Douches. It’s normal to have some vaginal discharge, and changes to discharge can be hormonal. So douching to “clean out” the vagina can be unnecessary and harmful. (An exception may be if your health care provider recommends it.) That said, if you ever notice any vulvar changes that aren’t typical for you, like a change in discharge smell or color — or if you feel itchiness, burning or another unpleasant sensation, especially over time — it’s a good idea to talk with your health care provider, as these can be signs of an infection (such as a yeast or bacterial infection) or another condition that may need treatment. (For instance, pain in the genital area also can be a sign of a condition like vulvodynia.)
Petroleum jelly or similar emollients. Vaginal tissues can thin as we age as things can get a little drier. But, as Cleveland Clinic notes, it’s not recommended to use these emollient products vaginally. Plus, oil-based products, including petroleum jelly, can actually damage latex condoms if you’re using them. If you’re feeling dry down there, instead talk to your health care provider about whether a vaginal moisturizer or other treatment may help and, if so, which would be best. And if you want or need more lubrication during sex — because why not? — look into natural lubricants like those from Sliquid, Sustain and Good Clean Love. (If you’re using lubrication with condoms, you can check the label to confirm compatibility. Sustain, for instance is compatible with natural rubber latex but not polyurethane.)
Brand new, unwashed underwear. Wash new underwear before you wear it, Cleveland Clinic advises. You never know who handled it or tried it on before you. Plus, washing it first can help dilute some of the chemicals used in the manufacturing process.
Underwear washed in scented or harsh detergents. Just take care when you do the laundry, as the additives in scented soaps can be irritating. A solution? When you wash your underclothes, use a mild soap whenever possible.
Nylon or other synthetic underwear. If you wear lacy underwear for special occasions, we understand. But ideally, you’re regularly wearing cotton underwear, a natural fabric, as opposed to man-made fibers, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to vulvar irritation. And if you’re really gung-ho, you may even want to stick with white cotton undies.
P.S. There are some debates about whether thongs are problematic, but studies haven’t shown that thong underwear causes yeast, bacterial or urinary tract infections. That said, if you’re prone to irritation, or dealing with pain (remember: talk to your provider if so), you may want to skip thong styles. This one is a personal choice.
