“Insert your finger and wash inside properly.”

If anyone has ever given you this advice, please do not follow it.

The vulva is the outside area. Wash it gently with lukewarm water. If needed, use a small amount of mild, fragrance-free soap.

The vagina is the passage inside your body. It cleans itself naturally, and its protective bacteria help keep it healthy. Fingers, soap, antiseptics, douches and homemade mixtures do not belong inside it for cleaning.

Washing inside may disturb the natural balance, cause irritation and increase the likelihood of infection. Douching also does not prevent pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections.

If you notice a new odour, changed discharge, itching, burning, swelling or pain, get checked instead of washing more deeply.

Clean the outside gently. Leave the inside alone.