It?s 21 st century, and sex education is often unheard of and not openly discussed, and one of the most hushed topics is woman?s intimate area. Our vaginas are truly a beautiful ecosystem; complete with their pH and a balance of good and bad bacteria. Unfortunately, a vagina has always been considered an inappropriate topic to discuss. Lack of discussion and awareness has developed various misconceptions and myths.
The myths and beliefs have not only kept women in isolation but also kept them away from basic hygiene and sanitation.
The genital organ plays an important role in a woman?s overall health and hygiene plays a major role in safeguarding these body parts. Thanks to science and wellness for the availability of hygiene products. But the problem occurs when there is awareness about the availability of feminine hygiene products, but at the same time, there is hesitation around talking about these products and buying them over the counter.
Let?s talk about some of the most common misconceptions.
MYTH #1 USING SANITARY PRODUCTS LIKE TAMPONS AND MENSTRUAL CUP CAN CAUSE INFERTILITY
FACT: Such products have got nothing to do with infertility.
MYTH #2 YOU WILL LOSE YOUR VIRGINITY IF YOU USE A TAMPON -
FACT: Using a tampon does break a hymn but it does not change your virginity, you are a virgin until you have sex.
MYTH #3 IT IS NECESSARY TO USE SPECIALIZED CLEANING PRODUCTS FOR VAGINA -
FACT: The vagina is self-cleaning. Using cleaning products can change the pH balance, resulting in vaginal infections. Just use a simple and, ideally, non-scented soap.
MYTH #4 ONE SHOULD USE SCENTED WIPES CAUSE IT IS SUPPOSED TO SMELL GOOD
FACT: It is not supposed to smell like a field of flowers. Scented products affect the pH balance.
MYTH #5 A MENSTRUAL CUP WILL STRETCH MY VAGINA
FACT: After you remove your cup, the vagina returns to its compressed state. It is therefore not possible for a menstrual cup to stretch the muscle tissues of the vagina.
Truth is, proper hygiene of the genital area is extremely important. It?s also true that proper hygiene is simple; you see, the vagina cleanses itself naturally. The bacteria and cells in the vagina keep the environment at a normal vaginal pH balance. A healthy vagina also secretes small amounts of white or clear discharge.
Other than that vaginal health is not something that should be ?private?. It is important to break the taboo and get people talking openly and honestly with their friends, family, and their doctors.
It is not just empowering, it is sort of necessary.