Edited by Dr. Valeria Ascione, pharmacist.
Intimate hygiene works by subtraction, not by addition. You need a External cleansing, on the vulva only, once or twice a day, with a soap-free, fragrance-free cleanser. Nothing else: no internal douching, no scented products, no repeated washing. Most intimate health issues stem from excessive hygiene, not from a lack of it.
The cleanser is used exclusively on the vulva, the external area. Inside, in the vaginal canal, there is an ecosystem of lactobacilli that maintains the acidic environment on its own: the cleanser does not come into contact with it and is not intended to interfere with that balance. Understanding this distinction makes all the practical choices that follow obvious.
In short
- The Environment vaginal (inside) is acidic because of the lactobacilli, which produce lactic acid and keep other microorganisms in check.
- The vagina cleans itself. The cleanser is to be used only on the vulva—that is, the external area—and nothing, including the product itself, should be inserted inside.
- Le Internal douches increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis: They are the only hygiene practice that actually comes into contact with lactobacilli and removes them.
- A suitable detergent is soap-free, fragrance-free and with a pH level suited to the skin of the vulva. It doesn't need to be antibacterial.
- A a strong, fishy odor, with grayish or watery discharge It can't be resolved through hygiene alone: it's a symptom that needs to be evaluated.
Why is the vaginal environment acidic?
The vaginal flora is dominated by lactobacilli, bacteria that convert glycogen in the cells of the mucosa into lactic acid. This is what maintains the pH between 3.5 and 4.5, an acidic level that makes the environment inhospitable to most potentially problematic microorganisms. Some species also produce hydrogen peroxide, providing an additional control mechanism.
So it's not a matter of cleanliness: it's a ecosystem inside, and like all ecosystems, it functions best when left undisturbed.
This explains why intimate hygiene is one of the few areas of personal care where doing more actually worsens the outcome. Products that come into direct contact with the vaginal environment—internal douches, fingers, or applicators used to insert substances—can raise the pH and reduce lactobacilli. A cleanser used correctly—that is, only on the vulva—does not reach that environment: the risk, in that case, concerns the external skin, if anything, not the internal vaginal flora.
What is the difference between the vulva and the vagina?
La vulva It's the external part—the labia majora and minora and the surrounding area—and it's skin: you wash it. The vagina It is the internal canal; it is lined with mucous membrane, has its own natural balance of lactobacilli, and cleans itself through physiological secretions. Intimate cleansers act only on the vulva: they do not enter—and should not enter—the vagina.
When we talk about intimate cleansers, we are always referring to a product for external use. Vaginal secretions are not dirt: they are the body’s way of keeping the internal mucous membrane clean and moisturized, regardless of any cleanser used externally.
The Most Common Misconception
Many people wash more frequently or switch to harsher products as soon as they notice discomfort. That’s precisely when they should do the opposite: vulvar skin that’s already irritated needs less stimulation, not more. If the discomfort persists, the next step isn’t to change your cleanser but to talk to a doctor.
What affects vaginal pH?
The most common causes are vaginal douches, unsuitable soaps used on the vulva, scented products, and hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. Most of these are preventable; hormonal changes are not.
- Internal rinses. They are the leading preventable cause, and the only common practice that introduces a product directly into the vaginal environment. They remove lactobacilli and raise the pH: the’U.S. Office on Women's Health It advises against its use, which is associated with an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis and other complications.
- Common Soaps and Body Washes used on the vulva. Their pH levels and surfactants are formulated for the skin on the rest of the body, not for that area: they can irritate the outer skin, but they do not come into contact with the internal vaginal environment.
- Scented products and regularly used intimate wipes: the fragrance is the primary cause of vulvar skin sensitization.
- Panty liners used continuously, which trap moisture and heat when in contact with the vulva.
- Antibiotic Treatments, which also reduce beneficial bacteria—including lactobacilli—systemically.
- Hormonal Changes: The menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause affect the amount of available glycogen and, consequently, the activity of lactobacilli.
- Synthetic, form-fitting clothing worn for long periods, especially after exercising, which create a warm, moist environment on the vulva.
How do you choose an intimate wash?
There are only a few criteria, and you can check them all on the label: soap-free, fragrance-free, and made with mild surfactants.
| Criterion | Why | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Soap-free | Traditional soaps are alkaline and raise the pH of the vulvar skin | Essential |
| Fragrance-free | Fragrances are the most common cause of contact irritation | Essential |
| Mild surfactants | They cleanse without removing the skin's protective outer layer | Essential |
| The term “antibacterial” | It is not intended for external use only, and it is not free of side effects | Avoid |
| Intense foaming effect | Does not indicate effectiveness: it often indicates more aggressive surfactants | Irrelevant |
On the pH of the product It’s worth noting something you rarely read: the ideal pH level is not the same as that of the vagina. The cleanser acts exclusively on the vulva—the outer skin—and does not come into contact with the inner vaginal mucosa where lactobacilli live; the vulva has a slightly higher pH than the inner mucosa. A cleanser that is too acidic isn’t automatically more physiologically appropriate. If the manufacturer states the pH value, that’s already a good sign: it means they’ve measured it.
The "how" is just as important as the "what": external use only, using your hands, lukewarm water, once or twice a day, and dry thoroughly by patting. Do not use sponges or gloves, as they harbor bacteria.
