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[/frame_left]As a gynecologist, one of the most common complaints from women is a complaint of vaginal discharge with odor or itching. There are a plethora of over the counter creams and ointments that claim to improve these symptoms. Some of the options being offered can be effective and some are not. One of the over the counter options is a douche.
I grew up watching advertisements for these douching products. The advertisements are quite convincing. “If you do not feel so fresh”, or “have a monthly odor’, this could be your cure. The truth is we cannot make our vaginas smell like a bouquet of flowers.
There are healthy bacteria found in the vagina called bacterial flora, which keep the vaginal PH stabile in the vagina. If there is an interruption in this healthy bacteria ( and a change in the pH) an infection can occur. The infections can present with a variety of symptoms including a change in discharge, vaginal itching or burning and odor. Douching is never, ever recommended because it can strip away the healthy bacteria and thus can make women more prone to infections.
Dr. OZ used one of my favorite quotes on his show. He said “the vagina is a self- cleaning oven”. This is true. If a woman has symptoms of a vaginal infection, the infection should be evaluated and treated. Over the counter medications can be quite effective if the correct infection is being treated. If symptoms persist despite over the counter medications than evaluation by a medical professional is recommended.
Hi Dr. K,
What about the new product from vagisil. It’s a vaginal wash that claims to wash away bacteria and prevent odor. Is that okay to use? Is it okay to use when you’re pregnant? Thanks!!
-Erin
Erin, I am sorry that it took me time to respond to you. I had to research this product. The new Vagisil product is an external wash that claims to wash away bacteria and help with odor. This product is to be used on the external skin, and is safe to use even in pregnancy. This product has a slight scent to it. Some women may become very irritated with scented products. If that were to occur the product should be discontinued.
Also, I always caution women about self treating vaginal infections. If you are self treating and not responding you should see your doctor. Pregnant woman should not self treat vaginal infections without at least speaking with their doctor.
Hi Dr. K,
A few months ago, I went to a gynecologist and was told that I have precancerous cells on my cervix. The next procedure I have to have is the leep cone for removal but that’s not for a few weeks or so. This is my second time going through this process.
I do have some odor and some discharge. I’ve been eating yogurt and drinking cranberry juice which I’ve been told is good for maintaining health down there. Is there something else I can do to feel more clean? Or do I just have to wait until I have this procedure and heal? Any advice would be helplful, thank you!
-Amanda
Amanda, If you are experiencing vaginal odor, I would first suggest that you see your gynecologist to exclude an infection. Some women will notice changes in there discharge and a slight change in odor throughout the course of the month. There is a product called Rephresh that stabilizes the pH in the vagina and can help with odor or itching and can be used regularly.It is not a douche. I hope this information is useful.
Hey Dr. K, I have an odor, itching, & sometimes burning. I’ve been to my gynecologist several times & she said to just wash atleast 3 times or more a day. It’s not helping and I tried vagisil & summers eve products. They work, but they irritate me. My question is, should I douche or not. Everyone says I shouldn’t because of the reasons you listed above. What should I do?
Hi Dr.K..
Since my late 20’s I have suffered with BV..now 37 I have developed an on going battle with chronic BV and have been Metro gel to the limits! Me and my GYN have worked diligently to uncover the root of this issue. My Pap Smear are all clear..I wear cotton undies and have been monogamous with my husband for 10 years..I have become so frustrated and embarrassed by this thing which goes away after using the metro gel but returns within a few weeks! I have read on some blogs a hydrogen peroxide douche can help. Some have even suggested long term preventive regimen with the metro gel or a oral probiotic may do the trick. I am willing to try anything any suggestions?
Hi. I’ve been using feminine wash since I was 14. Most of the time I only use it during my period to just make myself feel fresh. I’m 17 now and after reading this, I’m not so sure anymore. What would you suggest?
Nicole,
I read your post above. The problem with douching is that it can strip away healthy bacteria from the vagina which can lead to an infection. Many of my patients complain of a vaginal odor or “not feeling fresh’ after the menstrual cycle. I would recommend using the product Rephresh (vaginal gel insert) in place of your feminine wash. Rephresh can take away slight odor and will not affect your healthy bacteria.
I used medication to get rid of BV and the medication residue (or whatever it is) is still up there. Having sex is a mess and is grossing out my partner. He wants me to douche and I don’t want to but how do I get this out of me?