"That there is a wide range of normal genitalia and the appearance varies from woman to woman. Knowing your normal is the first step,” Dr Mpume Zenda aka Dr Gyae, an Obstetrician - Gynaecologist and Sexologist, says.
The first step to ‘knowing your normal’ is understanding the structure of your vagina. The external female genital area is called the vulva. The outer folds of skin are called the labia majora, and the inner folds are called the labia minora. Within the labia minora is the vestibule. The vagina and urethra open into the vestibule.
Important facts about your vulva and vagina
The vagina is self-cleansing and is never meant to be dry. At puberty, the vagina begins to produce discharge. “About 2-5 ml is usually the norm. It is mostly water and also contains microorganisms. The discharge naturally keeps the genital area clean and healthy by removing dead cells from the lining of the vagina,” says Dr Zenda.
The amount, colour and consistency of normal discharge changes throughout the menstrual cycle. It might be brownish or straw-coloured after menstruation, clear and sticky around ovulation (mid cycle), and a milkier white from ovulation to just before your next period.
“Oestrogen helps keep the vaginal lining thick and supple, and encourages the growth of good bacteria called lactobacilli. The natural acidity of the vagina helps keep yeast and other microorganisms from growing out of control. Overgrowth of unhealthy microorganisms may lead to common vaginal infections including yeast or fungal infection, bacterial vaginosis, and urinary tract infections,” Dr Zenda explains.
Unhealthy signs to look out for and seek medical attention if you notice them:
- Lumps and bumps
- Change in the amount, smell, and colour of your vaginal discharge
- Persistent itching, inflammation or a burning sensation
- Frequent, painful urination
- Bleeding outside of menstruation, or after intercourse
- Painful intercourse
How to care for your vulva and vagina
Here are Dr Zenda’s top tips:
General hygiene
- Use your hands to clean your vulva.
- Use mild soaps and dry well after a bath or shower.
- Wear cotton-lined underwear.
- Change out of sweaty or wet clothing as soon as possible after exercise.
- Wipe from front to back.
For sexual health
- Use water-based lubricants.
- Get checked for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) each year or before changing sexual partners.
- Get vaccinated against the human papillomavirus (HPV).
For vulva hair removal
- Use a fresh razor each time you shave.
- Wash with mild soap and water before and after shaving.
- Talk to your doctor if you are thinking about getting a genital piercing.
How to prevent vulva/vaginal irritation and pH (acidity) imbalance
- Avoid heavily scented shower gels or soaps.
- Avoid cleaning inside the vagina, douching, yoni steaming.
- Avoid rubbing the area dry.
- Don’t use 'feminine' sprays, perfumes and deodorants on your vulva.
- Avoid wearing underwear when sleeping.
- Avoid wearing tight, synthetic clothing.
- Empty your bladder and freshen up after intercourse.
- Avoid sexual intercourse until any genital irritation has passed.
And when using feminine hygiene products:
- Less is not only more, it is also great for your vaginal ecosystem and pocket.
- Use only when necessary – during menstruation, or when travelling or working long hours, as part of your emergency kit.
- The less floral or scented, the better.
- No douching or steaming – when in doubt, use water!
IMAGE CREDIT: 123rf.com