panty liners may soak up some of the discharge you may have throughout the day, but they can also create a breeding ground for moistness and bacteria

that can lead to yeast and potentially bacterial infections. Try some cotton panties instead. Your vagina will be able to breath, which, in most cases, makes the discharge a moot

point.