Actual 'truth' behind how to wash 'down there' properly
As the debate drones on over how often and with what tools ladies 'should' be cleaning their nether-regions, one Reddit user has compiled a handy guide in a bid to stop women and girls from being shamed for their shower habits.
The conflicting tale over supposedly 'correct' feminine hygiene is one as old as time, with countless experts chiming in on the discussion left, right and centre.
What one doctor advises when it comes to self-cleaning is ruthlessly slammed by one feminine freshness firm.
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And what another TikTok-using gynaecologist recommends sees her followers branded unclean by judgemental users.
Accusations about nasty smells, a supposed increase of thrush risk, scare-mongering infections and allegedly painful downstairs rashes are leaving ladies across the globe baffled.
To put it bluntly - when it comes to being a 21st century woman hoping to look after her body by the best means necessary, there's simply no way to win.
Such is the heartbreaking endured by one Reddit user, who took to the advice forum this week in a bid to show support to her fellow confused girlies.
"I have recently seen women being downvoted, shamed and insulted in this group for using just water to clean their vulva," she recently wrote.
"It is wrong to shame people, especially if they are not doing anything wrong or giving poor advice. I am hoping this will educate some people and curb the shaming and insults."
It was then that she proceeded to link some expert opinions on the matter.
One firm she name-dropped was Bloom OB/GYN, who claim that 'regular, gentle bathing on the outside of the vagina' - using water, the 'best cleaner' - is the correct way to feel completely clean in your genital area without compromising your health.
She also gave a special shout-out to Healthline, who agree with the initial advice, adding that cleaning of the outside of the vagina should include your vulva.
"Keep it simple and stick with basic water," their experts say. "But skip any fad regimens you may have heard about."
Adding to the already helpful and safe advice, the Reddit user also credited Dr Regina White from Mind Body Green, who gave more detailed instructions on why cleaning the vulva in particular is super vital.
"The way in which you should wash your vulva is starkly different from how you'd cleanse your face or your body, as it's highly sensitive," she explained, adding that you can either use water and a washcloth, or a specially formulated cleanser with no artificial fragrances or chemicals.
This particular advice was also seconded by Medical News Today, who added that only 'mild, unscented soap' should be used if preferred to wash down there, but that water is undoubtedly the safest option.
"Afterward, they should rinse the vulva thoroughly and then pat the area dry," the experts continued.
And by the sounds of things, the list of handy hacks has gone down a treat with readers.
"Yes! It's so important to spread the right info about vulva care!" one penned in the Reddit post's comments.
"Using just water is totally valid and a lot of experts say the same. Shaming people for their choices isn't cool—everyone's body is different, and we should support each other instead!"
Another spoke of women-shamers, hitting out: "They want people to feel bad and accuse them of grossness and stank!
"I’ve had several doctors tell me everything these links discuss. Less is more. Don’t scrub. Very mild/gentle soaps if you must. Very sensitive."
The NHS also urge women to not use soaps, deodorants, bubble baths or vaginal wipes in or around the vulval region.
So, there you have it.
Rhianna Benson