WHY USING SOAP INSIDE THE VAGINA CAN DO MORE HARM THAN GOOD
By Anamati Inyang- December 6, 2025
Many women in Nigeria grow up hearing different advice about how to wash the vagina. Some are told to use strong soaps, scented liquids or even home made mixtures. Others believe the area must be scrubbed to smell fresh. While these ideas are popular, they are not medically safe.
This article explains what every woman needs to know about vaginal hygiene and why gentle care is always the best choice.
“Soft organs should be treated softly”
THE VAGINA CLEANS ITSELF NATURALLY
The vagina is a self-cleaning organ.
It produces natural fluids that wash away bacteria and keep the body protected.
These fluids maintain the right balance needed to prevent infections.
Using soap inside the vagina breaks this balance. It can cause itching, burning, unusual discharge and recurring infections.
USE SOAP ONLY ON THE OUTER AREA
Doctors recommend using mild unscented soap only on the outer part of the genital area known as the vulva. This includes the pubic region and the folds of skin outside the vagina.
Soap should never be inserted into the vagina. The chemicals in soap can irritate delicate tissues and remove the helpful bacteria that protect the body.
WHY SCENTED PRODUCTS ARE RISKY
Perfumed soaps and body washes may smell nice but they contain chemicals that can easily irritate sensitive skin. Alcohols and artificial fragrances often cause dryness, rashes and discomfort.
Unscented gentle soap is always a safer option.
AVOID HARSH TRADITIONAL MIXTURES
Across different communities some women use alum, salt water, antiseptic liquids or other local mixtures for vaginal cleansing. These practices may be traditional but they are unsafe and can lead to long term health problems.
Warm water and mild soap on the outer area remain the safest method.
SAFE HYGIENE PRACTICES EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW
Wash the outer area daily with mild unscented soap
Rinse well with clean water
Wear cotton underwear to keep the area dry
Change underwear every day
Avoid tight clothing that traps heat and moisture
Do not insert soap or cleansing products into the vagina
WHEN TO SEE A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL
Seek medical help if there is persistent itching, pain, strong odour, discomfort or unusual discharge. Most issues are easy to treat when addressed early.
A MESSAGE TO NIGERIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS
Good hygiene is essential, but it must be done safely. The vagina is designed to care for itself. It does not need harsh soap or aggressive cleaning. Understanding this helps prevent infections and supports long term reproductive health.
Every woman deserves to feel clean, confident and comfortable without harming her body.
