A Nigerian paediatrician, Abies Ojokojo, has advised women against vaginal douching, a practice that involves washing or cleaning inside the vagina with water or other substances. According to Dr. Ojokojo, who works at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), the vagina has a natural self-cleansing mechanism and does not require the use of soap, cleansing agents, or other substances to clean it. She emphasized that using such products internally can pose health risks.
Dr. Ojokojo recommends that women instead focus on washing the external genital area regularly with clean water. She stresses that water should only be used on the surface and not inside the vagina, and that soap and other cleansing products are unnecessary internally. Additionally, she advises women against inserting tampons or other objects into the body unnecessarily, as this can also lead to health complications.
The paediatrician also provided guidance on menstrual hygiene, encouraging women to use sanitary pads during menstruation and change them regularly. She advises women to ensure that the sanitary products they use are registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control. Furthermore, Dr. Ojokojo recommends that women change into clean underwear daily, wash them properly, and dry them thoroughly, preferably in sunlight.
Dr. Ojokojo also emphasized the importance of replacing underwear when it becomes worn or can no longer be kept clean. She cautions women against attempting to treat unusual vaginal odour themselves, as this could be a sign of an infection that requires medical attention. Instead, she advises women to seek medical help if they notice an unusual odour, as it may need to be treated urgently.
According to Dr. Ojokojo, women can have a natural and unique vaginal odour, which should not automatically be considered abnormal. She also advises women to wipe from front to back after using the toilet to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria from the anal area to the genital area. This practice can help prevent infections and maintain good genital health.
The paediatrician also urges women to use good-quality toilet tissue paper and seek medical attention whenever they notice unusual symptoms rather than attempting to treat themselves. UNICEF recommends changing disposable sanitary pads every four to six hours, depending on menstrual flow. This advice is in line with Dr. Ojokojo's recommendations for good menstrual hygiene practices.
Similar advice is also provided by Cleveland Clinic, a non-profit academic medical centre headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, United States. They recommend changing into clean underwear at least once daily and replacing underwear when it becomes worn or can no longer be kept clean. By following these simple hygiene practices, women can reduce their risk of developing infections and maintain good genital health.
Key points
- Dr. Abies Ojokojo advises women against vaginal douching.
- Women should use sanitary pads during menstruation and change them regularly.
- Women should seek medical attention if they notice unusual vaginal odour or symptoms.
