Before you reach for another wipe, spray or scented wash, experts reveal the common mistakes women make with intimate care – and the simple feminine hygiene swaps that actually support your health.
There’s no easy way to say it, so we’ll just come out with it: your vagina is a self-cleaning genius.
But walk down the feminine care aisle and you’d think it needs an army of gels, wipes, sprays and foams just to function.
Spoiler: It doesn’t.
In fact, a lot of those so-called ‘intimate care’ products could be doing more harm than good – messing with your natural balance, causing irritation and, well, generally throwing off your vibe.
Here’s what you need to know about feminine hygiene products, plus the one thing should never use (seriously).
1. Vaginal washes and soaps
The claim: A special wash will keep you extra clean and fresh.
The reality: Your vagina is perfectly capable of cleaning itself, no extra soap needed.
“The tissue in this area is much more sensitive and delicate than the skin on your arm, and the chemicals that give products their scent can be abrasive and damaging,” women’s health microbiologist Professor Willa Huston, of the University of Technology Sydney, says.
Damaged tissue can make it easier for unwanted microorganisms to sneak in – not ideal.
The bottom line: If you must use soap, choose a mild, unscented one and only wash the external area (the vulva), not internally.
2. Feminine wipes
The claim: They’re perfect for a quick freshen-up.
The reality: Some wipes can disrupt your natural pH balance and irritate the delicate skin down there.
“Some products can irritate the delicate tissues, changing the pH and reducing the population of beneficial bacteria. This increases the risk of infections,” Jean Hailes for Women’s Health gynaecologist Dr Pav Nanayakkara says.
The bottom line: Emergency-only vibes – look for fragrance-free, pH-balanced wipes if you really need them, and skip them for daily use.
3. Vaginal deodorants and sprays
The claim: Keep things smelling tropical and fresh.
The reality: Your vagina isn’t supposed to smell like a coconut smoothie.
Fragrance chemicals can irritate sensitive tissue and mask important signs that something might actually need medical attention (for example, an infection).
The bottom line: Trust your natural scent. If you notice a persistent odour, it's time to see a GP – not reach for a spray.
4. Douching
The claim: An internal rinse keeps you extra clean.
The reality: Douching is officially a bad idea.
“There’s no evidence that douching works and it may well make things worse,” Prof Huston says.
“I’ve even seen posts online suggesting women douche with Coca-Cola to get rid of itchiness or odour – and that’s definitely not recommended!”
Douching can strip away healthy bacteria, mess with your microbiome and increase your risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis.
The bottom line: It’s a hard no. Your vagina has its own cleaning crew – let it do its thing.
5. Talc powders
The claim: Stay dry and fresh.
The reality: Talc powders have been linked (though not conclusively) to an increased risk of ovarian cancer when used in the genital area.
The World Health Organization even lists talc as a possible carcinogen.
The bottom line: Experts recommend avoiding talc-based products down there altogether. Your vibe is better off without them.
6. Vaginal creams and moisturisers
The claim: Relieve dryness and itching.
The reality: These types of products can genuinely help if you’re experiencing dryness, particularly due to hormonal changes during menopause.
However, you’ll want to choose products designed specifically for intimate use and without harsh chemicals.
The bottom line: Stick to hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products – and when in doubt, check with your doctor.
7. Menstrual products (tampons, pads, cups)
The claim: Keep you clean and dry during your period.
The reality: Menstrual products themselves are fine, but bad habits such as leaving a tampon in too long can tip the balance of your microbiome.
Fragrance-added products can also irritate sensitive tissue.
The bottom line: Change tampons or pads every 4-6 hours, opt for unscented products, and clean your menstrual cup properly after each use.
So, what do you actually need?
Less is more when it comes to your V-microbiome.
“Your vagina is self-maintaining and any routine care should be as gentle and minimal as possible,” Dr Nanayakkara says.
For gentle ‘down there’ care:
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- Wash with warm water
- Wear cotton underwear
- Use only gentle, unscented hygiene products (and only if truly needed)
- Call your doctor if something feels off
“If something doesn’t feel right – like a persistent odour, unusual discharge, or pelvic pain – see a doctor who can ensure any underlying issue is identified and treated appropriately,” Dr Nanayakkara says.
Trust your body, protect your vibe and step away from the douches – which applies to all aspects of life, really.
