Like getting lady-part infections? Didn’t think so. But you may be unintentionally sabotaging your efforts to keep things in working order down there: Most women use intravaginal products or washes—even though certain products are linked to an increased risk of bacterial and yeast infections, according to a new study soon to be published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology.
The study followed 141 women aged 18-65 in the Los Angeles area from 2008 to 2010. A whopping 66 percent of women reported either intravaginal washing (such as douching) or using products other than tampons intravaginally in the past month. So what exactly were they putting up there? Seventy percent used lube, 17 percent used petroleum jelly and 13 percent used oils, such as baby oil. But here’s the problem: Women who used petroleum jelly had a 22 percent increased risk of bacterial vaginosis, a common bacterial infection caused by out-of-whack pH levels. And women who used oils had a 32 percent increased risk of yeast infections.
While they didn’t find an increased risk of infections among women who douched, that doesn’t mean that it’s totally safe. A growing body of research points to harmful side effects associated with douching, which include an increased risk of infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and STDs, says lead study author Joelle Brown, PhD, an assistant professor at UCLA.
So what should you use down there? Stick with mild and soap and water (and even that shouldn’t be used intravaginally), says Alyssa Dweck, MD, co-author of V is For Vagina. “The vagina has a lot of mechanisms to keep itself clean,” says Dweck. Problems arise when you use products that alter the pH levels, causing it to increase into an unhealthy range, which screws with the balance of good and bad bacteria. The result: you’re more susceptible to infections, irritations, and sensitivity—all of which can make you more vulnerable to contracting STDs.
The bottom line: Don’t use any products or cleansers intravaginally that are not specifically intended for that purpose (that means Vaseline, baby oil, or any other “natural” mixtures are off-limits). And if you insist on douching or using other feminine products intravaginally, don’t do so more than once a month, says Dweck, since even these practices can mess with your pH levels.
Here, five doctor-approved items that are totally safe to use down there:
photo: rephreshgel.com
RepHresh Vaginal Gel
If you really feel like you need to freshen up, Dweck recommends this safe-to-use gel that lubricates and helps to maintain your natural pH balance. If you’re prone to infections or just feel like something is a little off, opting for this will be much better for your pH levels than douching.
$ 18.99 at Drugstore.com
photo: goodcleanlove.com
Good Clean Love Almost Naked Organic Personal Lubricant
On an eco-friendly kick? This organic option is free of parabens, glycerin and petrochemicals, plus it’s safe to use with condoms—unlike petroleum jelly, which can degrade the latex, says Dweck.
$ 15 at GoodCleanLove.com
photo: k-y.com
K-Y Brand Jelly
This no-fuss, water-based lube is perfect for increasing your pleasure during sex. “If you find that you’re easily irritated, it’s best to stick with a water-based, simple lubricant and avoid any fragrance or chemicals if possible,” says Dweck.
$ 2.79 at Drugstore.com
photo: astroglide.com
Astroglide Glycerin & Paraben Free
This familiar brand is another great nightstand staple, says Dweck. And since glycerin and parabens may be irritating for some people, this natural option is a smart choice for anyone who’s particularly sensitive to chemicals.
$ 7.99 at Drugstore.com
photo: replens.com
Replens
If chronic dryness is a problem for you, Dweck suggests this moisturizer that’s safe to use every few days. Bonus: it’ll help keep you lubricated long-term, so sex will feel amazing even when you don’t use lube.
$ 17.49 at Drugstore.com
More from Women’s Health:
Troubleshooting Your Vagina
The Best Lube
Personal Lubes for Hotter Sex
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