The SMELL Down There: Controling Feminine Odor

A few days ago, I had a conversation with an associate of mine about scents and smells of a woman, and he stressed to me how important is is for women to keep up good hygiene and maintain a fresh smell. He said this was especially important if his lady wanted him to go down on her because bad smells turn him off.  It is because of this conversation that I've decided to write a posting about feminine odor and how to control it.

Feminine odor can cause a bit of insecurity within a woman and damper the mood during sex if the smell is potent and noticed by he partner. Every woman has a natural smell that is normal, but this odor can change with her menstrual cycle, medications she may be taking, the buildup of bacteria or a combination of all these things. When the natural environment of the vagina is compromised and the ph is thrown off, an indication of that change can be a change in odor. Sometimes, women can carry an odor that is due to a build up of moisture and poor ventilation within the labia (lips). It is important to know how you smell naturally because when you have an abnormal odor coupled with a discharge, those can be markers for a condition that may need to be checked by your Gynecologist.

For the changes in feminine odor that aren't linked to a STD or any other medical condition, there are solutions that come right over the counter for keeping things fresh and on the up and up. Here are a few solutions to keep you with that fresh and clean feeling!

FEMININE WIPES/BABY WIPES

Feminine wipes usually come in a small package that can conveniently fit in your purse or makeup back. They are created with a formula that adds moisture to your labia while cleansing bacteria that cause odor. Super useful for the girl on the go! Baby wipes work just as well!

FEMININE SPRAYS

These sprays can be sprayed directly on the labia held a few inches away, or on your underwear to act as a deodorant. They too come in a variety of scents and formulas for sensitive skin.

FEMININE WASH

Summer's Eve sells one of the most widely used feminine washes on the market. They come in a variety scents and formulas for sensitive skin to extra strength. These washes can be used in the shower or in a bath to clean your genitals as well as your entire body if you so desire.  Most of these washes are also water based and hypoallergenic.

BATHING

There is nothing more cleansing for your vagina than a nice, warm bath! Submerging yourself in water and allowing it to cleanse your vagina is suggested by gynecologists over using a douche. Water has a natural pH so it won't change the pH levels of your vagina. Light some candles, put on some soft music and relax as you cleanse.

WEARING COTTON UNDERWEAR

Cotton is a very breathable fabric that allows air to travel to the skin of the person wearing a garment made from it.  It is also a fabric that has the ability to absorb moisture, so cotton underwear will do a good job at controlling the moisture of your feminine parts as well as giving your genitals some fresh air.

Every woman is made differently, so make sure you choose an option that is right for you. Some of these products have been linked to being one of the causes of the STI BV, so be careful not to overuse these products; they can disrupt the natural pH of your vagina. Be aware of your body and the things that may trigger irritation in your V zone. The skin in this area is some of the most sensitive skin on your body, so care for it properly!