Intimate Washes: Harmful or Helpful? Experts Warn Against Disrupting Natural Microbiome

• Experts caution that 'intimate' wash products, even mild ones, can disrupt the natural microbiome of the female genital tract, increasing infection risks.
• The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, with beneficial bacteria maintaining a healthy pH balance to prevent harmful germ growth.
• External cleansing solutions may cause more harm than good, leading to bacterial vaginosis, dryness, itching, irritation, and yeast infections.
• Plain water is generally sufficient for cleaning the external genital area; intimate wash usage should be limited and approached with caution.
• The desire for perfumed scents often drives intimate wash use, influenced by societal expectations rather than medical necessity.

Why It Matters: Intimate wash products can disrupt natural vaginal health; plain water is usually sufficient for hygiene.