Essential Feminine Hygiene Practices and Products

Feminine hygiene involves maintaining cleanliness and care of the female genital region, including practices for menstrual hygiene and prevention of infections. Using suitable feminine care products is important for overall vaginal health.

Feminine Hygiene FAQ

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What is feminine hygiene?

Feminine hygiene, a.k.a. feminine care, vaginal wellness, feminine wellness, and vaginal care, is the process of taking routine care of the genitals and surrounding areas. There are two types of feminine hygiene – internal and external.

What are the different types of feminine hygiene?

There are two types of feminine hygiene – internal and external. You don’t need to worry about the internal bit, or vagina, as women are naturally gifted with a self-cleaning system.

What are feminine hygiene products?

Feminine hygiene products are personal care products used during menstruation, vaginal discharge, and other bodily functions related to the vulva and vagina. Products that are used during menstruation may also be called menstrual hygiene products, including menstrual pads, tampons, pantyliners, menstrual cups, menstrual sponges and period panties.

What does “feminine hygiene” really mean?

As it’s primarily used, “feminine hygiene” doesn’t really mean anything. It’s nothing more than a marketing ploy. One that’s based in transphobic, misogynistic values designed to make cisgender women feel ashamed of their genitals, and therefore buy so-called feminine hygiene products.

Why is 'feminine hygiene' so important?

“While the phrase ‘feminine hygiene’ is often used to make people with vaginas feel dirty, the goal of the phrase is recognizing the unique qualities of the parts that make up the vulva and the vaginal canal,” explains Felice Gersh, MD, author of “ PCOS SOS: A Gynecologist’s Lifeline to Naturally Restore Your Rhythms, Hormones, and Happiness .”