Box 2.
MECA guidelines on female genital hygiene.58
| • Women of all ages require daily intimate hygiene to keep
their genital area clean. • The vulva is susceptible to contact dermatitis. Take care to avoid contact with irritants. • Use a hypoallergenic liquid wash with mild detergency and pH 4.2 to 5.6. • Avoid bar soaps and bubble baths, which are abrasive and have a more alkaline pH. • Lactic acid–based liquids with an acidic pH may augment skin homeostasis and have been shown to be helpful in vaginal infections as an adjuvant therapy but not as a treatment. • Vaginal douching is not recommended. • Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear and minimize wearing tight clothes. • Change underwear frequently. • Do not use talcum powder. • Use any perfumes and deodorants sparingly (after allergy testing). • Change tampons and sanitary pads frequently. • Before and after intercourse, cleanse the vulva from front to back, especially the clitoris and vulval folds. • Do not cleanse the vulva vigorously or irrigate the vagina. • Use a safe method of pubic hair removal and take care to avoid sensitivity and scarring. • Postpartum care should include frequent cleansing, drying, and using pads as necessary. Maintain dryness over any sutures. Do not use any creams. • Wash hands prior to children’s genital care. Use separate towels. |
MECA: Middle East and Central Asia.