You know what we don’t talk about often enough? Vaginas.
After all, they’re a pretty key functioning part of the female body and they deserve some attention. Plus, did you know the clitoris is the only human organ made purely for sexual pleasure? Yep. So considering she takes such good care of you, it’s only right to return the favour.
Now, we’re not saying your vagina needs a 10-step pamper routine daily; she’s pretty self-reliant. But there’s a bit to know when it comes to ensuring your vagina’s health, optimal comfort and performance.
What can we say? A happy vagina is a happy life, so pay attention to the tips you ought to know.
#1 Help your vagina when she’s struggling
For the most part, our vaginas are excellent at taking care of themselves. But when they’re struggling (whether it be from a pH imbalance, irritation of sorts or anything else that’s throwing them off), they’ll certainly let you know. It could be a change in discharge, an itch that just won’t quit or all-around uncomfortability, but whatever form it comes in, don’t ignore the signs and hope it’ll just go away.
Most changes (when caught early) are easily treated and sometimes your vagina just needs a bit of help — there’s no shame in that. If you can’t speak to your doctor, describe your symptoms to your pharmacist who can also help to find you a solution. They’ve heard their fair share of downstairs dramas, we promise.
Sometimes all that may be needed is a switch in body wash. Particularly if you’ve been using a fragrance or soap-based formula that’s disagreed with your downstairs. femfresh™ Soothing Wash ($7 at Woolworths) has some great reviews from our members and is formulated to keep your intimate skin feeling hydrated and soothed. Plus, it’s clinically tested under dermatological and gynaecological control.
#2 Keep things comfy (and breathable) when you’re on your period
As equally as you shouldn’t let your period stop you from doing anything, there’s no shame in relaxing a few things throughout your menstrual cycle either.
Don’t feel like going to the gym? Then don’t. Those exercise tights can be hell.
Want to wear the daggy undies that feel comfiest? Go for it. Your vagina deserves it.
Speaking of comfort, make sure that’s a top priority when choosing your sanitary products, too. We love the TOM Organic Ultra Thin Regular Pads ($5.99 at Chemist Warehouse) because they’re super breathable, thin, soft and will keep you fresh and dry no matter your flow. We’re also very into period underwear. Don’t knock ‘em ‘til you try them.
#3 Supplements can seriously help come menopause
From periods to menopause, gee we ladies have it good!
Menopause can not only throw our vaginas out of whack (hello dryness) but it can also wreak havoc on our bodies and emotions due to hormone imbalances.
You may also find you’re more sluggish than usual, easily irritated and (our favourite) experiencing hot flashes.
Try taking supplements to help relieve symptoms and support nutritional needs.
Harmony Menopause ($47.99 for 120 tablets at Priceline) combines a synergistic blend of herbs traditionally used in Chinese Medicine with vitamins to help balance, cool and calm menopausal symptoms. If hot flashes are keeping you up at night, Swisse Ultiboost Menopause Balance ($45.99 at Swisse) can also help to alleviate night sweats and the sleeping issues and nervous irritability often associated with menopause.
#4 Hair removal doesn’t have to be painful
Whether you like your vagina to be as smooth and hairless as a dolphin or shrouded in a neat and tidy blanket of stubble, it’s 2021 and hair removal doesn’t have to be painful.
Our latest favourite gadget? The Remington Beauty Trim Bikini Trimmer ($19.95 at Shaver Shop), which features five different settings for various hair lengths. Think of the va-styles!
As for the waxers among us, let us introduce you to our special friend: Numit Numbing Cream ($26.99 for 30g at Chemist Warehouse). Apply this in preparation of your DIY wax or in-salon appointment and you’ll barely wince.
As for after care, the Ella Baché Recovery Gel ($47 at David Jones) is a godsend for relieving any post-laser or waxing discomfort on the pubic area. Plus, it contains niacinamide to keep skin smooth and prevent ingrown hairs. Just keep it for soothing the surface only.
#5 Vaginas love lubricant
Whether you’re experiencing vaginal dryness or not, lube is legendary. The wetter the better, we say.
In fact, the stigma around lube is a bit silly if you ask us. After all, a lot of us love to have a coffee in the morning to get us going; so what’s wrong with our vaginas loving a bit of lube to get them going?
If you haven’t found your fave yet, let us introduce you to the water-based formula that is silky, slippery and specially designed with natural ingredients. plusOne® Personal Lubrication ($13.99 at Catwalk). Increase your pleasure with the condom (and silicone) compatible liquid and rest easy knowing it won’t be staining your sheets.
#6 Orgasms are an act of self-care
Speaking of all things wet and fun, orgasms are excellent for your health – make them a priority.
Orgasms have been proven to be excellent stress relievers (endorphins to the brain please), great at relieving tension and pain (mucho relaxo) and as a result can help you sleep a hell of a lot better too.