When is vaginal odor normal, and when isn't it?
A natural odor is normal and not a problem: it changes during your period, after physical activity, and depending on your diet. Vaginal discharge is also a normal part of your body and varies in amount and consistency throughout the month.
It becomes a sign when it changes in a clear and persistent way.
When It's Time to Make an Appearance
A strong odor, typically described as “fishy,” which is often more pronounced after sexual intercourse. A watery discharge, grayish or whitish in color, that is different from usual. Persistent itching or burning. These are symptoms consistent with a bacterial vaginosis, a common condition in which lactobacilli decrease and the pH rises above 4.5. It is treated with medication, not with hygiene measures.
An intimate deodorant does not resolve an unusual odor. A deodorant product is designed to maintain the vulva’s daily freshness under normal conditions: it has no effect on lactobacilli or the internal vaginal balance. If the odor has changed noticeably and persists, masking it merely delays a diagnosis—it does not solve the problem.
In our intimate wellness line You’ll find products designed for the vulva’s daily comfort, and that’s exactly where a cosmetic product makes sense: to maintain, not to treat.
What Should You Avoid in Your Daily Intimate Hygiene Routine?
In order of importance: unprescribed vaginal washes, washing too frequently, scented products, and underwear that doesn't allow the skin to breathe. These are the five most common habits that contribute to a self-perpetuating intimate discomfort.
- Over-the-counter vaginal douches. If one has been prescribed for you, follow it; otherwise, avoid it.
- Frequent washing. Excessively frequent use may actually cause irritation of the vulvar skin rather than prevent it.
- Scented products, including wipes and deodorants used to mask an unusual odor.
- Daily panty liners other than on the days they're needed.
- Synthetic Linen worn for a long time, and workout clothes that aren't changed immediately after exercise.
- Repeated self-diagnoses: Treating a recurring condition on your own is a common way to make it chronic.
In summary
Intimate balance is maintained by leaving it alone. A gentle, soap-free, fragrance-free cleanser, used only on the vulva once or twice a day, and underwear that allows the skin to breathe. Internal douching is the only practice that truly comes into contact with the lactobacilli environment and should be avoided unless prescribed; everything else—harsh products, scented items, or overly frequent washing—affects the outer skin but can still cause irritation and indirectly compromise the area’s comfort.
And when something really changes—a new, lingering odor, or discharge that’s different from usual—the right choice is to see a doctor, not to use a stronger product.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times a day should you practice intimate hygiene?
Once or twice a day is sufficient—use only lukewarm water and wash the external area only. Washing more frequently removes the protective layer of the vulvar skin and can cause irritation. During your period or after physical activity, you can wash once more, but don’t overdo it.
Are internal douches effective?
No, unless they have been prescribed. They remove the lactobacilli that maintain an acidic pH and are associated with an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis. The vagina cleans itself through natural secretions.
What is the correct pH level for an intimate cleanser?
The cleanser is used on the vulva, which is skin and has a pH slightly higher than that of the vagina, ranging from 3.5 to 4.5. Therefore, you don’t need the most acidic product available: you need a product with a pH suitable for the external area, that is soap-free and fragrance-free.
Is an antibacterial cleanser safer?
No. Antibacterial action does not distinguish between beneficial and harmful bacteria. Even if the cleanser is used only on the vulva, a product that is too harsh near the vaginal opening can still disrupt the surrounding environment without providing any real benefits. Daily hygiene calls for gentleness, not strength.
Is vaginal odor normal?
Yes, there is an odor, and it varies throughout the menstrual cycle, after exercise, or depending on diet. It becomes a warning sign when it changes noticeably, is intense, and has a “fishy” smell—especially if accompanied by grayish or watery discharge: in that case, a medical evaluation is necessary.
Can an intimate deodorant get rid of an unpleasant odor?
No. A cosmetic deodorant is designed to provide daily freshness under normal conditions. If the odor has noticeably changed and persists, masking it will only delay the identification of the cause, which should be evaluated by a doctor.
Can antibiotics disrupt the vaginal balance?
Yes. A course of antibiotics also reduces beneficial bacteria, including lactobacilli, and the balance may be temporarily disrupted afterward. If symptoms appear during or after treatment, talk to the doctor who prescribed it.
Does intimate cleanser come into contact with vaginal lactobacilli?
No, if used correctly. The cleanser should be applied only to the vulva, the external area; lactobacilli live in the inner vaginal canal, which is not reached by external washing and is maintained by the body’s own natural secretions.
Can you shower during your period?
Yes, and it’s recommended: an extra external wash per day can help with comfort. The same general rule applies: wash only the vulva, using a mild cleanser, without washing too frequently or using internal products such as tampons soaked in cleanser or vaginal washes.
Should you switch your feminine hygiene products during pregnancy?
Not necessarily: the criteria remain the same—soap-free and fragrance-free. During pregnancy, however, hormonal changes can make the vulvar skin more sensitive or temporarily alter secretions: if new symptoms appear, you should consult your gynecologist rather than changing products at random.
Does the recommended washing schedule change with age?
The basic guidelines remain the same at any age: use a mild cleanser, apply it only to the vulva, and do so once or twice a day. During menopause, the vulvar mucosa tends to be thinner and drier, so an even milder cleanser and the use of a specific external moisturizer may be helpful.