Use soft, white, non-recycled, unscented toilet paper and 100% cotton pads or tampons.
Avoid using scented products such as bubble bath, feminine hygiene products (pads or tampons), creams, or soaps that come into contact with the vulvar region.
Avoid using feminine deodorant sprays, Vaseline®, and colored soaps in the vulvar area, and avoid douching unless recommended by your physician.
When you shower/bathe, do not use soap until the very end, and avoid applying it directly to the vulva. Use mild soaps such as Dove®, and avoid getting shampoo on the vulvar area.
Wash the vulva with cool to lukewarm water with your hand. Pat your vulvar area dry, do not rub. Do not use soap, wash cloths, or loofahs on the vulva; these can dry out and /or irritate the sensitive vulvar skin.
Many women wash the vulva too often which can further irritate the area once a day is enough.
Avoid shaving the vulvar area.
Keeping the vulvar area dry is important; if you are chronically damp, keep an extra pair of underwear with you in a small bag and change if you become damp during the day at school/work.
If you suffer from repeated vaginal infections, avoid using over-the-counter creams which might irritate the sensitive vulvar skin. Instead, discuss with your doctor the option of a systemic, oral medication (e.g., Diflucan®). It is important to visit your doctor for an examination when you suspect you have an infection; self-diagnosis and treatment without confirmation may lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment that can cause more harm than benefit to your vulva.
