Introduction
The vagina is one of the body parts that have many myths and misconceptions about its pride. It is shrouded with whispered rumors. The lack of information and the spread of myths has increased misinformation about the female reproductive organ. While some are harmless, some condemn women if the lady bits do not appear or smell great. Hence, it is important to separate facts from myths. Moreover, a general awareness of these topics is essential.
What Are the Myths Associated With Vagina?
The amount of misinformation spread around the globe and how much of it is fed into the hearts of the people can cause many dangers and be harmful. These myths' main topic is female hygiene and purity or virginity. Some of the common myths are:
-
The Vagina Needs to Be Cleaned With Special Products: This is the most commonly spread myth about the vagina. The main reason is that the vagina is considered a very gross place, and daily cleansers should not be used over the area. The manufacturers of female hygiene products exploit this. They promote that these gross lady bits must be scrubbed off their natural odor with perfumes, douches, washes, and wipes. However, the truth is that the vagina is a self-cleansing area- it is designed by nature to clean itself. In fact, using such harsh products in this sensitive area can cause more harm than good. The use of these chemicals disturbs the natural flora of microbes in the vagina, paving the way for many infections. Moreover, they can cause irritation and itching, especially for beginners, leading to many bacterial and yeast infections. The external genitalia or the vulva can be cleaned using mild soap and water. Anything more can cause harm to the natural microbes in the area.
-
Menstrual Cups or Tampons Can Become Lost in the Body: This is another widely spread misconception about using menstrual cups or tampons. This is not the fact technically. The cervix is a very small opening to accidentally let the tampon or menstrual cup go in. However, many women forget about an inserted tampon and later find difficulties in getting it out. This is because the tampon would have gone deeper while its string would still be available superficially. Panic causes them not to identify this, causing all the hungama. Some women remember the inserted tampon after a few days with the rotten smell it produces. Studies show that many women often forget about the tampon in them and consult the physician regarding the strong odor of 'unknown origin.'
-
A Yeast Infection Can Be Cured Using Garlic or Yoghurt: Online media and other ancient folktales insist on using natural remedies like garlic and yogurt to cure yeast infections. The use of yogurt can help manage or relieve yeast infection symptoms. However, it is not a cure but can worsen the infection, providing a source for the yeast to feed on. The overgrowth of a fungus called Candida causes yeast infections in the vagina. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), an antifungal medication is an effective treatment.
-
An Itch Down There Is Always Due to an Infection: Some women believe an itch in their vaginal area is due to a yeast infection. But this might not be the cause. It could also be due to hormonal changes, bacterial vaginosis, public lice, a sexually transmitted disease (STD) called trichomoniasis, or just an irritation due to some female hygiene product used. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends seeking medical advice before using over-the-counter drugs.
-
The Vagina Should Have a Pleasant Fruity Smell: An ancient myth regarding the vagina is regarding its smell. In addition, this is flattered by manufacturers of female intimate products. They claim and make it normal that the vagina should smell pleasant. Nevertheless, the vagina has natural microbes, making it feel musky. The vagina should smell regular, not like a flower. Cleaning the female intimate area with harsh chemicals can disrupt the normal flora, resulting in bacterial and yeast infections.
-
Vaginal Discharges Are Never a Good Thing: The glands in the vagina and the cervix cause vaginal discharges. These discharges are small fluids called vaginal secretions, a completely natural process. It flows out from the vagina, cleansing the old cells lining the vagina. This is the body's way of keeping the vagina clean and healthy. The vaginal discharge gives an idea of the imbalance in the vaginal flora. Any unusual discharge can indicate something unhealthy and require a medical consultation.
-
The Pubic Hair Must Be Removed in Order to Clean the Vagina: Another misconception is about pubic hair. The vagina is shielded from pheromones and dangerous bacteria by the pubic hair. The first line of defense against invaders that might lead to itching, irritability, and infections is pubic hair. It needs to be trimmed and maintained neatly to prevent infections.
What Are the Myths Associated With Vagina in Sexual Intercourse?
-
Orgasm in Females Can Be Achieved Only by Vaginal Penetration: Some people misunderstand that orgasm can be gained only by vaginal penetration. However, this is not so. The real fact is that vaginal penetration does not cause even a slight trace of orgasm in females. Foreplay and masturbation can help a female to get orgasm.
-
An Intact Hymen Is an Indicator of Virginity: This is a misconception that has existed for ages unknown. An intact hymen, or bleeding on a sexual encounter after marriage, is considered a sign of purity in many places and is still considered to be true! However, women in the modern era engage in all kinds of activities, from horse riding to trekking, and have a higher chance of rupturing their hymen. Hence, such myths should no longer exist.
-
A Loose Vagina Is Due to Frequent Sex: Another common misconception about the vagina is its elasticity. It is considered that frequent engagement in sexual encounters can make the vagina loose. However, this is not true. The foreplay lubricates the vagina, causing it to expand and accommodate. It is elastic and resilient because of the presence of rugae. The rugae, along with its rich blood and nerve supply, helps the vagina distend and return to its previous normal state.
Conclusion
Myths about the vagina are always a topic misunderstood. Some myths have gained so much attention that even educated women find it hard to know what to believe and what not to believe. These can be cleared only through open communication and proper education. General awareness can reduce the spread of such myths to an extent.
