Intimate health and hygiene is crucial, especially for women, as they are more prone to infections and irritation. There are several effective ways to keep the area clean, but wet wipes are the last thing you would want to consider.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Pallavi Panse, Consultant—Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune, says that marketers are tricking women into believing that dry toilet paper is ineffective. "They believe that using pre-moistened wipes will make women feel better, fresher, and more sexy." However, that isn't the case, and here's why...
Also Read: Why Women Notice Changes In Vaginal Odour During Ovulation
Why People Should Avoid Using Wet Wipes For Intimate Hygiene?
“Wipes are being marketed as the superior alternative for women's health and happiness, with claims of "freshness," "confident clean," and, yes, "odour control." However, wipes may be causing more damage than good,” notes Dr Panse.
According to Medical News Today, the use of intimate wipes was also tied with a twofold risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).
Dr Panse explains that common symptoms associated with the use of wet wipes for intimate hygiene include itching, burning, irritation, allergic reactions, and even bleeding rashes. She adds that there have been numerous reports of urinary tract infections linked to their use. "Many women initially turn to wipes to relieve discomfort, only to find that they actually worsen the problem," she says.
How Do Wet Wipes Affect Intimate Areas?
Intimate wipes frequently include significant quantities of lactic acid and other substances that are not very vaginal-friendly, according to Dr Panse, who adds that they disturb normal pH levels when cleaning, causing a slew of problems.
“Because of the presence of chemicals and parabens, intimate wipes increase the risk of bacterial infections by 3.5 times and urinary tract infections by double. These disrupt the vaginal balance and frequently cause more harm than benefit,” she explains further.
What Are Safer Alternatives To Maintain Intimate Hygiene Without Causing Irritation or Infections?
Maintaining good intimate health is simple with a few key habits; this does not include using wet wipes, but:
- Wearing breathable cotton underwear and avoiding synthetic fabrics that trap moisture
- Changing out of wet swimwear quickly to prevent infections
- Always wiping from front to back
- Using soft, unscented toilet paper
- Washing before and after sex to reduce bacteria
- Avoid douching and scented products, as they disrupt the natural balance.
- Using a mild, pH-balanced intimate wash with lukewarm water
- Being mindful of excessive hair removal, as pubic hair offers protection
How Can People With Sensitive Skin Or Conditions Like UTIs Protect Themselves?
For those with sensitive skin or people with a higher risk of UTIs and yeast infections, Dr Panse advises:
- Wipe in the proper direction, front to back.
- Before wiping or cleaning with washcloths, tissues, or toilet paper, thoroughly cleanse your hands.
- Use a clean, soft liquid soap instead of bar soap.
- Wipe only once with each washcloth or tissue.
- When washing, start with the bladder to prevent bacteria from spreading to other regions of the body.
- Only use these washcloths to clean the region surrounding the urethra.
- Drink more water and take vitamin C.
- Consume cranberry juice or cranberry tablets.
Conclusion
While wet wipes may seem like a great option for intimate hygiene, they often do more harm than good. Not only do they disrupt the natural pH balance, but they also increase the risk of infections and cause irritation. Dr Pallavi Panse emphasises that maintaining intimate health does not require chemical-laden products but rather simple, effective hygiene practices such as wearing breathable fabrics, using mild cleansers, and staying hydrated. By making good choices and following expert-backed hygiene habits, women can protect their intimate health without unnecessary risks.