So if counting sheep or having a long bath isn’t helping, try the We-Vibe Nova 2 ($149.95 at Liberty Love). You and your vagina will be very happy indeed.
What’s the best vagina tip you’ve learnt over the years?
I was thrilled when I first heard about menstrual cups (from here on the Bh forum). I only used a cup for a few years – then I hit menopause (Hallelujah!) I wish I’d heard about them when I was at school!
I’ve also had laser hair removal & I love it!
Excellent article with some great tips. Things change rapidly everywhere as you age and your often not as comfortable there due to dryness and irritation with no real cause .
If only menstrual cups were around in my day !! herbal supplements really helped me through menopause and its really just a matter of finding what works best for you.
I’ve never tried any of the cleaning products.
Got a heap of Vagisil products coming in my BH Rewards Room order. I’m a convert to intimate area specific products.
with laser do you have to keep up with the treatments each month for maintenance?
I tried the period underwear this year. Bought the bonds one and OMG game changer. So comfy and leak proof . I also thought washing them was going to be a pain but if you wash them straight away it isn’t that bad. I am never going to go back to pads now.
Great tips , important subject
Had to laugh at the fruit images ..
Menstrual cup is everything! Never had issues otherwise. Oh, I always chill and rest when having periods.
I loved this article and clearly I need to start investigating menopausal supplements.
I’ve been using a cup for about three years and whilst every now and then I still have mishaps (due to not positition properly and heavy days) I would never go back but I wish menopause would come sooner then I wouldn’t have to worry about contraception either.
My daughter uses period underwear and that’s not completely leakproof either.
Interesting subject that is usually not mentioned some great advice in maintaining our Vaginas and keeping them and us happy in tip top form.
I really dont know that I have a best vagina tip. hhmm I shall have to ponder.
A nice cup of tea does the trick for me and some cake.
I’ve heard of period underwear and have wanted to get one to see what it’s like
I imagine the Numit cream would be similar to what they use on the back of your hand when you have an anaesthetic.
I want to try period underwear!
I really want to try some, my friends say they just wash them in the shower afterwards..
Supplements definitely helped mum through menopause.
Sometimes you get a stray pop up, so some people have to go back once a year. I won a home IPL machine, so I treat any randoms straight away, but I’ve only had a few.
Oh that is great. Works out to be quite economical especially if you have the home ipl for maintenance.Thanks
I just handwash them in my laundry sink at the end of the day.
I have some too, they are great for me because my periods are very unpredictable and quite light now I am getting older, sometimes hardly enough to warrent using a panty liner. Very handy, I hope more women start using them.
I find Kolorex products really helpful in this (area) in particular Intimate Care. It’s available online and is a herbal cream from New Zealand. It’s very soothing, they also do a wash.
I was extremely lucky and sailed through menopause so easily. A hot flush here and there but other than that it was a breeze.
No worries, Moonlight! It’s a few years since I had it done (at a salon, before I won the home ipl device) & I’ve got no regrets.
My other tips have regular Pap smears. If you are young enough to get the free HPV vaccine do it. I think you can pay for it too.
Wear cotton underwear.
I ordered as well!I can’t wait for the package to come!
I think the cups are a new thing! They didn’t exist back then.
That is a great idea, does it take long?
That is convenient!
Really great to hear!
As in. It overflows?
Really interesting hearing your experience.
I’ve been seeing it more and more these days and I’m afraid of the mess!
That is a good reminder!
Interesting read, not something that I think about.
Yep, bring on the clean (and non itchy) vag luxuries! Be interested in your reviews. Tricky to discuss “intimate hygiene products” without using some would say gross and graphic descriptions!
Regular pap smears. Health first !
I have to say that I am disappointed that this article has used incorrect anatomical terms for female body parts. I’m a Registered Nurse as well as a being a sexual wellness consultant. I also sell relationship enhancement products, lubricants, and adult “bedroom accessories”, and I endeavour to educate and empower women because I am constantly amazed at the lack of knowledge that many women have about their own bodies.
The vulva is the correct name for the external parts of the female genitalia. This includes the labia, clitoris, vaginal opening, and the opening to the urethra (where urine passes). The vagina is an internal organ, so we would definetly not be washing it and shaving it!
I know what you mean!
I completely agree, as a Sexologist I find the lack of correct information regarding the vulva and vagina to be extremely disappointing.
I will never look at a dolphin the same way again!
Common sense really…
That has happened but I think positioning is really important. If the opening is not positioned towards the base of the spine then it’s not catching all the flow and sometimes when you’re in a rush you forget to make sure.
Interesting points made, and correct naming of parts would have been better for the article.
They were actually invented in the 1930s, but they took a while to catch on.
very interesting
Oh gosh, it sounds so technical!
I had no idea!!