How often should you wash down there? Doctors answer

Regularly washing your intimate area is among the most basic practices in personal hygiene. Aside from eliminating unwanted odors, cleaning yourself prevents common infections such as yeast infections and urinary tract infections (UTI).

But Dr. Anafe Obrigoso-Gloria, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, warned excessive washing can result in dryness and irritation.

“Once or twice a day should be enough,” the OB-GYN recommended at the recently concluded Two Lips event hosted by The Beauty Edit.

She added, "It's best to use a vaginal cleanser with mild ingredients or natural ingredients to cleanse the area."

In a 2023 interview, Dr. Jennifer Jose, a urogynecologist, pelvic reconstructive surgeon, and aesthetic gynecologist at Pelvic Health and Intimate Wellness Center at Medical Plaza Makati, said "the vagina self-cleans. You don't have to insert an examining finger in the vagina to clean it."

"Of course, externally, you should wash with a delicate soap — unscented, as much as possible — no fragrance," she continues, explaining less fragrance means less chemicals. "That will be better."

At the event, Dr. Anna Palabyab-Rufino, a board-certified dermatologist, also said you don’t have to alter your hygiene routine when menstruating.

“You don’t need a stronger vaginal wash or cleanser when you’re on your period,” she said. “Wash it once or twice a day, use a mild feminine wash and it should be okay,” Palabyab-Rufino added.

Dr. Gloria and Dr. Palabyab-Rufino were the guest doctors at the Philippine relaunch of Two Lips. a Singapore-borne luxury intimate care brand offering cleansing and pampering products for the vulva, face, and body.

— LA, GMA Integrated News