A doctor, Abies Ojokojo, has warned women against vaginal douching. She advised that they should not use soap, cleansing agents, or any other substances to clean inside the vagina.
Douching means washing or cleaning inside the vagina with water or other substances.
Ms Ojokojo, a doctor at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), shared this advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Benin.
She explained that the vagina cleans itself naturally. Women should wash the outer genital area regularly with clean water.
The doctor stressed that water should only be used on the outside, not inside the vagina. She added that soap and other cleansing products are not needed inside.
She also warned women against inserting tampons or other objects into their bodies. Such actions can lead to health risks.
Ms Ojokojo encouraged women to use sanitary pads during their periods. She said they should change them regularly and make sure the products are approved by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.
She advised women to wear clean underwear every day, wash them properly, and dry them well, preferably in sunlight.
The doctor also said women should replace underwear when it becomes old or dirty.
Ms Ojokojo cautioned against trying to treat any unusual vaginal smell on their own. She said this could be a sign of an infection that needs medical help.
“If you notice a smell that is not normal, seek medical help because it could be an infection that needs urgent treatment,” she said.
She explained that women can have a natural and unique vaginal smell, which should not be viewed as abnormal.
After using the toilet, she advised women to wipe from front to back. This helps reduce the risk of spreading bacteria from the anal area to the genital area.
She urged women to use good-quality toilet paper. They should seek medical attention whenever they notice any unusual symptoms instead of trying to treat themselves.
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