LAGOS – A gynaecologist, Dr Dayo Ajayi of the Cavalry Medical Hospital in Ayobo, near Lagos has advised women to desist from vaginal douching to curb the risk of infection.
Ajayi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday that “the vagina has its natural bacteria that protect it from infection,’’ adding that douching could remove the bacteria.
According to him, douching is the washing out of the vagina or putting inappropriate object into the vagina to make it clean.
“Bacteria live harmlessly inside the vagina and are normally kept under control, douching washes away healthy bacteria and that always results to infection.
“Some women douche their vagina for hygiene purposes but some of the douche sprays, fragrances or other substances contain chemicals that are harmful to the vagina.
“Women should stop douching as the vagina can clean itself naturally; it has good bacteria that keep it clean and healthy.
“Douching can increase the risk of miscarriage in pregnancy, infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease.”
He said that douching can spread infection from the vagina into the womb and fallopian tube which might lead to complications in pregnancy or other health problems.
The medical practitioner said that women who experienced vaginal discharge, painful sex, irregular menstruation, itching and painful urination might have an infection and should seek medical assistance.
Ajayi advised women to only use water to clean the outer area of the vagina.
“Rinse the vagina with water only, avoid soap, hygiene sprays or powder in the genital area.
“Avoid wearing extremely tight fitting pant or short; it prevents natural ventilation, wear cotton underwear.”
He advised women, having infection to also take their husbands along for treatment. (NAN)
